The ducts are located in an unfinished attic. I found a couple of do it yourself spray foam kits that look like they may work but I haven’t been able to find any articles or info on such a project. Is this something that is done or am I way off base. Also, can you recommend any specific spray foam insulation products for this job? Thanks.
4 responses to I want to insulate my metal A/C ducts with spray foam insulation. Is this a good idea?
Very Good Idea Indeed. The 2lb Polyurethane Foam is the best for the job. Icyene is open cell similar to the can stuff you buy at the big box stores. Those are good for small jobs, wire penetrations and around windows and doors. For Ducts, between floor and ceiling joists, walls and the like go with the 2lb poly. Those kits are good but can be cost prohibitive to some. To me they offer a decent value due to the board feet you get out of the package including the ease and simplicity of applying the foam. Not only does foam completely seal things, it also adds rigidity and structural support. It gives the added benefit of quieting your duct work and preventing bending and flexing noises that can occur at start-up.
Fiberglass is cheap and works. Radiant Barrier Is better. If the foam route is not taken then use duct mastic and foil tape, then cover with radiant barrier with the appropriate air gap. Fiberglass insulation is not good with direct exposure to duct work especially at the seams and bends. If one is particular about health then avoid fiberglass insulation at all costs. If cost is your issue then use it. 2 layers of radiant barrier will do a much better job though and it is cheaper than fiberglass.
I want to insulate my metal A/C ducts with spray foam insulation. Is this a good idea?
I would use pink stuff and duct tape, i have it on my pipes and its yellow insulation stuck to aluminum foil type outer coating
i wouldn’t use it ,first it will be difficult, 2nd it will cost a fortune. get some fiberglass ,with vapor barrier and duct tape and do it right.
if its the spray foam i’m thinking of i would recommended not using it,,,the ductwork would be hard to work on later because the foam wont come off,,,the foam is normally used for gaps and such…not large scale insulating….i would use the type of insulation that comes in a large roll [ 5ft x 100 ft?] and looks like "bubble wrap"…it has no fiberglass to get on your skin or into your lungs and it is relatively easy to install…the "r" value isnt real high but its good enough,esp if you install "spacers" to maintain an air gap between the duct and the insulation per the instructions…..also,,sounds unusual that your ductwork is uninsulated in an unconditioned space…are you sure it isnt insulated on the inside??,,this type of insulation is known as "soundlining" and is usually dark colored…………dan
I want to insulate my metal A/C ducts with spray foam insulation. Is this a good idea?
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