Air Duct Repair

If you notice that your utility costs are on the rise, you may need to give some attention to your air ducts. Virtually every duct system leaks air, the question is, how much? Government studies have shown that just about all ducts systems leak, increasing operating costs by hundreds of dollars annually.

You can substantially reduce this loss with a little attention to your duct system. The main contributors to leaks are duct sections that are crushed from being stepped on or from having heavy items placed on them. Other culprits include torn outer vapor barriers (generally black, silver, or grey in color), holes caused by vermin, and faulty duct connections.

We offer a free duct inspection with our installation services. You can also call us if you have any questions or if you've been told you may need duct repairs. We will professionally repair or replace faulty ducts, seal air duct leaks, and correct existing design problems.

If you are a bit handy and want to save yourself some money, check to see if there is easy access to the ducts. If there is, then you can fix this problem yourself without calling in a professional to do the work. Follow the guide below to do just that. Call us if you have questions or just need some help getting started. We have helped thousands of homeowners repair their ducts systems themselves. We offer a professional duct repair kit for just $89 which includes the items listed below

If you prefer, we can provide you with an estimate to compete the work professionally

Materials Needed

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• One gallon of Mastic sealant
• One roll of foil duct tape
• Paint brush
• One bag of panduit straps
• 3" fabric mesh tape
• Web Strap roll

• Step 1 - Locate the Holes
  Inspect the entire duct system looking for holes. You can do this by turning your thermostat to 'On' and not 'Auto.' After you have found the leaks turn off the thermostat.
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  Step 2 - Fix the Flex Duct
  If you find that the flex duct is loose and has fallen off, you will need to cut off any existing Panduit strap. Now pull the outer layer and insulation back about 8 to 12 inches and paint the exposed collar with mastic.
  
  Next, fit the inner duct onto the painted connection and wrap it with duct tape and secure the inner layer with a new Panduit strip. Pull the outer layer back into place and secure it with another new Panduit strip. If a section of flexible duct is crushed you will need to replace it.
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  Step 3 - Fix a Rip
  A ripped flex may not actually leak air because it is usually just the insulation that is torn, not the inner duct liner, but inspect it carefully to be sure. Should just the insulation be ripped, thoroughly clean the ripped section so that there is a clean surface for a good seal. Hold the ripped parts together and secure them with some duct tape.
  
  After you have done that you will take some of the mesh tape you have and place it on the rib. Then you will take the paint brush and paint the mastic sealant over the mesh. Put plenty on the area. Allow it to dry for at least 10 minutes. If you find that the rip will not hold, try stapling it together.
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  Step 4 - Test the Duct
  You should wait a few minutes after the sealant has dried before you test the duct. Once you are ready to test it turn the thermostat back on.
  
  

If you feel no air coming through where the mend is, you have fixed your problem. You will need to replace it.

Learn more about ductwork repair