What's the difference between Aeroseal and manual ductwork sealing?
Companies that primary promote Aeroseal will say that Aeroseal is superior to manual ductwork sealing but we don't believe that is the case. Manual ductwork sealing can be applied thicker than Aerosealing and seals larger holes bigger than 5/8".
When should Aerosealing be used and when is manual ductwork sealing recommended?
Manual ductwork should be used:
Aeroseal the ductwork should be used:
- Within the first 3 feet of the air handler, furnace or package unit
- Gaps larger than 5/8". An energy auditor will be able to identify larger holes with a blower door test. It is typically not a good idea to rely on the Aeroseal technicians to find the larger holes since they typically just "blow and go."
- When the ductwork is 100% accessible.
- Manual ductwork sealing can be applied thicker, which is better than the thin coat of glue Aeroseal leaves.
Aeroseal the ductwork should be used:
- When the ductwork is not accessible for rectangular sheet metal ductwork in attics, walls and crawlspaces.
- The the ductwork travels between floor cavities and is inaccessible.
- The ductwork travels to an inaccessible part of the house (just because a large or inexperienced technician can't reach an area in the attic, does not mean it is inaccessible).
- The ductwork is extensively wrapped in metal wires and insulation.