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Apprentice Q&A · #215

How do I fix a Pittsburgh seam that was not knocked down and is leaking?

1st YearDuct AssemblyGREEN · Standard Correction

A Pittsburgh seam leak usually needs the mechanical seam completed first, then sealed. Do not try to fix an open pocket seam with mastic alone.

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Plain-English answer

If the Pittsburgh pocket never got knocked down, the duct may whistle because the mechanical lock was never finished. Sealant over an unfinished seam is a cover-up, not a real correction.

The field fix is to safely access the seam, support the duct if needed, finish folding/closing the pocket lip with the proper hand or air tool, then seal the completed seam per the job standard. If the seam is damaged, kinked, or inaccessible, stop and get direction before beating on it.

Field checklist

Ask Foreman

The Pittsburgh seam at [location] was not knocked down for about [length]. I checked access and panel support. Do you want me to finish the seam and seal it, or replace/correct the section if it is damaged?

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Verify before acting

Use this as training guidance. The foreman, approved drawings, project specs, manufacturer installation instructions, employer safety policy, and AHJ/code requirements always control the final answer.

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