Key takeaways
- Rigid metal is the smoothest and strongest
- Semi-rigid metal bends but keeps its shape
- Thin foil and vinyl crush and trap lint
- Check your manual and local code
Rigid metal
Smooth rigid duct gives lint the fewest places to catch and keeps its shape, so airflow stays strong. It is usually the first choice for the main run, especially inside walls and ceilings.
It takes more skill to fit, but joints are easy to seal with foil tape.
Semi-rigid metal
Semi-rigid metal duct bends into curves and holds its shape. It is a good choice for the short connection behind the dryer or for tight spots where rigid duct will not fit.
It has ridges, so it holds slightly more lint than rigid duct.
Foil and vinyl
Thin foil and vinyl duct are cheap and easy to install, but they crush, sag and tear, and their ridges trap lint. Many codes limit or prohibit them, especially in concealed spaces.
Our Duct Material Matcher helps you choose a type based on your layout.
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Quick answers
Can I use plastic duct?
Vinyl and plastic duct are not recommended and are often not allowed. They are easy to melt and easy to crush.
Should joints be screwed together?
Screws poke into the duct and catch lint. Foil tape and clamps are the preferred way to seal joints.
Ready to talk it through? Get a free quote or call 800-313-8481.