Ductwork Replacement Cost Calculator
Ductwork replacement is priced by the size of the home and how hard the ducts are to reach. Enter your home's square footage to estimate.
Most homeowners pay $3,600 to $7,400 for 2,000 sq ft, sheet metal.
Your estimate
- Materials and labor
- Add-ons
National installed prices, materials and labor included. Your local quotes may differ.
Ductwork replacement cost by option
Installed totals (based on 2,000 sq ft), with standard conditions included.
| Option | Typical total |
|---|---|
| Flexible duct | $2,400 to $5,000 |
| Duct board | $2,800 to $6,000 |
| Sheet metal | $3,600 to $7,400 |
Installed price per unit
| Option | Installed price |
|---|---|
| Flexible duct | $1.20 to $2.50 per sq ft |
| Duct board | $1.40 to $3.00 per sq ft |
| Sheet metal | $1.80 to $3.70 per sq ft |
What drives the price
- MaterialSheet metal lasts longest and has the least airflow resistance. Flex duct is cheaper and faster to install.
- AccessAttics and crawlspaces are harder and hotter to work in, which adds labor.
- DesignA proper duct design (Manual D) sizes each run so rooms heat and cool evenly.
- SealingLeaky ducts waste conditioned air. Sealing and insulating improves efficiency.
How this estimate works
The calculator multiplies your home size by the installed price range for the option you pick, adjusts it for the conditions you set, then adds any extras you tick. The headline number is the midpoint of your range. Low-end prices fit simple jobs in lower-cost areas. High-end prices fit complex jobs, premium brands and high-cost metros.
Get at least three written quotes before you hire. Ask each contractor to list materials, labor, permits and disposal separately so you can compare them line by line. Read how we build our ranges.
Common questions
How long does ductwork last?
Sheet metal ducts can last several decades. Flex duct often needs replacement sooner.
Signs your ducts need replacing
Uneven room temperatures, high energy bills, visible damage and excessive dust are common signs.
Should ducts be replaced with a new AC?
If ducts are undersized or leaky, fixing them lets the new system reach its rated efficiency.
Sources and method
Price ranges are national installed estimates maintained by the HouseMath editorial team and last reviewed September 2026. For the labor side of the job, see the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics data for sheet metal workers (SOC 47-2211), which shows how trade wages differ by state.