Professionals use these to size equipment based on your home's square footage, windows, and insulation.
Decide if you need separate controls for different floors, which may require multiple air handlers. 2. The Materials: Choosing Your Duct Type buy hvac ductwork
One ton of cooling typically requires 400 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFM) of airflow. Professionals use these to size equipment based on
Ductwork is a major investment. Total replacement for a standard home usually ranges from . Material Costs (Per Linear Foot) Insulated Flex: $1.50 – $7 Aluminum: $2.20 – $16 Galvanized Steel: $4.25 – $16 Fiberglass: $5.00 – $15 Installation Factors The Materials: Choosing Your Duct Type One ton
Prone to kinking and sagging; shorter lifespan (10–15 years). Built-in insulation, very quiet operation. Rough interior traps dust; high mold risk in humid areas. Fiberglass Lined Excellent noise reduction and thermal control. Hard to clean; fiberglass can deteriorate over time.
Replacing ducts in an unfinished basement is cheapest ($10/ft). Cutting through finished walls is most expensive ($40–$70/ft).
💡 Many homeowners use a "trunk and branch" system—rigid sheet metal for the main trunk line and short flex runs for the final branches to the vents. 3. The Budget: What to Expect