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Sheet Metal Ductwork Installation Cost Florida
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Sheet metal ductwork remains the industry’s most durable and high-performance option for air distribution in residential and commercial HVAC systems across Florida. Whether you are upgrading an old duct system, installing new ductwork for a construction project, or preparing a bank-ready HVAC estimate, understanding the real cost of sheet metal duct installation is essential. At Estimate Florida Consulting, we prepare highly accurate, detail-rich, and professionally structured HVAC ductwork estimates that include material takeoff, linear foot calculations, fittings, transitions, labor pricing, and Florida-specific mechanical code requirements.
Sheet metal ducts are preferred for long-run airflow stability, energy efficiency, and long-term durability—making them the top choice for high-quality HVAC installations. But because sheet metal requires more fabrication, cutting, sealing, and labor, the cost per linear foot is higher than flexible ducts.
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Average Sheet Metal Ductwork Installation Cost in Florida
Sheet metal duct installation costs more than flexible ductwork because it requires specialized fabrication, sheet metal tools, sealed joints, and precise installation. In Florida, where hot attics and high humidity place extra stress on duct systems, sheet metal is valued for its durability and high airflow efficiency.
Average Cost Per Linear Foot in Florida:
$20 – $45 per linear foot
(Material + labor + fittings + sealing)
Breakdown:
✔ Material cost: $8 – $18 per LF
✔ Labor cost: $12 – $27 per LF
Florida’s labor market, attic heat levels, and code requirements may increase the upper range of pricing.
Total Sheet Metal Duct Installation Cost in Florida
Most residential homes require 180–350 linear feet of ductwork depending on size, layout, and number of vents.
- Total Cost: $3,600 – $15,000+
(Low to high depending on home size and system complexity)
Homes in Florida with large open floor plans, high ceilings, and 5-ton systems require bigger ducts and more transitions, increasing overall cost.
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Sheet Metal Ductwork Installation Florida
Home Size | Linear Feet Needed | Total Cost Range |
1,200 sq ft | 160–240 LF | $3,200 – $10,000 |
1,500 sq ft | 180–260 LF | $3,600 – $11,700 |
1,800 sq ft | 200–300 LF | $4,200 – $13,200 |
2,000 sq ft | 220–320 LF | $4,800 – $14,400 |
2,500 sq ft | 260–380 LF | $5,500 – $17,100 |
What Affects Sheet Metal Ductwork Installation Cost in Florida?
1. Duct Size & HVAC System Tonnage
Sheet metal duct sizing directly impacts price because larger ducts use more steel, require more fabrication, and demand additional labor to hang and seal. A 3-ton Florida HVAC system may use 8”–14” duct sections, while a 5-ton system frequently requires 10”–16” main trunks. Larger diameters also require heavier gauge steel and more advanced fabrication techniques. Proper sizing is essential in Florida’s climate because undersized ducts restrict airflow under heavy cooling load, lowering system efficiency. Larger tonnage = larger ducts = higher cost.
2. Insulation Requirements in Florida
Florida’s HVAC code requires ducts in unconditioned spaces (attics, garages, crawlspaces) to have proper insulation to prevent heat gain. Sheet metal ducts require external insulation, which increases cost per linear foot. Most Florida installations use:
✔ R-6 insulation wrap
✔ R-8 insulation for high-heat attics
The insulation must be tightly wrapped, sealed, and strapped, adding 30–40% additional labor time. Because Florida attics can reach 120°F+, insulation is essential for cooling efficiency. Higher insulation levels increase material and labor cost but significantly improve long-term system performance.
3. Attic Conditions & Installation Difficulty
Florida homes often have low attic clearances, thick truss webs, and extreme summer heat—making sheet metal duct installation more challenging. Even though sheet metal provides excellent durability, its rigid form requires careful maneuvering, which increases labor hours in tight attic spaces. If installers must remove old ducts, navigate around plumbing and wiring, or work in confined zones, labor costs rise. Attic heat also slows work speed for safety reasons. Difficult access = higher labor cost per linear foot.
4. Number of Supply Vents & Returns
Every supply vent requires a metal branch connection, boot, collar, and sealed transition. More vents mean more fabrication, cutting, sealing, and labor. A typical Florida 3-bedroom home has 8–12 supply vents and at least 1–2 returns, but newer Florida homes often have larger returns for improved cooling. Because metal ducts require more customization per vent, the total count significantly impacts cost. Homes with zoned systems or multi-story layouts require even more duct runs.
5. Removal of Old Ductwork
Replacing old ductwork adds cost because technicians must detach, cut, and dispose of the old system safely. Florida homes built 15–25 years ago often have deteriorated insulation, loose joints, or collapsed ducts due to attic heat and humidity. Removing old sheet metal or flexible duct can add $2–$6 per LF in removal labor. Mold, pests, or damaged insulation also require extra safety steps. Professional estimates include removal cost to avoid unexpected expenses.
6. Code Compliance, Sealing & Energy Efficiency Requirements
Florida Building Code (FBC) requires HVAC ducts to be properly sealed using UL-rated mastic or foil tape to ensure air-tightness. Sheet metal ducts require additional sealing at each joint, elbow, and transition to prevent air leakage. Energy audits or duct blaster tests may be required for new installations or remodels. Meeting Florida’s code standards adds material cost but ensures improved cooling performance and better energy efficiency in high-humidity climates.
