Common Types of Underground Ductwork in the Chicago Area

Understanding your ductwork is crucial so that when problems emerge, you are sure you are getting the right service.

Do you ever wonder what piping lies beneath your floor? Below is a list of the most common types of ductwork found in most homes today:

  • Galvanized Steel – The most common piping found in air duct systems, galvanized steel pipes are coated with a protective layer of zinc to inhibit mold growth. Over time, however, moisture from the ground causes them to corrode and deteriorate.

  • Cardboard Sonotube – Popular in the 1950’s, Sonotube pipes are made of thick gauge cardboard that quickly breaks down when exposed to moisture, allowing mold to thrive.

  • Transite – Widely used from the 1950s to the 1980s, these cement pipes have asbestos fibers mixed in them. The 80s brought awareness of asbestos and its harmful cancer-causing properties so use of transite pipes stopped.

  • Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) – Commonly found in many homes today, PVC piping is durable and rust resistant yet very susceptible to mold growth.

  • Vitreous Clay Tile – Popular in the 1940s, vitreous clay pipes are connected using mortar or tar. These connections are not always airtight and therefore, allow air to escape – and debris and moisture to come in.

  • Concrete – Very similar to vitreous clay piping, concrete pipes are also connected using mortar or tar. These often loosely connected pipes allow air to escape and debris and moisture in.

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Underground ducting in Chicago is the system of underground ductwork for your home’s central heating and cooling system. This method is not compatible with all buildings, but can be very beneficial to homes that are compatible with this type of underground duct system. It can help increase efficiency of heating and cooling and reduce energy costs. Although, underground ducting has its own unique issues since it is below ground and susceptible to water entering the ductwork if there is a leak. To find out if underground ducting is the best option for your home, give us a call today. 

The main way to fix ductwork under a house in the Chicago area is to line your ductwork with a latex liner solution that hardens inside your air ducts. This lining helps seal any leaks or inconsistencies in your ductwork to provide a non-invasive solution that allows your underground ductwork to work efficiently. Additionally, lining your underground ductwork helps prevent mold, dirt and debris from building up to ensure that your air ducts remain clean. To learn more about getting your underground ductwork repaired, call us today.

Ductwork generally needs to be replaced every 10-15 years in Chicago. Although, there are other reasons you may want to consider having your ductwork replaced sooner. If you are experiencing issues with your indoor air quality or your air ducts have pests or dirt inside of them, your air ducts may need to be replaced. Additionally, if you are noticing an increase in your energy bills, it could be due to leaky or faulty air ducts. Regardless of the issue you are experiencing, you should have your ductwork inspected to evaluate the best solution for your home’s ductwork. Contact us today to get your ductwork inspected or replaced.  

All types of underground ductwork are prone to drainage issues and other problems with age. Our repair and assessment services are suitable for any of the above duct types.

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If you are experiencing issues with your underground ducts or have any questions pertaining to them, feel free to give one of our experts a call at 708-758-5070.