Plan your budget with our move-out cleaning cost guide, including base rates and additional services like junk removal and carpet cleaning.
Who Does Ductwork? Here’s Who You Should Hire
A ductwork contractor or an HVAC technician handles ductwork projects, delivering efficient airflow, safer installations, and cleaner indoor air
Photo: digidreamgrafix / Adobe Stock Photography
Photo: digidreamgrafix / Adobe Stock Photography
Highlights
Ductwork contractors offer ductwork design, installation, replacement, or repairs to keep conditioned air moving efficiently.
Main quote factors include system size and layout, vent placement, insulation needs, and code compliance requirements.
Upgrading or sealing ducts improves energy efficiency and supports healthier indoor air by reducing leaks and contamination.
Hiring a qualified pro reduces mistakes and delays, ensures testing and verification, and often includes warranty protection.
Verify training, certifications, license, insurance, and references before you choose a contractor or technician.
Get quotes from up to 3 pros!
Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you.
This article was created using automation technology and thoroughly fact-checked and edited by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.
If you are asking who does ductwork, the answer is ductwork contractors and HVAC technicians. Hiring a pro matters because correct sizing, sealed connections, and code-compliant work improve energy efficiency, airflow, and indoor air quality while protecting your HVAC system.
Before hiring, ask about training, HVAC certifications, license and liability insurance, code knowledge, references, timeline, pricing method, and whether the work includes a warranty or guarantee.
Benefits of Hiring a Ductwork Contractor for Ductwork Projects
Hiring a specialized ductwork contractor brings focused, day-to-day experience on duct systems. These pros complete precise, safe work that supports energy savings and healthier air. Purpose-built equipment and adherence to required regulations help prevent errors, delays, and costly rework.
Benefits include:
Access to professional ductwork tools and equipment
Proper sizing and sealing for better HVAC efficiency
Enhanced indoor air quality with fewer leaks and contaminants
Compliance with building codes and industry standards
Faster completion with fewer mistakes and delays
Potential warranty or guarantee on completed work
Everyday experience working on duct systems only
Sealed connections to prevent air leaks
Testing for airflow and proper operation after installation
Guidance to keep ducts performing well over time
If you’re unsure about tackling ductwork issues yourself or want to ensure everything is done to code, you might want to consider a ductwork repair pro near you to ensure the job is done safely and efficiently.
Can I Hire an HVAC Technician for Ductwork Projects?
While ductwork contractors focus primarily on ducts, HVAC technicians handle the entire heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system. They understand how duct layout and sealing interact with equipment, which helps improve overall performance and efficiency. They also diagnose airflow issues or inefficiencies caused by faulty components.
Choose a ductwork contractor for duct design, installation, or duct-specific repairs. Choose an HVAC technician when you want broader system assessment and optimization. Confirm experience with your duct type.
How Do Ductwork Contractors Work On Ductwork?
Here is how pros plan, install or replace, and verify ductwork for reliable performance:
Planning and assessment: Discuss your HVAC goals, home layout, and comfort needs. The contractor calculates duct size and layout, reviews vent placement, and evaluates insulation and ventilation requirements.
Installation or replacement: The contractor cuts and assembles duct sections, then seals every joint and connection to prevent air leaks. They use specialized tools and materials to connect and insulate securely.
Testing and wrap-up: After installation, they test the system for proper operation and code compliance, check for leaks, measure airflow, and share maintenance tips to keep everything running smoothly.
How Much Does Ductwork Installation Cost?
Ductwork installation averages $1,250, with homeowners paying between $450 and $2,200 on average. Labor represents 60% of project costs, with pros charging between $50 and $110 per hour. Total costs depend on the size of your ductwork system, accessibility, insulation, and other factors.
The homeowners guide to ducts & vents installations and replacements
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Budget for how much it costs to install a bathroom fan based on factors such as room size, fan type, features, noise level, labor, and more.
Learn about the cost of installing a new AC unit and explore factors influencing AC unit costs, such as unit size, type, SEER rating, and labor.
Who to call for an animal in your air vent? Learn when to hire an air duct specialist, wildlife removal, or pest control—and what costs to expect.
Wondering who cleans dryer vents and who to call? Learn which pros to hire, what they do, and key costs before you schedule.
Wondering who cleans air ducts? Learn whether to hire duct cleaners or HVAC pros, how they work, and what air duct cleaning costs.