Well, SVL answered your questions..... And you are one cheap
(something-or-other).

Why do you post your questions here? You say that you have had several HVAC
contractors look at it. They can see it and we can't.

Read on...


"Jeffrey J. Kosowsky" wrote in message
...
The previous homeowner did a DIY job of installing a new furnace using
a twisted maze of flex duct to make all the supply and return runs in
the basement.


That's one of the reasons the HVAC pro's don't like HO's to do their own
work.


Several heating contractors have advised us that flex is not intended
for long runs and that this is the most flex they have ever
seen. Also, there are no dampers and in some areas the flex is pinched
and the insulation tearing.


That's true. I don't much need for manual dampers around here, though


Couple of questions:
- Is replacing flex with rigid sheet metal duct work generally
worthwile?


I don't know. I would in *my* house. I don't have a lot of use for long
flex runs and won't warranty them on jobs the HO's or contractor asks for
it.


- Is it better to use custom sheet metal fabricated to fit tightly
between the joists or should we go with standard "round" ducts?


How much money do you want to spend? Custom metal can cost 1.5 times the
price of standard metal.


More generally are there different qualities of sheet metal that
we should be concerned about?


You mean the gauge (thickness) of the metal? Most round duct around here is
28 or 30 gauge. Rect duct is usually 28 gauge, IIRC.


- One contractor talked about "vinyl clad duct insulation". Is that
a good insulation solution?


Fiberglass duct wrap is on the way out and something has to replace it. The
vynil clad bubble wrap looks like the replacement, but it takes training to
do it correctly.


- What types of dampers should we be installing for best results?


Manual dampers? For air balance? If the ducting is done correctly, you
won't need dampers for balancing.


- Any other questions we should be asking regarding duct work?

Will you be getting a performance warranty? Will the duct work be sealed?
Can I get a contractors discount?

Good luck....