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how much does it cost to repair ductwork

by Leann Kris Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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How much does duct cleaning services cost?

How much does air duct cleaning cost? Air duct cleaning costs will fluctuate depending on the number of furnaces and vents in your home. However, it will typically cost $500 or more. Beware of companies who offer eye-catching low prices as these services most likely do not provide the proper, whole-home cleaning needed to be effective.

How to replace ductwork and install a return vent?

  • May have wire reinforcement
  • Often covered with plastic or aluminum
  • Lightweight and easy to install
  • Great for tight spaces and complex layouts
  • Prone to tears, pest infestations, & moisture damage
  • Reduced airflow without proper installation
  • Creates fire hazards in high-heat areas
  • Shortest lifespan of all types

How much does it cost to clean an air duct?

Air duct cleaning usually costs around $375, but it could be more or less depending on the number and type of ducts you have, plus how dirty they are, and the location of your home.

How much does AC duct cleaning cost?

How Much Does It Cost To Clean Air Ducts? Air duct cleaning costs an average of $400. But the price is affected by several factors like the size of the house, the total number of ducts, and how complicated the ducting system is. You could pay between $700 and $1,000 for a large home.

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Is it worth it to replace ducts?

Yes, and Here's Why. Ductwork is a vital component of your home's comfort, air quality, and energy consumption. You should replace old ductwork as soon as possible to maintain the performance of your HVAC.

How do you fix torn ductwork?

7:218:31How to fix tear in ductwork! Easy - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou put your straps around this side then what you want to do is actually pull your installationMoreYou put your straps around this side then what you want to do is actually pull your installation back up. And you want to put another strap on the outside of the insulation holding the connector.

Is new ductwork expensive?

On average, the cost for installing ductwork is anywhere from $1,900 to $6,000, with the national average being around $4,000. That's assuming you're having 300 linear feet of aluminum ducts replaced, plus insulation and 10 vents and two returns.

Is replacing ductwork easy?

Although replacing ductwork can be done as a DIY project, it is a delicate and extensive project that requires some prior knowledge of how the construction of HVAC systems works.

Should ductwork be replaced after 20 years?

“If your ductwork is over 15 years old, you probably should replace it. Ductwork has a maximum lifespan of 20-25 years. By 15 years, however, it begins to deteriorate, significantly reducing your HVAC system's efficiency, so replacement is the prudent option.”

How do I know if my ducts are leaking?

Turn your HVAC system on and return to the areas where ductwork is accessible. Check the connections between each section of duct, placing your hand over the metal. If you feel air against your hand, the connection is loose and there is an air leak. A common place for leaks is the duct joints.

How long does ductwork last in a house?

about 10-15 yearsDucts are designed to last for about 10-15 years on average. They are made from a combination of materials such as fiberglass and plastic. At some point, these ducts will get damaged. The sooner you see signs of damage and do something about it, the better.

Why is ductwork so expensive?

Ductwork Cost Can Be Expensive in Larger Projects Quality of the Home – Another critical factor in the cost debate is the sturdiness of the home the unit is going into. If your home is older and has substandard flooring or walls, it could end up being a nightmare for all involved.

Should I replace metal duct with flexible?

Flex ducts are better for existing trunk-and-branch heating and cooling systems. This is because they're more versatile and flexible. Metal ducts are more rigid due to the nature of steel, making them ideal to build an entire HVAC system.

How do you replace old ductwork?

0:061:54Replace Ductwork Explained - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTake me through the process what's the first thing that we're gonna do here today first thing we'reMoreTake me through the process what's the first thing that we're gonna do here today first thing we're gonna do is demolition.

How much does it cost to re wrap ductwork?

of ductwork insulation is typically $1,000–$2,700. Costs vary depending on the insulation material you choose. HVAC duct insulation costs $1.15–$5.50 per sq....Highlights.National Average CostMinimum CostMaximum Cost$2,500$750$6,000Jan 18, 2022

How do you redo HVAC ductwork?

1:164:40How to Install Ductwork | This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou can see one on each side. And that's going to allow the male piece the straight piece from theMoreYou can see one on each side. And that's going to allow the male piece the straight piece from the next piece of duct work to key right in to that s clip.

Can You Use Flex Seal on ductwork?

Flex Seal can be used for ductwork, interior HVAC walls, wood, concrete, metal, etc.

How do I rewrap my AC ducts?

5:019:59How to Insulate Ductwork | Ask This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUp halfway between this foil tape and the mastic is actually a product like this it's a foil tapeMoreUp halfway between this foil tape and the mastic is actually a product like this it's a foil tape but on the back.

What kind of tape do you use for heating ducts?

Foil-backed tapeFoil-backed tape: This is the best tape for heating ducts. It uses a large amount of acrylic or butyl adhesive to resist drying out and becoming brittle. The metal foil backing also withstands temperature changes without shrinking and failing the way cloth-backed duct tape does.

How do you repair fiberglass ducts?

