Duct Insulation

[urbs]

I live in the mid west near Chicago and I was wondering what kind of insulation to use to surround the heat and cooling ducts? I have seen special wrap for them but it looks like regular house fiberglass insulation just thinner. From an unfinished basement, can I use household insulation around duct work that’s in between the joist and enclosed the area with sheet metal?

Jack

[sluciani]

Household insulation is fine , as long as it has a good vapor barrier{preferably foil} The fiberglass type normally used on ductwork comes on rolls 4 ft. wide, which is good for larger ducts.
I believe the latest standard calls for at least R-6. There is at least one company making a product that looks like bubble wrap with a foil coating. You might find this easier to work with.