Exposed flat-oval main
Architectural run
Before you start
- Confirm the flat-oval major-axis orientation, exposed seam side, support style, finish, joint type, and sightline.
- Inspect every section for side dents, broad-face collapse, twist, roll, and mismatched oval profiles.
- Mark the top and seam side before lifting.
- Coordinate symmetric hanger locations along the entire run.
Tools and materials
Exposed flat-oval duct, approved oval gasket or flange components, wide clean saddles or architectural cable supports, padded slings, laser, level, marker, clean gloves, approved fasteners and sealant, and finish-safe cleaning supplies.
Lay it out
- Laser the centerline and visible elevation.
- Mark a consistent major-axis orientation and seam side.
- Lay out hangers symmetrically and keep them off joints and weak fitting bodies.
Set and support it
- Use wide hidden or clean saddles that support the broad face.
- Balance cable or rod supports so the duct cannot roll.
- Handle with padding and more than one control point.
Make the connection
- 1
Set the first section to the visual line and correct axis orientation.
- 2
Bring the second section to the same plane without flattening the sides.
- 3
Match the full oval profile around the joint.
- 4
Complete the gasketed or flanged connection evenly.
- 5
Install visible fasteners consistently and seal neatly.
- 6
Load both supports and verify the section does not rotate.
- 7
Clean all visible surfaces.
Check the install
- The major axis and seam side remain consistent.
- The duct has no roll, side dent, or flattened broad face.
- Hangers are symmetric and visually balanced.
- Joints remain centered and evenly seated.
- The long sightline stays straight.
Common mistakes
- Using narrow supports that pinch the sides.
- Rotating one section to make a joint fit.
- Allowing one cable leg to pull the duct out of level.
- Trying to hide a distorted section in the middle of an exposed run.
Stop and ask
Stop for oval distortion, mismatched profiles, asymmetrical supports, or any connection that requires twisting or flattening the duct.