How to Apply Duct Tape to Attic Duct Work
Applying duct tape to attic duct work is no longer accepted as a permanent way to seal seams and air leaks in attic ducts. That is because over time the duct tape dries out and the air leak returns. Foil-backed tape and mastic are used to seal attic duct work permanently. When you discover an air leak in an attic duct seam or a hole in an attic duct, however, you may use duct tape as a temporary solution until you apply a more permanent seal. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Damp cloth
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Instructions
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1
Clean the area around the seam or hole with a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust. Duct tape does not adhere well to dirt or dust. Clean from the point of the seam or hole outward 6 inches in each direction.
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Place the duct tape on one end of the duct seam or hole, pressing it firmly onto the duct work. Wrap the tape around the duct work in a crisscross pattern between the two sides of the seam or hole.
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3
Tear the duct tape section from its roll when the seam or hole is covered.
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Place the end of the roll of tape 6 inches from one side of the seam or hole. Press the tape firmly against the duct work, and wrap the tape around the duct until it is 6 inches past the seam or hole on the opposite side. Overlap the tape with the previously wrapped tape by 1 inch. Continually press down on the tape as you wrap to ensure the tape adheres to the duct and wrapped tape.
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Tear the tape from the roll when the wrap is complete.
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Tips & Warnings
Replace the duct tape with a more permanent solution as soon as possible.
