How to Repair Ductwork in Attic

Well-functioning ductwork increases energy efficiency, which in turn, reduces energy waste and lowers your energy bill. It also improves indoor air quality and increases comfort by ensuring heated and cooled areas are properly distributed. Even more, well-functioning ductwork ensures that your HVAC system is working properly, saving homeowners in the long run.

Ductwork ultimately plays an essential role in your home. As with any system, ductwork can experience damage, reducing efficiency. If your attic ductwork is damaged or inefficient, here’s how to repair it.

Signs Your Ductwork Needs Repair

There are many telltale signs that your home’s ductwork needs repair. Let’s explore a few indicators to look out for: 

Inconsistent temperatures throughout the home

Have you noticed that the temperature inside of your home feels inconsistent? You might walk into one room that feels warm while the next room feels cooler than usual. Your home shouldn’t experience inconsistent temperatures which is a sign that your ductwork needs attention. It’s possible that your ductwork is not distributing air evenly.

Higher energy bills

Has your energy bill gone up recently without any explanation? While it’s normal to see a fluctuation in your energy bill, it is based on usage and should not be a sudden spike. But when ductwork is damaged, it can waste air and increase your energy bill.

Unusual sounds or air leaks.

If you’ve noticed unusual sounds or air leaks, this is a sign of a problem. Pay attention to sounds like rattling, clanking, and whistling. Additionally, examine your attic for any leaks. This could be a sign that something is loose or has holes.

Poor airflow from vents.

Another telltale sign that your ductwork needs attention is if you’re experiencing poor airflow from vents. It is likely an issue with leaky ductwork, even if you can’t see the leak.

Why is attic ductwork prone to damage?

Many potential factors contribute to attic ductwork damage. For instance, ductwork is more prone to damage over time. It can deteriorate due to constant use and age. As a result, older ductwork is more likely to have cracks, loose joints, and degrading material.

Another reason ductwork is prone to damage is poor installation of the ductwork. When ductwork is not installed properly, the risk of leaks and damage increases.

Poor insulation is also another concern for attic ductwork. This can lead to mold and mildew, decreased air quality, temperature fluctuations, and more.

Too much heat exposure can also cause issues for ductwork. Excessive heat leads to overheating, condensation, and increased workload – all of which damage ductwork.

Safety Precautions Before Repairing Attic Ductwork

Before repairing attic ductwork, there are a few safety precautions to follow, including:

• Turn off your HVAC system before starting any repairs. This will protect yourself and your equipment.
• Use protective gear, including masks and gloves to avoid exposure to dust and insulation.
• Ensure proper lighting and ventilation in the attic for safe working conditions.
• In most instances, hire a professional instead of attempting DIY repair. If your ductwork needs cleaning or replacement, reach out to a professional.

Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing Ductwork in the Attic

Here is a step-by-step guide to repairing ductwork in the attic: 

Step 1: Inspect the Ductwork

A visual inspection is an excellent way to identify any issues with the ductwork. When performing a visual inspection, you want to carefully examine each duct section. Look for gaps, tears, or disconnections in the ductwork, especially at the joints and seams. Some common issues you’ll find are loose connections, tears in the ductwork, and deteriorating insulation.

Step 2: Seal Air Leaks

Next, it’s time to seal air leaks using foil-backed tape or mastic sealant to assist. Mastic sealant is a thick, gooey substance that dries into a strong, flexible seal. Apply the sealant using a brush or putty knife to joints and seams.

To use foil-backed tape, make sure all surfaces are clean. Use a utility knife or scissors to cut the tape to the correct length. Then, peel the protective backing from the adhesive and apply the tape to the joint or seam.

Note: Only use HVAC-specific tape when sealing air leaks. It is the only tape that will work on air ducts.

Step 3: Repair or Replace Damaged Sections

To replace sections of ductwork, use measuring tape to mark the cutting lines. Then, use tin snips for straight cuts on smaller ducts. Use a saw with a metal cutting blade for larger or thicker ducts.

Keep the duct secure while cutting to prevent the ductwork from wobbling. Once cutting is finished, use a metal file to smooth sharp edges. To cut a flexible duct, use a duct knife to cut around the outer jacket, insulation, and inner jacket. Lastly, use snips to cut the metal wire.

Step 4: Insulate the Ductwork

Properly insulating ductwork is essential to prevent energy loss in the attic. A few methods to insulate ductwork include:

• Foil tape: a cost-effective solution to seal leaks and prevent heated or cooled air from escaping
• Mastic: a popular sealant applied along the seals to prevent air from escaping
• Duct insulation sleeves: a type of jacket used to insulate rigid or semi-rigid round ducts

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

There are several critical tools you’ll need for DIY duct repair, including:

• Foil-backed tape or mastic sealant.
• Duct insulation.
• HVAC shears for cutting ductwork.
• Gloves and safety gear.
• Tape measure and ruler

When to Call a Professional

While some issues with your ductwork can be handled with a little DIY, there are some situations where professional help is recommended. For instance, large-scale duct damage should be handled by a professional.

Another situation where you would want to call a professional is if you’re having issues with hard-to-reach or complex duct systems. Homeowners should also reach out to a professional if there are any signs of mold or pests in the ductwork. At Crystal Clean Vents, we offer inspection and repair to help homeowners quickly identify and troubleshoot issues with their ductwork.

Improve Your Ductwork with Crystal Clean Vents

Ductwork is one of the most critical components of your HVAC system. Optimal ductwork improves energy efficiency and indoor comfort. If your ductwork is damaged or isn’t operating as efficiently, follow our steps for basic repair.

For homeowners not comfortable with DIY repair or dealing with more extensive repair issues, be sure to contact a professional for assistance.

Need help with your attic ductwork? Contact Crystal Clean Vents for expert duct repair and cleaning services.