Insulating duct-work

WorkOnIt

I have a question about insulating the duct-work in my crawl space. I live in central NJ and just had a/c added to our existing forced-hot air heating system.

The company that did the a/c install also recommended that we wrap the duct-work in our crawl space in order to prevent a pontential mold hazard down there from built up condensation. I am behind this 100% and want to get it done.

The dimensions of the crawl are 25 X 34 and it feeds 7 vents in the first floor and 3 vents in the second floor. The down flow furnace is centrally located on the 1st floor.


My question is the quote I received was 1500 to wrap all the ducts in the crawl. I thought this was high, being that the whole a/c install was 3495.

Is this something that a DIY can do? I am relatively handy, but at the same time, with my allergies and having a 9-month at home I do not want to take any chances.

Thanks -- WorkOnIt

ridgevilleac

A DIY'er can certainly do it. All you need is someone willing to help. (it will take 2 people) a roll of duct wrap, several rolls of foil tape, (5 or 6) a tape measure, an insulation staple gun, a box of insulation staples, a utility knife, a pair of longnose shears, a LONG sleave shirt and long pants, several disposable filter masks for easier breathing of the insulation particles floating in the air, a 2 gal pale of mastic to seal all the joints, and a couple of days to do the job. Sounds easy? does it not? $1500.00 sound like a pretty good deal to me.

muddog

lmaooo I would agree with ridgeville. you also have to add the cost of the exterminater to get rid of the pests first.

WorkOnIt

Pretty funny...

So, should I expect you 2 tomorrow morning around 9ish, I like to sleep in a bit on Sundays...

Don't worry it is only suppose to be 97 degrees tomorrow and about 84% humidity. You guys will be fine under there and I will make sure to have plenty of lemonade on hand...

muddog

lmaooo I dont think you can afford for me to go in a crawl space unless its a new house. I dont like spiders. You can do it yourself. There is a industry method and there is a HO method. Ridgeville gave the industry method. The HO method is just making sure the duct is wrapped with insulation. There is many ways you can do that and by your post, I am confident you can figure out a way. I would suggest at least an R8 rating.

P.S. No I wont be there in the morning.

ridgevilleac

You did not give your address. I would have been there You can do the job. Just take your time and make sure everything is sealed. The heat is on...... it made 102 today in SC.