2:384:42Fiber Glass Duct Closure: Glass Fab & Mastic (9/22) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTo close a duct using the mastic and glass fabric closure system. Start with the duct that has beenMoreTo close a duct using the mastic and glass fabric closure system. Start with the duct that has been properly stapled at the seam. And is a clean and dry surface.

Cost to replace ductwork

The average cost to replace ductwork is $1,400 to $5,600, depending on the home's size. Air duct replacement costs $25 to $55 per linear foot or $270 to $500 per duct for a crawl space, attic, or basement. New ductwork installation costs $2,400 to $6,600 for a house without HVAC ducts.

New ductwork installation cost

New ductwork installation costs $2,400 to $6,600 on average to retrofit an existing home without ducts. A new duct system includes the fittings, plenum, air distribution boxes, duct runs, dampers, and insulated register boots.

Air duct replacement cost

Residential ductwork installation costs $25 to $55 per linear foot on average to remove the existing ducts and install new ductwork. The average home has 100 linear feet of ductwork.

Cost factors to replace ductwork in a house

The total cost to replace ductwork depends on the house size, duct location, number of ducts, duct type, and insulation. Labor costs increase for rerouting ductwork, cutting into the floor or ceiling, or installing ducts in older homes.

HVAC ductwork installation cost

The average cost to install an HVAC system with ductwork is $6,800 to $12,400 for retrofits in existing homes. Installing a new heating or cooling unit with existing ducts costs $2,000 to $5,900 on average. New HVAC ductwork installation costs $2,400 to $6,600 on average.

Ductwork repair cost

Ductwork repair costs $200 to $700 on average for minor jobs, depending on the service, duct size, and accessibility. Basic repairs include fixing a leak, replacing a vent, or replacing small duct sections or insulation. Larger damages need a full sealant application or duct replacements.

Frequently asked questions

Ductwork is a large piping system that sends heated or cooled air from HVAC units throughout the home. Duct vents are long tubes or rectangular sheet-metal channels made of fiberglass, steel, PVC, or aluminum. These rigid or flexible ducts are in ceilings, attics, basements, and crawl spaces.

How much does it cost to replace ductwork in the attic?

The cost to replace only the ductwork in the attic of a home is between $500 and $900 on average. Attic ductwork is a common method of getting air to the upper floors of a home. It is also a good choice for retrofitting homes or for smaller spaces where the air conditioner needs to be installed on the roof. This ductwork is usually fairly easy to access and is often exposed. It can be of many different duct types and forms. This depends on whether this is a branch or the main trunk of your line.

How much does it cost to install ducts in an unfinished home?

The cost of installing ducts in an unfinished home averages $1,900 to $4,000. In new construction, installing new ducts is fairly straightforward because the ducts can be put in before the walls and floors are finished, making the installation easy. If the home will have ducts, space can be left for them, which makes installation easier. In a finished home, there is often no space for the ducts, making it costly. But in an unfinished home, the ducts can be planned from the beginning. This means you can have a more efficient and optimized system, with ducts that are large enough to handle more air than may fit in an existing home.

Why are ducts hidden in the basement?

It is common for homes to have at least some exposed ducts in the basement or utility room because they move from your HVAC system to the finished rooms of your home. From there, the ducts become concealed in floors, walls, ceilings, closets, and other spaces. In some homes, such as lofts, all the ducts may remain exposed. The cost of installing new ducts fluctuates depending on whether the ducts are exposed or hidden. Hidden ducts are harder to reach, increasing labor costs.

How much does fiberglass duct board cost?

The cost of fiberglass 1 duct board ranges from $6.50 to $13.50 a linear foot installed. This material can be installed in place of sheet metal ductwork. It is usually rectangular, but some oval exists. This material is used for the trunk of the ductwork system. The trunk is the area that connects directly to the HVAC and runs to all the branches, which then feed off to the vents. Fiberglass ducts are insulating and can be used to gain LEED credits in some areas.

How much does aluminum duct cost?

The cost of aluminum flexible ducts averages $6.50 to $11.50 a linear foot installed. There are many aluminum duct types, including uninsulated and insulated flexible ductwork. These can be used for branches, tight spaces, exposed ducts, and ducts in uninsulated areas.

What are the different types of ductwork?

It is very common for some installations to use more than one duct type. Two of these are flex ducts and metal ducts. Metal ducts make up the trunk of your ductwork. They are what attach to your HVAC system and begin the run to the many branches that will carry the air to the rest of your home. From there, the branches may be made of flexible materials, including aluminum and some types of insulated, recycled plastics. Flexible ducts are good for fitting into narrow areas, bending around corners and obstacles, and feeding through joists. Metal ducts are good for handling larger amounts of airflow at once. In most cases, you will find that your ducts need a combination of both to work efficiently.

How much does it cost to add a vent to a duct?

The cost of adding a vent to existing ductwork ranges from $150 to $250 a vent. Adding a vent is a great idea if you do not receive adequate heat or cooling to a room. Sometimes, this vent may need to be a return vent as well, meaning that it facilitates the air returning to your HVAC system.

How much does it cost to clean air ducts?

