Based on test data, fibrous glass duct board is a strong and durable material system. In one test procedure where a duct sample is subjected to the impact of a two-pound rod dropped in several locations, including joints, fibrous glass duct was found to be puncture- resistant. In another test, a duct span was subjected to static load.
Do fiberglass duct boards last longer?
Fiberglass duct boards can last longer if it’s safe from moisture. You can’t use a fiberglass board in damp areas and expect it to last. Moisture or dampness allows mold and bacteria to build up. Moreover, it harms the material itself. The wisest decision, in this case, is to consult a professional.
Are fiberglass ducts bad for dogs?
Answer: Fiberglass duct board has the ability to cause cancer among animals. This is ensured by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Fiberglass ducts can also be an ideal place for mold and bacteria to grow. Question: Is round or square duct better?
What is the best type of duct board for airplanes?
Fiberglass duct board is usually a contractor’s second option. Even though it’s made from durable fiberglass sheets, it does have some drawbacks. The fibrous material can erode easily in the airstream.
What is fiberboard duct board made of?
Fiberboard duct board, made of fiberglass is one of the main types of duct board used in heating, ventilation and air conditioning applications. Fiberboard is cut into 4-by-8 foot lengths of fiberglass, which are called "sheets."
Is fiberglass duct liner safe?
Fiberglass, at a minimum, is an acute physical irritant to the skin, eyes, and upper respiratory tract. While no long-term health effects should occur from touching fiberglass. Rashes can appear when the fibers become embedded in the outer layer of the skin.
How long does fiberglass ductwork last?
Ducts are designed to last for about 10-15 years on average. They are made from a combination of materials such as fiberglass and plastic. At some point, these ducts will get damaged.
What is fiberglass duct board used for?
Fiberglass duct board is used for indoor commercial and residential heating, ventilating and air conditioning duct systems. Features: Absorbs noise and reduces popping noises caused by expansion, contraction and vibrations.
Should I replace fiberglass ductwork?
If the duct interior is not damaged its original binder and coating should be intact and it should not be a source of significant indoor air fiberglass. If the ducts were damaged, say by material cleaning, it may be more effective to replace them.
Can fiberglass duct board be cleaned?
Cleaning and Restoring Fiberglass Duct Boards Fortunately, these systems can now be restored through professional air duct cleaning. Fiberglass-lined or not, preventative maintenance and cleaning are always recommended for all ductwork.
How do you seal fiberglass duct board?
2:094:42Fiber Glass Duct Closure: Glass Fab & Mastic (9/22) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTo close a duct using the mastic and glass fabric closure system. Start with the duct that has beenMoreTo close a duct using the mastic and glass fabric closure system. Start with the duct that has been properly stapled at the seam. And is a clean and dry surface.
Does duct board have fiberglass?
A duct board is a common form of heating and air conditioning insulation made out of fiberglass and a thin layer of foil. Each board typically is 1 to 2 inches (2.54 to 5.08 cm) thick, and several boards can be assembled together to help airflow and maintain temperature.
What type of ductwork is best?
Though there are different types of ductwork available in the market today, Sheet metal is most recommended as this type of air duct is non-porous in nature and thus does not allow mold or bacteria to breed in the air ducts. Sheet metal ductwork also helps you prevent potential health risks of fiberglass air ducts.
Can you use insulation board for ductwork?
You can build ducts from rigid foam board to serve as the distribution system to circulate heated or cooled air in your house. As with all duct systems, it is essential that one built from rigid foam board is correctly designed so that the temperature is comfortable and consistent throughout the residence.
How do you get mold out of fiberglass ducts?
0:492:17How To Remove Mold From Fiberglass Ducts (2021) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt involves applying antimicrobial paint in the ductwork itself this not only encapsulate. TheMoreIt involves applying antimicrobial paint in the ductwork itself this not only encapsulate. The existing mold growth present it inhibits mold growth long term.
Should ductwork be replaced after 20 years?
“If your ductwork is over 15 years old, you probably should replace it. Ductwork has a maximum lifespan of 20-25 years. By 15 years, however, it begins to deteriorate, significantly reducing your HVAC system's efficiency, so replacement is the prudent option.”
What is the best insulation for ductwork?
FiberglassFiberglass has lower thermal resistance, which means it's better at insulating against heat loss than cellulose. Cellulose also reflects more sound from space than fiberglass does because of its higher density (though both are considered good for noise reduction).
