Cold Surface Condensation Check
Bare cold duct, unsealed vapor barrier, or insulation gaps can sweat above ceilings and create staining, mold, or damage.
What This Helps With
Bare cold duct, unsealed vapor barrier, or insulation gaps can sweat above ceilings and create staining, mold, or damage.
Apprentice words: duct sweating, condensation on duct, bare cold duct, insulation gap
Common problem: Small exposed collars, boot corners, access doors, or cut insulation edges are left bare on cold supply air.
Check First
What Not To Do
Do not leave bare metal on cold supply if spec requires insulation. Do not wrap over wet surfaces without drying/correcting cause.
What can go wrong: Small exposed collars, boot corners, access doors, or cut insulation edges are left bare on cold supply air.
Better Foreman Question
This cold surface is exposed near the ceiling. Does it need insulation/vapor barrier before cover?
Verify With
Source to verify: Project insulation spec, energy code, manufacturer instructions
Safe wording: Condensation risk depends on climate, space humidity, duct temperature, and insulation spec.