How to Enclose Ductwork

Vent Pipe

Exposed ductwork can be ugly or just not the look you're going for. Enclosing ductwork is fairly simple, but it is usually effectively done in only one way and that's to enclose it with framing and drywall it over. It's not hard to do, but requires a bit of home repair skills and a few hours of work.

Things You'll Need

• Lumber
• Drywall
• Drywall mud
• Nails
• Screws
• Saw
• Paint
• Hammer
• Drill

Instructions

1. Measure the distance from the top of the ceiling down to the lowest part of the ductwork. Add about two inches to give extra room for framing and mark the closest walls. This is how far down you want the framing to start at the bottom.

2. Install a top plate for framing next to the ductworkwood to build a soffit. The framing can be as small as 2x2 lumber because it is not structural. Cut a bottom plate the length of the ductwork to match the top plate.

3. Connect the plates by using studs. Measure and cut so that the studs and plates come down to the mark on the wall. Build the same structure on the other side of the ductwork. Beneath and between the two framing structures, nail 2 x 4's for the drywall screws to attach. Try to keep all of the framing level.

4. Screw measured drywall pieces over the frame to cover the ductwork. Mud, sand and tape as you would any drywall and paint.

References

• Soffit framing