Playbook
Before Installing Flex
Use before connecting, cutting, strapping, routing, or insulating flex duct.
What this covers
You are installing flex to diffusers, boots, collars, boxes, or branch connections.
How to use this playbook
- Plan the route so the flex is short, supported, not kinked, and mechanically connected.
- Verify flex size, destination, airflow direction, and collar/boot connection.
- Cut flex cleanly and secure inner liner to collar first.
- Seal inner liner connection per project method.
- Pull insulation/jacket back over connection and secure outer jacket.
- Support flex so it does not sag, kink, crush, or make sharp bends.
- Ask before long loops, tight bends, crushed collar, or reroute around conflicts.
Check
- Collar/boot
- Flex route
- Support straps
- Final connection before cover-up
Warnings
- Do not tie only the outer jacket.
- Do not leave the inner liner loose.
- Do not make sharp bends/kinks or use excessive length.
- Do not use flex to solve a coordination problem without direction.
Stop and ask
- Ask when flex route is too long, collar is blocked, ceiling conflicts exist, connection is inaccessible, or support method is unclear.