Pros and Cons of Flexible Ductwork

Flexible ductwork is an increasingly popular alternative being sought out by homeowners and used by HVAC contractors alike. But is it better than traditional hard metal ductwork? And should you consider using it in your home or business?

Pros of Flexible Ductwork

• Affordability – flexible ductwork is a cost-effective solution. Not only is the price of this ductwork cheaper, installation and labor costs for installation are also lower.
• Ease of Installation – flexible ductwork, as the name suggests, is quite flexible. This makes it versatile and easier to work with, requiring less skill, less labor, and requiring less structural changes to accommodate. For example, it can easily be used to navigate around sharp corners or through tight spaces.

Cons of Flexible Ductwork

• Friction – Metal ductwork is smooth and optimized for maximal airflow and efficiency with minimal drag. Flexible ductwork, by contrast, creates more drag, and thus require more energy to move air.
• Increased Energy Costs – In some cases, flexible ductwork may actually increase energy costs. For example, flexible ductwork with lots of twists and turns may require more energy to produce enough exhaust thrust.
• Susceptible to Problems – Flexible ductwork is softer and prone to interference from twisting, compression, pinching and damage from pests or rodents.
• Durability – Flexible ductwork is often less durable than traditional metal ductwork as it can be easily punctured or become brittle over time.