Installer does not understand airflow consequences of shortcut
A shortcut that saves five minutes can cost a TAB day. Check airflow consequences before accepting sloppy install.
Watch out
- Do not treat “it fits” as the same as “it works.”
Check
- Name the shortcut: extra flex, tight offset, wrong fitting, closed damper, bad seal, blocked access.
- Ask whether it affects airflow, TAB, inspection, or service.
- Correct simple install issues before ceiling/insulation hides them.
- Document issues that need foreman/coordination approval.
- Do not normalize shortcuts just because the duct is connected.
Steps
- Name the shortcut: extra flex, tight offset, wrong fitting, closed damper, bad seal, blocked access.
- Ask whether it affects airflow, TAB, inspection, or service.
- Correct simple install issues before ceiling/insulation hides them.
- Document issues that need foreman/coordination approval.
- Do not normalize shortcuts just because the duct is connected.
Say this to your foreman
This shortcut at [location] might affect airflow/TAB. Do you want it corrected now or reviewed before we cover it?
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