Does Flexible Ducting Need to Be Insulated?

For anybody considering replacing or installing their ducting, it is important to know whether or not your ducting should be insulated. That’s why, in this blog, we will answer the question ‘Does flexible ducting need to be insulated?’

To prevent mould, fresh air should always be introduced into your dwelling daily, as it helps to regulate temperature and reduce condensation. Introducing fresh air can be as simple as having a ventilation routine, or installing extractors or PIV systems. Almost all of this is facilitated by ducting.

Knowing the length of time your flexible ducting should last is key in knowing whether or not you should replace your ducting. And sometimes, whether it is insulated or not may affect that.

I-Sells is here to provide the answers you need whilst also supplying you with all the information you need to combat mould and have a well-ventilated home.

The basics of flexible ducting

Flexible ducting serves the same purpose as regular ducting, the function does not change, and the only change is the conduit in which the air travels. There are nominal differences between the two that may make one more effective than the other, but this is purely subject to your needs.

Regular ducting is solid, it can not be manipulated into specific spaces unless it is made specifically for that space. Flexible ductwork however is specially designed to be manipulated into spaces during installation ( and after if necessary.)

Why would I need flexible ducting?

Flexible ducting is ideal for those with limited space but still require ducting. It can also be used as a temporary option. Flexible ducting can come in plastic or metal, applicable in home/accommodation settings, or industrial settings. An example of flexible ducting can be seen in conjunction with vented tumble dryers.

The Pros and cons of flexible ducting

Pros

• It is flexible by nature which by default makes it easier to install & manipulate post-installation if needs be.
• Can be installed in tight or confined spaces.
• Option for transparent ducting to be able to see potential blockages.
• Can be used as a temporary ducting system

Cons

• Due to the flexible nature of this ducting, there is a higher likelihood of punctures, subjective to placement.
• Regular maintenance checks should be carried out to guarantee efficiency.
• Mostly suitable for internal mounting

What is the lifespan of ducting?

Ducting generally has a maximum lifespan of 20-25 years, if it is well-maintained, regularly checked and insulated. Regardless, metal ducting degrades over time, due to the expansion and contraction of metal in response to local relative temperature, which fluctuates seasonally.

When moving into a new home or building, you should enquire about the age of the current ducting system to know if it needs replacing or upgrading to a modern HVAC system.

Flexible ducting, if taken care of, with no dramatic or constant changes in its environment that require it to be moved should also last the lifetime of regular ducting. Though it is more susceptible to holes.

How to make ducting last longer

Making your ducting last longer is simple, but requires your attention and time. Here are some actions you can do to ensure your ducting lasts.

• Insulate your ducting.
• Repair any leaks before installing your ducting.
• Keep your ducting as short & with as few changes in direction as possible.
• If using flex ducting, ensure it is fully extended before installing, as air can get trapped in the spiral areas that are not extended, which causes dust to build up over time.

Signs your ducting needs replacing

• Holes in the ducting
• A buildup of dust within the ducting
• Condensation within or on the ducting
• Mould within or on the ducting

Does flexible ducting need to be insulated?