Flex Duct Vs Sheet Metal Duct

That leaves rigid sheet metal often called hard pipe.

Flex duct vs sheet metal duct. Flex must be oversized at least one duct size. More than likely. While sheet metal ductwork tends to be a better long term choice flexible ductwork has the advantage of relatively low upfront cost and versatility. While they tend not to last as long as sheet metal they are very cost effective.

Their shape and size also allows them to be installed in locations that would not accept full sized sheet metal ductwork. Rigid metal is more likely to be installed without constrictions whereas flex duct can easily be pinched down. You mentioned that you were considering re insulating your current metal duct work. Air flow in a flex duct tends to tumble probably because of the rib like intrusion every inch or so.

If i am going to have a supply plenum run for approx. If any duct product should be banned it s duct board. 25 feet should it be ductboard or metal and is hard pipe runs preferable over flex. While flex ducts work best for short runs in a trunk and branch system metal duct works best for entire air distribution systems.

Metal ductwork needs design measurement and installation by or with the help of an hvac professional. If your budget allows you may want to consider resealing your duct work with a mastic product. Duct board vs metal plenums supply is on perferable over the other. Alternatives to flex duct.

This is a great decision. Rigid metal is installed then mastic is applied to air seal then insulation is applied on the outside so there is less chance of fibers getting into your air stream. There s duct board rigid fiberglass with a foil facing but in my opinion that s worse than flex. Even when doing this the flex duct creates much more resistance.

Most often flex duct is used to reduce cost or in places where metal duct work will not fit. Air flow in a steel duct tends to travel smoothly in a coil like motion. Sheet metal ducts are less likely to incur dangerous mold and growths because their surfaces are non porous and smooth.