Can You Coat Fiberglass?

In this episode of the HVAC School Podcast, Bryan interviews Zach about duct coatings and their applications in HVAC systems, particularly focusing on the Hardcast RE500 product. The discussion delves into the importance of proper duct coating applications and their benefits for both contractors and customers. Zach, who has extensive experience in duct cleaning and restoration, shares his expertise on the proper application and benefits of duct coating systems.

The conversation explores how modern ductboard comes with a clear coat that offers some protection, but additional coating can provide significant benefits, especially in high-velocity areas near equipment. They discuss how coating creates a smoother, more cleanable surface that's almost comparable to sheet metal in terms of friction resistance. Zach emphasizes that coating should only be applied after proper cleaning, as it's not meant to cover up dirty ducts but rather to protect and improve cleaned surfaces.

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the practical applications for HVAC contractors, particularly during equipment changeouts. Bryan proposes the idea of coating the first 5-10 feet of ductwork near equipment during changeouts, as these areas experience the highest velocity and are most susceptible to fiber shedding and moisture issues. The conversation also addresses the cost-effectiveness of coating versus replacement, with the coating being approximately one-fourth to one-fifth the cost of replacement.

Key Topics Covered:

• Hardcast RE500 duct coating product and its applications
• Benefits of duct coating, including reduced friction, fiber containment, and improved cleanability
• The importance of proper surface preparation before coating application
• Comparison between coated ductboard and sheet metal surfaces
• Drying and curing times for duct coatings
• The relationship between duct cleaning and coating services
• Cost comparison between coating and replacement
• Special considerations for coastal environments
• NADCA certification and training requirements
• The importance of proper application techniques and professional certification
• Health and safety considerations regarding fiberglass ductwork
• The role of duct coating in preventative maintenance
• Application methods, including airless sprayer and brush/bucket techniques
• Quality control and industry standards for duct coating

Learn more about NADCA at https://nadca.com/.

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