Choosing the Best Insulating Duct Materials for Your Air Ducts

Metal air ducts
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Insulating ducts can be quite a challenge if you are unaware of the different types of air ducts and insulation that exist. You will need to do your homework and understand that each job is different. Each job may require a different form of insulation. You don't want to end up with the wrong type of insulation for your air ducts.

Fiberglass Duct Board

The fiberglass duct board is by far the most effective. You can find formaldehyde-free insulation that also has an acrylic coating. This coating will help to keep the glass fibers from your airstream and excess noise from your home. You will also be able to enjoy a higher air quality.

This type of duct will be a little bit more expensive to install, so it is not the most popular method. You will need to keep in mind you may have to pay a little more than you want in order to get your home filled with clean air and free of unwanted noise.

Sheet Metal Ducts

Metal ductwork

Uninsulated rectangular ducts, also known as sheet metal ducts, are the most popular type. While they are inexpensive to install, they are not very effective. They allow excess noise in your home; they are also prone to condensation as well as air leakage.

If you do choose to use these, you can make them more effective. You will need to wrap them in an external insulation. Insulating ducts will help to improve the overall performance and get them working the way they should. Any type of air duct can always benefit from external insulation. Typically this insulation is not very expensive, and installing it is not too difficult.

Basic Ductwork

Installing round metal ductwork

It is important you have at least a basic understanding for ductwork when you are working on them. The more you know, the better off you will be when it comes to picking the right type for your home. Both hot and cold air will need to be absorbed enough for your home to stay at a comfortable temperature year-round. Insulating ducts aids in this process.

There are three duct classifications. The first is the conditioned air duct. This will carry all of the conditioned air and disperse it back into the system. Fresh air ducts will focus on the fresh air in your air conditioning system. A round duct is the most effective. You will need less material than you would for a rectangular or a square duct.