HVAC system ductwork winds throughout your home structure.
- While you can’t notice it, the ductwork system is responsible for providing your entire home with fresh air and functions to filter out harmful particles floating in it.
While there are two main categories of ductwork, flexible and rigid ductwork, rigid ductwork is popular for its durability. Rigid ductwork comprises various materials that are filled with insulation. Contrary to flexible ductwork, rigid ductwork does not make loud noises while air passes through it. However, since it uses more high-quality materials, rigid ductwork is typically more costly to operate and install. Rigid ductwork comes in three different types; sheet metal, fiberglass, and fiberboard. Sheet metal is the most commonly used type of rigid ductwork. Sheet metal, which is very lightweight and mold resistant, is constructed out of aluminum or galvanized steel. Although it is durable, it may leak in areas where different pieces are attached to it. The fiberglass ductwork features a middle sheet of sheet metal lined by fiberglass pieces on its interior and exterior. A design that ensures the ductwork maintains consistent temperatures and does not make loud noises during operations. Lastly, the fiberboard ductwork utilizes compressed fiberglass fibers to seal the air inside. The exterior parts of this ductwork are typically coated in foil to keep away moisture. This is among the most affordable rigid ductwork alternatives. However, since it features fiberglass, you may run into some mold and mildew issues. Due to its tough fiberglass, it may also lead to friction in your air system, impacting your entire HVAC system’s operations.