Defective ductwork can lose 30%, 40%, or as much as 50% of the energy used by your HVAC system. While HVAC ductwork installation is costly, it can save you a great deal in the long run. The ultimate cost varies by location, materials, and the size of the system. On average, the cost for installing ductwork is anywhere from $1,900 to $6,000, with the national average being around $4,000.
That’s assuming you’re having 300 linear feet of aluminum ducts replaced, plus insulation and 10 vents and two returns. However, retrofitting 300 linear feet of brand-new ductwork into an existing home can cost as high as $12,000!
How Much Does HVAC Ductwork Installation Cost?
Cost of Materials/Types of Work
According to HomeAdvisor, ductwork costs from $12 to $25 per linear foot, but there are many factors to consider. This includes removing existing materials and installing new components. The work of cutting into floors and ceilings adds significantly to the cost, on the range of anywhere from $550 to $1,750. The type of material used also impacts cost; here are a few examples:
- Flexible Polyester: $1 to $4 per linear foot of ductwork; is cheapest but has the shortest life.
- Flexible Aluminum: $2 to $5 per linear foot of ductwork; is durable but lacks flexibility and energy efficiency compared to other materials.
- Galvanized Steel: $3 to $10 per linear foot of ductwork; while most expensive, it is the most durable option.2
With materials, components, and labor considered, here are some more examples of average costs:
- Vents: Expect to spend $150 per vent, on average, if adding it to an existing system.
- Insulation: Fiberglass is the least expensive insulating material. Mineral wool and foil-backed mineral wool are more expensive. The average cost of insulating home ductwork runs from $1,295 to $3,000.
- Replacing Attic Ductwork: Depending on the size of your home and system, ranges from $500 to $2,000. Attic insulation can cost up to $2,100 on average.
- Replacing Crawl Space Ductwork: we start at $1,295 for a single run and charge $3,000 per day for ductwork. It also says $15 to $25 per linear foot, we are more like $25 to $45 per linear foot.
- Other Modifications: Repairing a wall after installing or replacing ductwork costs $550 on average; installing drywall costs $1,750. If you want to install a drop ceiling to cover up ductwork, expect to spend another $1,700.
- Rerouting Ductwork: Materials and labor can cost you $25 to $45 per linear foot. The ductwork type, present and future location of ducts, and difficulty of moving them impact costs, while working in hard-to-reach areas increases costs as well.
Additional Cost Factors
Many HVAC systems combine more than one duct type. Trunk ducts are usually made of metal. Branches in the system are usually more flexible and may need to be bent around corners and obstacles, run through joists, and fit in narrow spaces. The average ductwork installation project takes about two or three days (about 8 to 10 hours per day), so you could expect to pay for about 30 hours of labor. Taxes, permit fees, and other costs are likely to add to the total.
Ducts are available in rectangular, oval, spiral, and other shapes. This is a cost factor as each type of ductwork is priced differently. And if the job involves removing hazardous materials such as asbestos, or structural modifications to your home, the project can cost significantly more. When having HVAC ductwork installed, it’s important to ensure it’s done properly and all building codes and requirements are considered, or you may end up spending more later.
Contact Sky Heating and Air Conditioning
Our licensed technicians specialize in installing rigid and flexible HVAC ductwork. They are experienced with all types of ductwork and related components and can ensure smooth and proper HVAC ductwork installation that serves your needs for many years. We can provide an accurate estimate on the cost of installation, or install a ductless AC system for a faster, more affordable, and more efficient solution. To learn more or receive an estimate, call 541-275-2918 today.