I have to say, there's nothing like a cooling facial when entering an attic space.
Alright, it wasn't a really hot day, but very sunny and the attic space heated up nicely. The blast of cool air on my face was welcome!
Looking to my left I saw why.
The "brand new" HVAC system had a long trunk in the attic, and attached to it were many smaller ducts going off to each side to service the upstairs rooms.
It was well done, as far as design goes.
But in such a design the connections are very, very relevant, especially long term.
This service duct has only been attached a short while! How will the other ones act long term?
What's the basic problem?
See the metal teeth? That is a connector, designed to fit efficiently and firmly into the side of the metal service trunk.
Once that inter-locking connection is made, and then taped, the insulated duct can be attached. Usually those smaller ducts are attached with ratcheting nylon straps.
When well done, it is strong and long lasting.
The tape isn't used to connect. It is used to seal holes from leakage.
In this case, the teeth and trunk were never interlocked. The taped connection (and, wow, at least they used aluminum tape, NOT duct tape!) was not enough to handle air pressure and the whole thing popped off. I felt one more nearby and it was similarly taped. I could not feel the interlocking connection. I could feel tape!
Well, at least this attic won't be as hot in the summer and as cold in the winter as, oh, mine for instance! Unintended consequence, but at least there's some benefit here!
I'm joking of course. It's a
BIG BUMMER!
Now a PROFESSIONAL will have to get in there, remove all the connections, and do it right! How fun! I love attic spaces too!
My recommendation: it's the same old, same old. Just because it's new doesn't mean it is right. And how do we find out if it's right, class? Exactly! We call a home inspector. He will give you an objective and honest assessment.
Jay Markanich Real Estate Inspections, LLC 
Based in Bristow, serving all of Northern Virginia
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