Static field route #381

What do I do when using hammer where duct stretcher or clamp is needed?

Tools, Fasteners, Hardware & Material HandlingTools / hardware starter — verify approved material and method

If alignment needs control, use the right clamp, duct stretcher, vise grips, or alignment tool instead of beating the joint with a hammer.

Open in Field Rescue Open category

Field checklist

Identify why the joint will not line up.
Check if metal is bent, wrong size, or out of square.
Use clamps/duct stretcher where appropriate.
Protect flanges/finished edges.
Ask before forcing a bad joint closed.

Ask foreman

Do you want a duct stretcher/clamp here, or is this piece wrong/damaged?

Do not

Do not hammer a duct joint into place when the problem is alignment, wrong part, or damaged material.

Why it matters

A hammer can hide the problem while creating leaks, dents, and bad-looking work.

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