Need to add duct in basement.

[barneyz71]

I need to add heat and air duct in my basement and I'm not sure what to use to cut the holes in the existing duct?
I will be cutting the holes on the top side of the duct between the floor joist and I need to know what works best for this.
Thanks

[Rich]

Not sure if you can find one but there are circular duct cutters. Here's one that cuts ductboard - http://www.malcotools.com/products/ductboard/fg1.htm

and here's one for metal ducts (notice a drill attaches to it) http://www.malcotools.com/products/metalduct/hc1.htm

[roger g]

What we have done before (if you can) is to remove the piece of ductwork and cut the hole with tin snips then attach the take off boot then put the sqaure duct back into place. The square ductwork is held together by "S" cleats and drive cleats which might not mean anything to you but it means that in most cases sections of duct can be removed from the middle of the duct run. It really isn't that hard but hard to explain. Trying to cut a hole on top of the duct.....now that is hard.
Another was is to cut a decernt size hole in the bottom of the square duct and cut the upper hole from the inside of the square duct then get a piece of sheet metal and screw it over the hole. You can use that same hole at lateer date to clean your ductwork.

Most take offs for runs are usually rectangular holes at least where I am.

roger

[rodster]

Is it recommended to put the hole for the new duct on the top or on the side of the duct. My existing duct seems to have a mix, but with most coming out the top.
thanks

[roger g]

Doesn't make any difference as far as air flow. By taking off the top you leave the sides of the main trunk clear so you can finish it off nicely. Taking it off the sides is easier when the main trunk is already installed but you won't be able to box in the trunk line very easy.



roger