For those considering new ducting options for their home or space, most are struggling to decide between round ducting and flexible ducting. Although we are aware of the benefits of both styles, it is purely subject to your needs to decide which is best.
In this blog, we will answer the question ‘What is the disadvantage of flex duct?’
To prevent mould, fresh air should constantly 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 pros and cons of the ducting you opt for is vital in having a clear understanding in how to proceed.
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.
What does ducting do?
The ducting system is a series of interconnected hollow tubes dedicated to the movement of air, ducting pipes can come in different sizes and as previously mentioned, in different shapes, each of which has its benefit.
Ducting pipes can be as long or as short as required by the space it is occupying. Additionally, ducting can be created from different materials, as we will highlight below.
Ducting is used to facilitate the process of ventilation, ducting systems may vary, but generally are made from plastic or metal & made into the piping which intakes air from the room it is in & expels it outside.
The main purpose of ventilation is to introduce outdoor air into a dwelling, building or room being evenly distributed. Its general purpose is to allow “healthy” air for breathing & diluting pollutants that may be present in the dwelling, building or area.
Flex ducts explained

Flexible ducting (also known as flex ducts, or flexi ducts) 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.
What is the disadvantage of flex duct?
We at I-Sells want to approach any potential customer with the utmost clarity, we want to provide solutions for you that suit your needs to a tee. We don’t like to claim everything we supply is perfect for everyone.
The reality is we know some ducting options may not be appropriate for everyone as it is purely subject to the space it will be installed in, that’s why below we will share advantages as well as disadvantages of a flex duct.
Advantages
- 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
Disadvantages
- 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
- If not fully extended when installing, the likelihood of dust building up in the unextended spaces is high.
Can you use flexible ducting for heat?

Yes, you can use flexible ducting for heat, this is subject to the type of ducting you choose. Plastic ducting will not be suitable in high-heat environments, however, metal ducting presents the perfect solution.
Depending on the flexible metal ducting you choose, they can withstand temperatures of -30C all the way to 150C. We must clarify that this will vary depending on the ducting you choose, make sure to read the product specifications before committing to buying ducting from our range.
What happens if my ducting overheats?
If your metal ducting exceeds its temperature limits, it may become a fire hazard, along with this, you may find the effectiveness of the ducting reduced. Additionally, it may become misshaped, as heat makes metal expand.
Plastic ducting, if overheated will likely melt, plastic ducting isn’t generally placed in environments where this is a possibility so the likelihood of plastic ducting melting would be in the case of a mishap such as a fire.
Can I install ducting myself?
Yes, it is possible for you to install ducting yourself, however there are many factors to consider.
Installing yourself may save you money in the short-term, but in the long-term you can find yourself paying out of your pocket to rectify any possible mistakes you made during installation. When installing ducting, you should consider:
- Does walling need to be removed to fit the ducting?
- Do you have the right ducting for the environment you will place it in?
- Is the environment free from anything that can affect the ducting?
Contacting a HVAC expert with experience in installing ducting is the best, safest and quickest way to have your ducting installed with no hassle.
Ducting options to buy
The flexible ducting we offer comes in a variety of sizes and styles, including varying diameters including an aluminium 100mm diameter, and 102mm diameter . We have certain flexible ducting that is more suited to hot environments, all the way to ducting you can use for your tumble dryer.
Of course, we also offer ducting at different lengths to suit your needs which you can decide before ordering.
Can I use any kind of ducting?
Not necessarily, some ducting is more suited to home environments whilst others are more suited to industrial environments.
Luckily we have two seperate categories for this on our website to make it easier for you to navigate depending on your needs. Simply hover over the tab that says ‘flexible hoses’ and choose between ‘commercial’ and ‘industrial’ to begin browsing.
Can I cut flex ducts?
Yes, it is possible to cut flex ducts, in order to do this you will need a duct knife or a utility knife, and securing with a metal hose clip. You should make sure that before cutting your flexible ducting, you have fully extended it within the space it will be occupying.
It should not be coiled in any area except for the end that you intend to cut.
Purchase your ducting today

We at I-Sells endeavour to make sure our customers have all the information they need before choosing to invest in our mould solutions. Be sure to visit our blog page to gain knowledge on the wide array of factors and issues surrounding ventilation, mould, condensation, and much more.
We hope to have answered the question ‘What is the disadvantage of flex duct?’
We understand you may have more questions, Do not hesitate to contact us for more information with regard to whatever you may need our help with. If you’d like to send us an email, click here. For other contact options, see below:
Call us on 020 8463 9696
Visit us at our showroom:
*OPENING TIMES*
Monday – Friday: 8:00 am to 5:30 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am to 12:00 pm
Sunday: Closed
15 St John’s Parade
Sidcup, Kent
DA14 6ES
United Kingdom
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