Exposed Architectural Duct ยท Exposed Architectural

Exposed rooftop-to-interior transition

Visible roof penetration

ConnectionWeather-rated exterior + architectural interior joint
SupportCurb/structure supports

Before you start

  • Confirm curb, roof opening, flashing, insulation, vapor barrier, condensation control, exterior weather joint, interior architectural finish, and structural support.
  • Coordinate roofer, insulator, sheet-metal installer, and interior finish responsibilities before installation.
  • Verify the curb is not expected to carry duct loads it was not designed for.
  • Inspect the transition and penetration components for water-shedding orientation and finish damage.

Tools and materials

Exterior weather-rated duct and transition components, interior architectural trim, curb and structural supports, approved flashing and seal materials, insulation and vapor-barrier components, soft lifting equipment, fall protection, laser, level, and cleaning supplies.

Lay it out

  1. Align the roof penetration with the interior sightline and finished reveal.
  2. Plan exterior drainage and water shedding away from the opening.
  3. Coordinate insulation and vapor-barrier continuity through the full transition.

Set and support it

  1. Support the exterior and interior duct independently from approved structure.
  2. Protect the roof membrane and finished interior surfaces.
  3. Hold the transition centered through the curb without transferring unintended load.

Make the connection

  1. 1

    Set the curb and roof opening to the approved detail.

  2. 2

    Install the exterior weather-rated transition and support.

  3. 3

    Bring the interior duct into alignment with the visible room layout.

  4. 4

    Complete the approved exterior and interior joints.

  5. 5

    Continue insulation and vapor barrier through the penetration.

  6. 6

    Install clean interior trim and complete flashing or weather seals.

  7. 7

    Inspect for water, air, vapor, and finish continuity.

Check the install

  • The roof penetration is weather-tight.
  • The interior reveal is centered and clean.
  • Insulation and vapor barrier remain continuous.
  • The curb carries only the intended load.
  • No condensation path, water pocket, or visible finish defect remains.

Common mistakes

  • Aligning the roof opening without checking the interior sightline.
  • Stopping insulation or vapor barrier at the curb.
  • Letting the curb carry the duct run.
  • Finishing interior trim before weatherproofing and support are verified.

Stop and ask

Stop if the roofing, condensation, insulation, vapor-barrier, curb-load, or interior-finish detail is incomplete or uncoordinated.