Air duct cleaning costs. On average, homeowners across the US, report spending $300-500 to clean the air ducts in a 1,500 sq.ft. house. In a larger house, pricing can range from $450-700. Typically, companies charge $30-35 per vent, or a flat fee that depends on the square footage of the house.

What happens when you fix ductwork?

Once the ductwork is fixed, you will experience a dramatic difference in temperature comfort throughout your house, as well as better air quality. If someone in your home has allergies or other respiratory issues, make sure that your ducts and filters are working properly. Otherwise, neglecting this may exacerbate their health conditions.

How many square feet of ducts do I need?

There is a simpler way to understand this. Most homes need about 1 linear foot of ducts, for every 10 square feet of lining (conditioned) space. Sometimes you need more, and sometimes less. However, 1 ft per 10² ft average is a good place to start.

What to do if ductwork is not working properly?

If your ductwork is not functioning properly, it is important to determine whether you should repair or replace it. A new system can be very costly, so you don’t need to jump on this option, if less expensive repairs can still do the trick.

What factors increase the cost of ductwork?

The price range for new ductwork installation is very wide spread. The following factors will increase your total cost: 1. Location of the ductwork: typically new ducts are installed either in the basement or the attic.

How often should I clean my HVAC system?

HVAC pros recommend to do this once every 3-4 years.

What can a pro do to test for air leakage?

For example, a pro can preform a special blower test to measure the exact amount of air leakage that is escaping through the ducts. Other tools can help measure air pressure, as well as pin point the site of the air leak.

How much does it cost to install ductwork?

Cost of Installation Supplies 1 $1.10 – $5.25 per foot | Insulated flexible duct, 4” to 16” diameters used as branches or in radial duct attic systems 2 $2.30 – $13.00 per foot | Round and oval sheet metal duct, 3” to 8” diameters typically used for trunks in small homes and branches in larger homes 3 $6.50 – $12.00 per foot | Rectangular duct 6”x12” up to 12”x24” used as trunks 4 $3.00 – $12.50 per foot | Spiral, decorative duct used where visible such as along the ceiling of a loft apartment 5 $5.25 – $7.00 per foot | Duct stacks used in walls 6 $50 – $150 each | Plenum used to connect the furnace or air handler to supply ducts and Cold Air Drop for connecting the return ducts to the furnace/air handler 7 $225 – $575 | Fittings and accessories like boots, take-offs, joist pans and dampers 8 $50 – $125 | Duct sealant including tape, insulating wrap and mastic 9 $60 – $200 | Required tools depending on their quality

What is the least expensive duct system?

Type of Ductwork System – The least expensive duct system is a radial system of flexible ducts in an attic running to ceiling grates.

Why do zoning equipment costs rise?

Zoning Equipment Inside Ducts – When dampers have to be removed and replaced, cost rises because of the additional materials and labor involved. Complexity of the Ducting – Some of the other factors enter into this – house size and layout, where the ductwork is located, age of the house and ducts, etc.

Is an HVAC system too big?

The old HVAC system was too large for the home. There was a time when contractors thought bigger was better, but that’s no longer true. A system that is too big wastes energy, creates temperature fluctuations and won’t adequately dehumidify a home in summer.

Is it cheaper to replace ductwork in a basement?

Ductwork running along an open ceiling in the basement of a one-story home is also more affordable to replace. The costliest are sheet metal ducts running in enclosed walls and ceilings. Most projects require more than one type of ductwork.

Do you need return ducts for HVAC?

Whether Return Ducts are Used – Most homes have return ducts. A few homes with open floor plans and a first-floor HVAC system don’t require them, as air is easily drawn back to the furnace or air handler. Number of Duct Runs – House size is a factor here, but so is the layout of your home.

What is ductwork system?

Ductwork systems are designed to pull air from rooms into the heating and cooling units and push it back again. Not only is this good for regulating the temperature throughout your home, but it also eliminates odors and mold build-up.

Is air ducting a silent system?

Air ducts are not a silent system. You should be able to hear the air traveling through your home when the unit is running. But, for the most part, the noises coming from a healthy ductwork system should easily become background noise without causing much of a disruption. But what about the noises you can’t ignore?

How much does it cost to replace ductwork in an attic?

Replacing ductwork in your attic will cost around $500 to $2,500 on average.

How long does it take to replace ductwork?

Of course, faulty or bad handiwork will mean that you may need to make repairs sooner than expected. A duct replacement job should generally take around 2 to 3 days to complete.

How much does it cost to seal ducts?

This will cost you anywhere between $250 and $2,000 depending on how many leaks you find and the size of your house.

What is ductwork?

Ductwork facilitates the path air takes to and from your HVAC system and in and out of your house.

Types of ductwork

Rigid ductwork can further be broken down into aluminum (more expensive) and galvanized steel (more affordable).

Ductwork alternatives

Most homes in the United States integrate HVAC systems that require ductwork, such as central air.

Learn about roofing

There’s no need to pay for a contractor when you know how to replace fascia board by yourself. Learn the steps one at a time today with our basic guide.

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