How often should you replace ductwork?
“If your ductwork is over 15 years old, you probably should replace it. Ductwork has a maximum lifespan of 20-25 years. By 15 years, however, it begins to deteriorate, significantly reducing your HVAC system's efficiency, so replacement is the prudent option.”
What type of ductwork is best?
Though there are different types of ductwork available in the market today, Sheet metal is most recommended as this type of air duct is non-porous in nature and thus does not allow mold or bacteria to breed in the air ducts. Sheet metal ductwork also helps you prevent potential health risks of fiberglass air ducts.
How do you get mold out of fiberglass ducts?
0:492:17How To Remove Mold From Fiberglass Ducts (2021) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt involves applying antimicrobial paint in the ductwork itself this not only encapsulate. TheMoreIt involves applying antimicrobial paint in the ductwork itself this not only encapsulate. The existing mold growth present it inhibits mold growth long term.
How long does flex duct last?
10 to 25 yearsWhat is the functional lifespan of a flexible duct system? A search of industry articles, blogs, and chat rooms indicates it lasts from 10 to 25 years. Most flexible duct manufacturers warranty their products for about 10 years.
What is ductboard made of?
Newer ductboard (last couple of years especially) is coated on the inside and is made of "longer" fibers that resist blowing loose. When first installed there will be some loss fibers that blow into the air, but that will calm down with use. Also the homeowner will not properly replace his filters and the dust/dirt will coat the walls of the duct and further prevent the fiberglass from coming loose.
Does duct board erode?
Duct board will erode just like liner. Both of these can be coated to keep it from eroding.
What is fiberglass insulation?
Fiberglass is a plastic substance made of small glass particles extruded into thin strands of material that reinforce polymer products or insulate them. Fiberglass, invented in 1938 by Russell Games Slayter for Owens-Corning, is the typical referent when the generic term “fiberglass” is used, and it is well known across America as the pink, fluffy material resembling cotton candy that is used as insulation in 90 percent of buildings in the country. As health concerns rose about asbestos throughout the 20th century, leading to its general banning and phasing out as insulation in many countries worldwide, fiberglass production steadily increased and its use replaced asbestos in many applications. Asbestos concerns centered around the particulate air contamination it led to, which caused lung diseases like asbestosis, lung cancer, and others. However, now, with higher amounts of fiberglass insulation nationwide, there have also been higher concerns about its possible health hazards.
What are the alternatives to fiberglass insulation?
This includes soy-based materials such as foam, wool, hemp, and recycled denim. Although these niche products only account for a small fraction of demand in the 9.5 billion dollar US insulation industry, their use is expected to rise.
How many micrometers are fiberglass fibers?
Stanton’s study revealed that fiberglass fibers less than three micrometers in diameter and greater than 20 micrometers in length acted as carcinogens in rats, leading him to conclude that similar effects would probably be seen in humans.
What is fiberglass made of?
What is fiberglass made of? Fiberglass is a synthetic material. It consists of a plastic matrix that is most often made of a thermosetting polymer such as epoxy, polyester resin, vinylester , or a thermoplastic. This matrix is reinforced with glass fibers. The primary material of the fibers is silica, a type of silicon oxide polymer that does not have a melting point and has long been used for its hardness properties. Silica is commonly found in sand or quartz and is used to create many types of glass, including window glass, drinking glasses, and optical fibers. There are various types of fiberglass, distinguished by their chemical makeup, including:
What is Group 2B glass?
They did retain their classification for continuous glass filaments used for composite reinforcement purposes and the Group 2B “possible carcinogen” classification for certain special-purpose glass fibers. However, these fibers are not used for insulation purposes.
What is the primary material of glass fibers?
The primary material of the fibers is silica, a type of silicon oxide polymer that does not have a melting point and has long been used for its hardness properties. Silica is commonly found in sand or quartz and is used to create many types of glass, including window glass, drinking glasses, and optical fibers.
Can fiberglass be inhaled?
There is no evidence of long-term damage from inhaling fiberglass particles, and workers who come into regular contact with fiberglass insulation are not considered to be at any higher risk of lung and breathing problems, especially if they wear proper safety attire.
Why are ducts important?
One of the most important but often under-appreciated elements in any home is the ducts. They keep air flowing thru your filter and into your home and help remove allergens and other unwelcome airborne debris. Ducts are also what bring us the wonder of climate-controlled rooms. They’re the lungs of your home.
