As an expert in the field of HVAC, I have encountered many individuals using duct putty as a sealant for their ducts. However, I must caution you that duct putty is not the best option for this purpose. Despite having a UL mark, which is typically associated with high-quality products, duct putty is not designed or marketed for sealing duct entrances containing electrical or communication cables. It is primarily used for sealing junction boxes.
So, if you're wondering whether you can use duct seal instead of plumber's putty, the answer is no. There are various types of duct sealants, and while duct sealing putty is one of the best, it is not the most suitable option for sealing ducts. It may have a soft consistency similar to putty, making it easy to handle and install, but it is primarily used for sealing holes and leaks. Duct sealing putty is perfect for blocking dust, moisture, noise, and air movement that come out of duct holes.
It works better than masking tape and is ideal for sealing small cracks and gaps. However, it is not designed to seal plumbing leaks. Duct putty is commonly used to seal electrical and telecommunications ducts worldwide. On the other hand, plumber's putty is designed to repel water and create an airtight seal.
However, it is not suitable for areas that experience significant water pressure. In fact, very few of the vitally important pipelines in nuclear power plants are sealed with pipeline putty. UL-rated duct seals are often classified based on the surface combustion characteristics of general-purpose tapes. While plumber's putty can be used to seal faucets during plumbing installation, it is not suitable for sealing threaded or threadless water supply pipes that experience water pressure.
Duct putty, on the other hand, can be easily molded by hand to form an infinite variety of shapes that are pressed to seal HVAC ducts, hence its name as duct putty. It can also be used by plumbers to protect areas with electrical connections or to ensure that outlets and switches are safe from nearby water sources. So, if you're wondering how to use duct sealant to make your HVAC system more efficient, read on as I reveal all the secrets behind duct sealing putty and how to use it. Over time, the performance of putty joints for ducts tends to decrease due to shrinkage and sagging factors.
This makes them relatively weak and prone to cracks, which can allow water, gas, and other contaminants to enter. As a result, the cost of premature cable failure, electrical equipment failure, telecommunications equipment damage, damaged carpets and floors, and even drywall staining can add up. This is why it is crucial to consider the performance of a duct putty that has not yet cracked or sunk. Ultimately, the best solution is to specify alternative sealing products that meet the performance parameters suitable for the installation.
Closed cell foams or mechanical seals are some of the options that can provide better and more long-term sealing solutions for your ducts.