Your home’s air ducts ensure filtered, conditioned air is distributed throughout your home. Their design affects the overall efficiency and longevity of your HVAC system. As a result, it pays to ensure that the right ductwork materials are installed in your home. Let’s take a look at the best ducts available to help you identify the ductwork material that best meets your needs and those of your Indianapolis home.
Sheet Metal
Aluminum and galvanized steel are the two materials used to make sheet metal ducts. Galvanized steel ducts have duct wrap to insulate against noise and prevent the loss of heated or cooled air. Their zinc coating prevents rust buildup and corrosion. Aluminum sheets are lightweight and usually have pre-insulated panels.
Sheet metal ducts are very durable and energy efficient. Their inside surface is known to collect particles like dust, so it’s a good idea to have them professionally cleaned occasionally.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is inexpensive and versatile. It has excellent soundproofing and thermal properties. The sound-insulation properties make fiberglass ducts a popular option in commercial buildings. Fiberglass ducts have an external or internal fiberglass lining. The major disadvantages of fiberglass-lined ducts are that they’re hard to clean since mold can contaminate them, and the fiberglass can deteriorate and release particles into the air.
Fiberboard
Fiberboard ducts are made of compressed resin boards combined with inorganic fiberglass. They’re usually the least expensive type of air ducts to install. Their well-sealed interior prevents fiberglass particles from being released into the air. Fiberboard also offers great thermal and sound insulation.
The textured inner surface of fiberboard ducts can trap debris and affect air quality. Fiberboard isn’t ideal for ventilation systems because of how easily molds can stick to it.
Flexible
Flexible ducts consist of a steel spring enclosed in thick, bendable plastic. Ductwork materials used to make flexible ductwork including rubber, silicone, stainless steel, PVC, polyurethane, and neoprene-dipped polyester fabric. Flexible ducts are generally easy to install and resistant to bacteria and molds. Consequently, they don’t need much maintenance. Nevertheless, specific installation requirements must be met to avoid hurting their performance. They’re not the best for maximizing air circulation, as they may restrict airflow.
A heating and cooling professional can provide further guidance on the best ductwork material for your individual needs, house, and area. Contact us at Mowery Heating, Cooling and Plumbing for all your home-comfort needs in the Indianapolis area.