Can ductwork be bad?
They’re the lungs of your home. But ducts—or at least those that aren’t well-maintained—present problems. They’re inefficient, raise your utility bills, and generally make your humble home a place of discomfort. Worse yet, bad ductwork can actually cost you your health and potentially your life!
Can ducts cause allergies?
Ducts that are storing a lot of dust will only blow that dust back into the air, which can cause sneezing, aggravate allergies, and make breathing difficult. Ducting that isn’t sealed well can introduced dust from your attic or under your house right into your home.
Can fiberglass be inhaled?
According to the American Lung Association – Inhaling fiberglass can reduce lung function and cause skin eye and throat irritation, in humans and animals.
Can mold in ducts cause respiratory problems?
That alone is pretty gross, but it gets worse. Because your ducts consist of a network running throughout your home, the mold has easy access to just about every nook and cranny of your home. Breathing in some mold spores can lead to respiratory issues that often resemble seasonal allergies, in addition to headaches, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. Frequent contamination could lead to illness and respiratory issues all year long.
What Are Duct Boards Made of?
Basically, duct boards are a common form of insulation. They are made of large sheets of firm fiberglass. They’re commonly used for commercial and residential purposes.
Pros Of Using Duct Board
The duct boards are known for their stellar qualities. Most of which are listed below, so keep on scrolling!
Cons Of Using Duct Board
We can’t just focus on the good qualities of the duct board. Obviously, it does have some downfalls as ducting material. So what exactly are the cons of using a duct board?
FAQs
Question: How long does the duct board last? Answer: A duct board has a lifespan of 10-15 years. After that, it starts to fall apart, reducing the HVAC system’s efficiency. Thus it’s best to replace it in due time.
End Note
And on that note, we’d be parting ways. We hope this segment on duct board pros and cons was enlightening.
Why is fiberglass not a nuisance?
The conclusion is that it will not because its properties are very different from asbestos. OSHA confirmed these findings in 1991 when it decided to regulate fiberglass as a nuisance dust, and not as a cancer-causing agent.
What are the hazards of fiberglass?
The primary hazard associated with fiberglass is the chemicals used during the fabrication or lay up process. Styrene monomer, or raw resin, is catalyzed with an organic peroxide; the most common is methyl ethyl ketone peroxide. Cobalt compounds, often used as accelerators, can result in allergic dermatitis or asthma-like conditions. Acetone is a central nervous system depressant used for clean up of tools, utensils, and spray equipment. The important thing to remember about these chemicals is that they are health hazards when inhaled; proper respiratory equipment must be worn and adequate ventilation provided. You should also be aware that these chemicals can form flammable or explosive concentrations at normal room temperatures, so proper handling and ventilation is essential.
How does fiberglass affect the tissue response?
Because fiberglass breaks across the fiber to form tiny fragments, the tissue response is very different when these particles are inhaled. When fiberglass fragments are inhaled and deposited in the small air sacs of the lung, the alveoli do not close up and trap the particles. The particles are expelled from the alveoli and there is a rapid clearance of fiberglass dust particles from the lungs.
What happens when asbestos fibers break?
As they break, they form tiny fragments that no longer have the properties of a fiber. Asbestos fibers, on the other hand, are always present as bundles, never as a single fiber. Asbestos fibers fracture only lengthwise when the bundles break apart, releasing thousands of long tiny fibers.
How to protect yourself from fiberglass?
To protect yourself, wear long sleeve shirts and pants to keep the fibers off your skin, and wear clean clothes every day. Gloves and eye protection may also help. Use soap and warm water to remove any fibers that you do get on your skin. Dust is produced when mat or cloth is rolled out, where chopper guns are used, and in finishing operations where flashing is removed or sanding occurs. So always wear a dust mask in these areas to help avoid inhaling glass fibers.
What is the difference between asbestos and glass fiber?
The principal difference between glass fibers and asbestos fibers is their size and the way the fibers break down. Glass fibers are cylindrical single fibers that can never split lengthwise; they only break across the fiber. As they break, they form tiny fragments that no longer have the properties of a fiber.
Is fiberglass flammable?
You should also be aware that these chemicals can form flammable or explosive concentrations at normal room temperatures, so proper handling and ventilation is essential. Working with fiberglass material should not be dangerous if you are properly trained, and if you use the appropriate protective equipment.
