When it comes to insulated forced-air ductwork in residential applications, there are two common systems: flexible ductwork and ductboard systems. Deciding which system is right for a particular application can be challenging, as both systems are well suited to address the unique requirements and challenges that often arise in residential applications.

Flexible ducts are pre-insulated duct systems. They have an inner core that surrounds a coiled wire frame. Insulation is wrapped around the outside of the inner core, and then the entire system is encased in a polymer or aluminum foil jacket. The appearance of these systems is often similar to dryer vent exhaust hoses.

Duct board systems are made of rigid fiberglass insulation boards covered with aluminum foil, and the flat panels are made to fold into ducts by cutting slots in the boards. Because duct board systems are made entirely of fiberglass insulation, they are excellent for both thermal and acoustic control.

When considering which system is right for your application, first consider the unique benefits of each. 

Benefits of Duct Panel Systems

Lightweight: Because ductboard systems are made entirely of rigid fiberglass and require no other components (other than UL 181-approved tape and outward-biting staples), they are very lightweight compared to many other systems.

Excellent thermal and acoustic control: If the ductwork is made entirely of fiberglass, the system itself provides the best thermal and acoustic control. These types of ducts are less prone to sound transmission and are well equipped to maximize temperature control.

Antimicrobial Treatment: Both duct panel products are treated with an antimicrobial treatment to help protect them. The glass matting surface of our duct panels is treated with an antimicrobial agent to help prevent damage that can be caused by mold growth. In our duct panels are treated with a proprietary, antimicrobial coating. This coating creates a very smooth and efficient airflow surface that protects the fiberglass substrate from potential damage caused by mold growth and creates a more water-resistant surface, where small amounts of water are more likely to bead up on the surface and evaporate, rather than seep into the fiberglass substrate.

Low Emissions: It is a GREENGUARD certified low emissions product. This certification may play an important role in material selection if the home is designed to meet specific requirements for building design certifications such as LEED.

Benefits of Flexible Ductwork

Easy to install: Flexible ducting is known to be one of the easiest duct systems to install. This means that a professional installer will likely be able to install a high-quality system.

Formaldehyde-Free™ Insulation: This insulation is GEENGUARD® Gold certified, so it's a great choice for homes that want to meet specific requirements, such as those that may come with LEED certification.

For Specialized Spaces: Because flexible ducts are pliable, they are a great solution for the unique spaces often found in homes. Whereas other duct systems may be challenged by space requirements, flexible ducts are able to maneuver through spaces with little to no hassle. However, it is important to note that excessive bending of the duct system can hinder efficiency.

Single Piece Duct Branches: Since flexible ducts are usually single piece ducts, there are fewer areas for air to escape from the system. This means that if the duct is properly installed and the first and last connections are properly sealed, the risk of excessive air leakage is low.

Advantages of Hybrid Systems:

Adaptable and quiet: Hybrid systems combine the advantages of both systems. Designers can often gain the thermal and acoustic benefits of duct panels where necessary, while using the flexibility and maneuverability of flexible ducts where needed. This simplifies installation without sacrificing performance.

Lightweight: Both flexible ducts and duct boards are extremely lightweight compared to metal duct systems. Using a hybrid duct system can be an effective way to reduce weight, which is helpful in residential applications.

As with all comparisons, there are a few things you need to be aware of, and for flexible ducts, duct boards, and hybrid systems, the things to be aware of are the same: installation. Quality installation is critical to the success of any duct system, including each of the above. It's worth noting that we often see duct systems chosen based primarily on geographic location. In some areas, people may be more inclined to utilize a full duct panel system, while in other areas, people are more inclined to utilize a full duct panel system.