Frequently Asked Questions.
Is Duct Armor safe?
Yes. Our proprietary Duct Armor product is water-based, non-toxic, and environmentally safe. It has a high zinc content to prevent mold growth and is comprised of over 50% adhesives. It has a NFPA Class A fire rating. It will dry to a rubber-like coating. It contains no VOC’s (volatile organic compounds) so there is no out-gassing of bad stuff in the short or long term. You can stay in your home as we apply it, and you will be using your HVAC before our technicians pull away from your property
What are the signs that I might have mold in my house or building?
Molds emit spores and chemicals as part of their normal life cycle. Individuals may exhibit reactions when exposed to these materials. Spores emitted by molds are microscopic and once airborne can be inhaled easily. Spores may contain allergens and can cause irritation in the nose, throat and respiratory tract. Common allergic reactions include sneezing, nasal congestion, coughing, and skin rashes. Molds may also trigger asthma attacks in persons who are allergic.
In addition to allergens, molds may emit microbiological volatile organic compounds (MVOC’s). These chemicals usually have a strong and unpleasant odor and are associated with the musty smell that many individuals equate to mold being present. These chemicals are released into the air and when inhaled, can also cause allergic reactions. MVOC’s have also been linked to headaches, nausea, dizziness and fatigue.
Some molds may produce toxic substances called mycotoxins. Mycotoxins can be inhaled, ingested or absorbed through the skin. Mycotoxins are potent, toxic chemicals that can cause significant health problems. Different molds may product different mycotoxins depending on the surface on which they are growing. Mycotoxins can affect the central nervous system, the immune system, the respiratory system and the digestive system. Some molds may cause more severe reactions than other molds, so it is important that mold be remediated. For any severe exposures or health effects associated with a mold exposure, individuals should consult their physician. (Mold Advisory Bulletin, September 2004 from NJ Department of Health & Senior Services)
Who is the typical Duct Armor customer?
The Duct Armor product has been applied in thousands of applications across the country for over twelve years. These include small homes, estates, banks, office buildings, high rise commercial buildings, restaurants, hotels, schools and universities. Regardless of the problem that originally brought Duct Armor to their attention, every one of our customers is appreciating the benefits of an improved infrastructure, great indoor air quality and reduced energy costs as a result of implementing the Duct Armor Solution.
What is Transite and why is it a problem?
Transite originated as the trade name that the Johns-Manville Corporation (originally in Manville, NJ) created for a line of asbestos-cement products. In time, it becomes something of a generic term for other companies’ similar asbestos-cement products. This material was made with cement and varying amounts (12-50%) asbestos fiber. From the 1950’s through the early 1980’s, many slab construction homes in New Jersey used Transite to fabricate in-floor HVAC ducts. Trenches were dug, the Transite ducts were placed in the ground, the slab was poured over the top, and then the furnace was connected and the vents put in place.
After 30 to 65 years of being subjected to the hot and cold blowing air through them, the Transite cement has experienced some level of deterioration. You might see this as a fine, white power-like substance in the ducts or around the floor vents.
Will Duct Armor fix my leaky air ducts and save energy?
Yes. According to the US Department of Energy, between 10-50% of conditioned air is lost during transit through the air ducts. Leaky air ducts is a recognized problem, especially in hard-to-reach or otherwise inaccessible spaces. Business owners and home owners are spending a great deal of money to purchase Energy Star Rated furnaces and air conditioners, and they are losing that efficiently conditioned air through leaky duct work. Don’t forget to seal your ducts from the inside, with Duct Armor.
Will it work on flex systems?
It really is not intended for flex. There are certain circumstances where it will work, but our process is intended to be a full encapsulation of the interior of the ductwork. If there are large holes (over 1/2″-3/4″), our spray liner will just blow out into the open framing. If the flex is in an exposed attic, its usually best to replace it. There have been instances where we have found flex inside walls or soffits that only had minor holes. We have sprayed those and it worked just fine. The larger holes (from rodent intrusion, etc.) need to have some structure behind them for our material to adhere to.
Duct Armor can be applied to all shapes of air duct work since it’s a spray on application.
Duct Armor comes with a 15 year warranty.
What if I have rusty ducts?
If you see rust on the outside of your ducts, in your duct vents, or inside your ducts, your air distribution infrastructure is in need of Duct Armor. Extended exposure to moisture is deteriorating your duct work and releasing allergens into your home or office. Duct Armor will arrest further deterioration and restore high indoor air quality.
What are my air ducts made of?
The majority of ductwork in the United States is made of rolled or galvanized steel, Transite (asbestos & cement), or sonotube.
Will your process replace the need for regular duct cleaning?
No. We recommend that you have your ducts cleaned by a professional duct cleaning service before applying Duct Armor, unless it has been done recently. In the future, you will still want to have your ducts cleaned to remove dust, dirt, and debris that can enter your system through normal operation or through the floor vents. Duct Armor will eliminate the need for any future mold treatment.