The right ductwork material to use in your home depends on several variables. The good news is that you have three established choices that are commonly used to circulate heated and cooled air in a typical house.
The total linear length of ducts inside a residence typically ranges from 30 feet up to 100 feet. Ductwork is configured into two separate systems that form a circular path of airflow: Supply ducts deliver heated or cooled air from the central air handler into rooms throughout the house, and return ducts, conversely, convey air back to the furnace or AC to be heated or cooled again.
Here’s a summary of three ductwork materials and how they stack up to keep your home comfortable and efficient:
- Sheet metal. Typically the most common type of ductwork, sheet metal is also considered to be the highest-quality option. The material is long-lasting and low-maintenance. Another advantage is the smooth, hard internal surface of metal ducts, which optimizes system airflow and also makes dust and other duct contaminants less likely to accumulate.
- Fiberboard. Composed of strands of fiberglass embedded in resin to form rigid, insulated boards, these ductwork materials are square or rectangular. These lightweight, airtight ducts can be easily cut to size. The cost of fiberboard ductwork is less than sheet metal, and the material deadens the noise of airflow. However, the rough internal surface of fiberboard generates air friction and is also more likely to accumulate dust and dirt. Moisture absorption in fiberboard ducts may promote mold or mildew growth.
- Flex ducts are composed of a springy, internal spiral-wire framework covered by thick plastic. The ducts can be readily bent around obstructions and routed through very tight spaces, unlike complex metal-duct arrangements. However, flex ducts usually require substantial external insulation to maintain airflow temperature. Also, the ducts tend to leak or require replacement sooner than other materials.
For more details about the pros and cons of ductwork material, consult the experts at Paitson Bros. For 100 years, we’ve been the Wabash Valley’s choice for trusted HVAC sales and service.
Jeff Paitson is a third generation business owner who continues to run the business with the same values that have been passed down from previous generations since 1922.
Jeff’s belief is that the business belongs to Jesus Christ; therefore 10 percent of the company’s profits go toward the Maryland Community Church.
Jeff is a Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce member and in his spare time, he enjoys 
Ethan Rayburn is a lifelong resident of Terre Haute and a 2005 graduate of Purdue University.
An Eagle Scout, Ethan spent four years as a non-profit executive with the Boy Scouts of America before joining Paitson Bros. as a comfort advisor and later General Manager. In that role, Ethan has brought a renewed enthusiasm for customer care, integrity, value, and service to Paitson Bros. Heating & Air Conditioning.
Ethan enjoys singing and was a member of the Purdue Varsity Glee Club. He also enjoys playing and coaching soccer, spending time with his family and two young boys, and volunteering his time and resources with his church, Terre Haute First Baptist Church, which he has attended from a very young age.
Paitson Bros
1 (812) 232-2347
Serving the Wabash Valley, IN Area Since 1922