HVAC
How to Bid Ductwork Installation and Replacement
How to bid ductwork installation and replacement: linear feet, material, registers, insulation and access.
Ductwork bids fail on access. A clean attic is a half-day job; a tight crawl space turns every joint into an hour of contortion.
THE SHORT ANSWER
How do you bid ductwork installation?
Measure linear feet (120-200 ft typical), count registers, choose flexible or rigid duct, factor access difficulty and removal, then add insulation. Full replacement runs $1,500-$5,000.
Measure the runs and count registers
Measure the total linear feet of ductwork and count return and supply registers. A typical home runs 120-200 ft with 3-5 returns and 10-14 supplies.
Choose rigid or flexible
Flexible duct is faster and cheaper ($3.50-$5/ft); rigid sheet metal lasts longer and stays cleaner ($7-$12/ft). Mixed systems are common — price each run type separately.
Factor access and removal
Attics with walkable decking are easy; tight crawl spaces add 20-50% labor. Removing old ductwork is a separate line item.
Add insulation and registers
Insulated duct in unconditioned spaces adds $1-$2/ft. Registers run $80-$150 each supply, $150-$300 each return. Use the Ductwork Installation Cost Calculator to check your total.