How do you use Reflectix on ductwork?

Installation Instructions

Verify the circumference of the duct at the mid-point of a spacer strip. Cut the Reflectix® product to this length plus 1”. Wrap the product around the duct and securely tape the linear and circumference seams (overlapping 1”) with UL181 Tape (goal is an air-tight, snug seam seal).

How do you cover insulated ductwork?

Use a paintbrush to apply duct mastic to the joints where an elbow connects to a duct. Use a utility knife to cut foil-faced fiberglass insulation to the proper size. Wrap the insulation around the duct, and then pinch the seam closed. Secure the insulation with short strips of foil tape.

Can you use spray foam around ductwork?

Once these preparations are made, the ducts can be encapsulated in at least 1.5 inches of closed-cell polyurethane spray foam. Encapsulating the ducts in spray foam increases the R-value of the ductwork and reduces air leakage.

Can you use Reflectix on ductwork?

Ease of handling and quick installation make Reflectix® the first choice when selecting insulation for round or rectangular ductwork in HVAC systems. The product provides an R-8.0 when installed with a 0.75” air gap between the duct and the insulation, and R-6.0 when installed direct to the duct without a spacer.

What insulation is best for ductwork?

The most common material used for insulating heating and cooling ducts is fiberglass. Fiberglass duct insulation is available in various thicknesses and R-values and in either a flexible or rigid form. The flexible type comes in rolls and is relatively easy to install on either round or rectangular ducts.

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Can you use bubble wrap for ductwork?

It “sort of works,” said Green Building Advisor Michael Chandler, but a better option is installing foil-faced duct insulation (not foil-faced bubble wrap) after ducts have been sealed with mastic and checked for air-tightness, preferably by an independent tester.

What is foil faced insulation used for?

Foil faced insulation is the best type of insulation for retaining heat in the winter and keeping heat out in the summer. This insulation product is designed to slow heat transfer and enhance acoustical performance. It also works as a barrier for methane, radon, vapor, termites and other vermin.

Should I insulate my ducts?

Without proper ductwork insulation, you could be losing 10-30% of the energy used to heat or cool your home. A good level of ductwork insulation will prevent not only energy wastage, but also leaks, temperature drops, and condensation buildup.

Can fiberglass insulation touch ductwork?

Fiberglass insulation can touch HVAC ductwork provided the ducts are not leaking or forming too much condensation. The insulation should be snug enough to prevent significant gaps throughout the ductwork.

Can you insulate inside ductwork?

There are four types of fiber glass insulation commonly used in ductwork applications: Fiber glass duct liner is applied to the interior of a rectangular sheet metal duct and designed to control heat loss or gain through duct walls, assist with quiet air distribution and control condensation.

Does exposed ductwork need to be insulated?

The ducts are exposed to the same cold, heat and humidity that exist on the outside. Insulating them is essential in colder climates, optional in milder ones and necessary in humid climates to prevent condensation.

How do I insulate my basement heat ducts?

What is the thinnest insulation with the highest R-value?

Aerogel insulation offers the highest R-value of any insulating material at less weight and thickness—ideal for construction, refineries, pipelines, and thin-gap thermal barriers.

Should cold air return ducts be insulated?

The cold air return ductwork is as important to your home's heating and air conditioning as the lines coming out. While insulating the cold air return might not be important, sealing it is, for two reasons. One is that you want air recycled from the rooms you are heating or cooling.

Does Reflectix have an R value?

Reflectix's stated R-14 R-values for exterior walls are good only if the Reflectix is paired up with R-13 fiberglass batt insulation. If you do not provide air space, Reflectix has less insulating value.

What is duct mastic?

RCD Corporation #7 Mastic is a water-borne air duct sealant used for permanently sealing the fabricated joints and seams of sheet metal air ducts, rigid fiberglass air ducts, flexible air ducts and thermal insulation.

How do you cover exposed ductwork?

If the ducts are easily reachable, consider covering them in flexible, magnetic sheeting. The magnetic sheets are solid, glossy colors that wrap around and conceal the ducts. They are easily removed if you want to change the color or look of the room.