Why are fiberglass ducts less expensive?
However, internal lining creates a resistance to airflow, causes static pressure drop, and is difficult to clean and main-tain. It also reduces the capacity of the ductwork. Thus, the system requires more energy and has a higher long term cost.
What is fiberglass duct liner?
Fiberglass (fibrous glass or glass wool) internal duct liner has been used as acoustical and thermal insulation in many Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) complaints may arise when the fiberglass internal duct liner deteriorates over time. Deteriorating fiberglass duct liner, which is typically black in color, can migrate through supply diffusers. The liner can deposit in occupied spaces and onto flat surfaces, where it can cause complaints and adverse health effects.
What is the best way to insulate ducts?
Insulating ducts on the exterior with bare metal on the interior is the ideal solution. Such a condition would eliminate dispersion of deteriorated fiberglass into the occupied space. It minimizes accumulation of dust and makes routine duct cleaning possible. Restrictions to air flow are minimized and overall, the system uses less energy to operate.
Is fiberglass duct liner good for mold?
Numerous IAQ case studies have shown that fiberglass duct liner, combined with dust, dirt and moisture, is a very good medium for microbial growth (examples: mold, fungus, Legionella bacteria). Microbial contamination in the BVAC system can cause serious long term odor nuisance and health effects for building occupants. Internally lined ductwork is difficult to maintain and clean. A clean BVAC system is crucial to building occupant health and well-being.
Does duct liner absorb moisture?
Another alternative would be a new type of duct liner, which does not deteriorate, does not absorb moisture, and has a smooth and cleanable surface. We located four new duct/AHU liner products, all of which are various polymer types.
What is duct board made of?
Fiberboard duct board, made of fiberglass is one of the main types of duct board used in heating, ventilation and air conditioning applications. Fiberboard is cut into 4-by-8 foot lengths of fiberglass, which are called "sheets.". The sheets are then routed to the proper size.
Why do fiberboard ducts sag?
Water Problems. If there is too much condensation or moist air in the duct work as it is blown through by the furnace or air conditioning system, the fiberboard ducts will absorb some of this moisture. The ducts will begin to break down to where they eventually can sag or otherwise fall apart.
What are the chemicals in fiberboard ducts?
Fiberglass and formaldehyde, two chemicals linked to cancer in laboratory animals, are off-gassed by the usage of fiberboard duct material. This means that as the ducts sit in your home, they are slowly releasing small amounts of both fiberglass and formaldehyde into the air in your home. This can lead to indoor air quality problems for people in those buildings. Some possible health risks of inhaling or coming into contact with fiberglass include rashes, nose and throat problems, and temporary stomach pains, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health Sheet.
What is duct tape?
Ducts are either round or square containers that air travels through, so the flat sheets of fiberboard have to either be rolled up or folded over to create enclosed circular or rectangular tubes. This is done by a machine in the shop where the edges are made and the edges are then sealed by duct tape or solder.
Can fiberboard ducts break down?
The ducts will begin to break down to where they eventually can sag or otherwise fall apart. This problem becomes magnified if the damaged fiberboard duct is in an area that is not exposed for easy access to be repaired or replaced. Video of the Day.
Is fiberglass bad for you?
Some possible health risks of inhaling or coming into contact with fiberglass include rashes, nose and throat problems, and temporary stomach pains, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health Sheet. Advertisement.
Can formaldehyde cause nausea?
The Minnesota Department of Health also indicates that short-term symptoms of exposure to formaldehyde can cause nose and throat discomfort, nausea and dizziness while long-term exposure to high levels of formaldehyde can cause cancer.
Where Can You Purchase Duct Board?
If you are a contractor looking to purchase it for a larger project, you might search for a distributor in our directory. Larger sheet metal distributors or HVAC distributors often carry this product as well.
Why do people use duct board?
People might choose it over metal duct because it’s a single product with dual benefits: structural integrity and insulating value. Traditional metal duct systems must be accompanied by a separate form of insulation. This adds to the labor and cost of the overall system.
What is duct board?
Duct Board: Everything you need to know. Duct board is a semi-rigid fiberglass insulation material often used for residential or light commercial heating and cooling applications in lieu of metal duct. Common characteristics include:
Is duct board insulation quieter than metal?
Duct board insulation is also a quieter alternative to a metal duct because it lacks metal-to-metal contact and metallic components in general. Sound waves can’t travel freely about the system.