What type of flexible molding or trim could be used to achieve a close fit to the duct work in a space with very low ceilings where a bulkhead is not desired?
Asked by Charly Renard 
8 months ago
Last Updated: April 19, 2024
This is something new to me. The client already had this work done, but the previous worker couldn’t get it close to the duct work. Do you know of any flexible molding or trim I could use? Or do you have any other suggestions? Oh, and just so you know, the ceilings are very low and they don’t want a bulkhead.
Yeah, I agree. Let’s make it an unsolvable problem. Good thinking!
‘s code permits duct work to be encased in spray foam, so don’t let a small amount of foam stop you from servicing ducts, even though it rarely happens.
It really depends on the type of foam you’re talking about and whether the drywall is part of a fire-rated enclosure. Using Great Stuff or other foams that aren’t fire-rated for this purpose can actually increase the risk of a fire.
Clarified that his previous comment about foaming was a joke to quickly fill the gap, mentioning that sprayfoaming ducts in a vented attic is acceptable as long as drywall separates it from the conditioned area of the house.
Enclose the duct work
I totally agree. They are really nice folks, and I don’t want to disappoint them. I’d rather figure out a solution, but nothing is coming to me 🤷♂️
Right? Are they looking for tape and mud? I’ve faced similar issues while working on the Sheetrock in my basement. It can be quite challenging to make clean cuts around irregular existing penetrations. Your client might think it’s a simple task, but achieving what they want is no easy feat and still ensuring it looks good.
I don’t have the additional picture that shows the duct turning after this one
Paul mentioned they prefer it unboxed with a low ceiling
The only way to prevent exposed duct work is by boxing it in like did. If they’re not on board with that, there really isn’t any other option.
Isn’t bothered by the exposed area; he just wants to narrow that gap a bit more.
Can you please replace the drywall, Eddie?
If I were you, I’d trim down the work the other guy did and create some new pieces to fit in better. It might require a few tries to get it right. Make sure to add a backer above any seams you have to make. No matter what you do, it might be tough to make it look seamless. Are you planning to finish the ceiling?
Paul, they also don’t want to do that 🤦♂️ I’m thinking of cutting a 6-inch piece of drywall to fit in those gaps, then cutting smooth angles to make it look like trim 🤷♂️
Hey, just a heads up – mentioned the ceiling is being renovated for new duct work. He might have an old photo to share.
Use a compass to outline the duct on the Sheetrock. Then use it to create a new piece of Sheetrock or transfer it to a new piece. Seal the edges and you’re finished.
I think that’s the area where all the supply branches extend out. You could enclose it with 2×2 and then include insulation. Put up sheet rock over it…
I thought you were in Canada. I thought wrong, USA it is. Well, Canadian codes must have been updated since 2011. Best of luck with the project!
Seal the gaps with spray foam and then paint over it.
Hey, thanks a lot, man.
Matt believes it’s legal
Gary thinks it’s probably not allowed in Canada. It’s a definite no in the USA
So, if I separate them into sections, they will require tape. He really went the extra mile.
Is from Ontario, Canada.
Can work in states that have adopted the Mechanical/Energy Codes from 2009, 2012, 2015, 2018, or 2021 by ICC.
Is located in which area?
I’m just thinking… remove the old piece, cut a closer fit. Then, use hot mud to fill in some gaps but use paper tape to get closer to the duct before finishing with caulk. It’s a bit hard to describe.
If you clean up some of the cuts, this could potentially work.
You enclose it and create a soffit around it. The person who did this didn’t really know what they were doing.
You’ll need to use hot mud and flat tape to properly float the surface.
One option is to box frame it, which will only result in losing the thickness of the drywall in headroom.
Explained that HVAC codes can differ, clarifying that he did not work on HVAC but the person who did is highly skilled.
Mentioned that UL 181 foil tape has been included in codes for a while now, not pointing fingers at anyone.
That foil tape doesn’t meet code, unfortunately.