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Sheet Metal Ductwork Material Cost Breakdown
1. Galvanized Metal Duct Sections
(Prices per linear foot)
- 6″: $6 – $8
- 8″: $7 – $10
- 10″: $8 – $13
- 12″: $10 – $15
- 14″: $12 – $18
- 16″: $14 – $20
Larger ducts require heavier gauge metal, increasing cost.
2. Fittings, Elbows & Transitions
- Adjustable elbows: $15 – $45
- Wye fittings: $12 – $40
- Reducers: $8 – $25
- Take-offs: $6 – $18
Sheet metal systems require multiple fittings for proper airflow.
3. External Duct Insulation Wrap
- R-6: $1.50 – $2.50 per LF
- R-8: $2.00 – $3.50 per LF
- Straps + fasteners: $0.75 – $1.50 per LF
Insulation is essential to reduce heat gain in Florida attics.
4. Mastic, Sealants & Foil Tape
- $100 – $300 per system
- Required for code-compliant sealing
Material Total:
👉 $500 – $3,000+ depending on home size, duct diameter & fittings required
Sheet Metal Ductwork Labor Cost Breakdown in Florida
Labor is the largest cost factor because sheet metal installation requires:
✔ Measuring & cutting sheet metal
✔ Assembling sections
✔ Sealing every joint
✔ Attic maneuvering
✔ Installing supports
✔ Insulating ducts
✔ Balancing airflow
Florida HVAC Labor Rates:
- $55 – $110 per hour (higher due to heat & skill requirements)
Labor Cost Per LF:
- $12 – $27 per linear foot
Total Labor Cost:
👉 $1,800 – $8,000+
depending on accessibility and system complexity.
Sheet Metal Ductwork vs Flexible Ductwork Cost (Florida)
Duct Type | Cost Per LF | Best Use | Notes |
Sheet Metal Ductwork | $20–$45 | Long runs, efficiency | Best airflow, longest lifespan |
Flexible Ductwork | $8–$20 | Branch runs | Cheaper, easier to install |
Ductboard | $15–$32 | Trunk lines | Good insulation, moderate durability |
Sheet metal is the premium option, especially for Florida homes wanting superior airflow.
Signs You Need Sheet Metal Ductwork Installation or Replacement
1. Poor Airflow or Uneven Cooling
If your Florida home struggles to cool evenly, metal ducts may be required for longer, high-volume airflow runs. Rigid ducts eliminate sagging and improve static pressure performance.
2. Excessive Air Leakage
Old ducts often leak 20–30% of conditioned air into Florida’s hot attics. Metal ducts reduce leakage and improve efficiency significantly when sealed properly.
3. Mold, Dust, and Humidity Problems
Poorly insulated ducts accumulate condensation in Florida’s humid climate, increasing the chance of mold growth. Sheet metal ducts with insulation provide better moisture resistance.
4. High Energy Bills
Inefficient ducts force the HVAC system to work harder. Upgrading to sealed sheet metal reduces energy consumption.
Why Choose Estimate Florida Consulting?
✔ Professional HVAC estimating
✔ Linear foot takeoff for sheet metal ducts
✔ Full mechanical cost breakdown
✔ Lender-ready and contractor-ready estimates
✔ Florida-specific code compliance
✔ Material, labor, fittings, insulation & sealing included
✔ Accurate pricing for all Florida cities
✔ Helps contractors bid accurately
✔ Helps homeowners budget confidently
We provide complete mechanical system estimation for new construction, replacements, renovations, and bank loan submissions.
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Request Your Sheet Metal Ductwork Estimate Today
We provide estimating services for:
✔ Sheet metal ductwork installation
✔ HVAC duct replacement
✔ Mechanical takeoff services
✔ MEP estimating for Florida homes
✔ Residential & light commercial systems
✔ Bank loan documentation
Question Answer
Frequently Asked Question
In Florida, sheet metal ductwork installation typically costs $20–$45 per linear foot, including materials, labor, fittings, sealing, and insulation. Total system costs usually range from $3,600 to $15,000+ depending on home size and complexity.
Sheet metal costs more because it requires custom fabrication, precise cutting, sealed joints, external insulation, and skilled labor. However, it delivers better airflow, longer lifespan, and higher efficiency, making it ideal for Florida’s hot, humid climate.
Most Florida homes need 180–350 linear feet of ductwork.
Average total cost ranges:
1,200 sq ft home: $3,200 – $10,000
1,500 sq ft home: $3,600 – $11,700
2,000 sq ft home: $4,800 – $14,400
2,500 sq ft home: $5,500 – $17,100
Major cost factors include:
Duct size & HVAC tonnage
Insulation level (R-6 or R-8)
Attic accessibility & heat conditions
Number of vents and returns
Removal of old ductwork
Code-compliant sealing and testing
Amount of fittings, transitions, and custom fabrication
Removing old ductwork in Florida adds $2–$6 per linear foot, depending on attic difficulty, mold issues, debris, and insulation conditions.
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02
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