DIY Network

Duct Relocating and Chases From "DIY to the Rescue" episode DTTR-603

To make room, the DIY to the Rescue crew gets started by cutting back and relocating existing air ducts. Once the air ducts are relocated, it's time to build new chases to support and hide them.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

Materials:

drill
screws
utility knife
foil tape
2x4 framing wood
2x2 framing wood
measuring tape
nails
nailing gun
level
miter saw

Duct Relocating

1. To start, unscrew the air vent at the end of the first exposed duct (figure A).

2. Next, separate the duct from the boot using a utility knife (figure B) and use the drill to unscrew the metal straps that are holding the duct against the ceiling joists (figure C).

3. Shift the duct to its new location and mark lines in the ceiling where you want it to rest (figure D).

4. After marking a cut line, cut around the perimeter of the duct (figure E).

5. Using duct tape, refit and re-attach the metal boot to the duct and then use foil tape to seal the opening where the boot and duct meet.

6. Finally, slide the new duct in place and attach the boot to the joist (figure F).

Figure E

Figure F

	Figure G
	Figure H
	Figure I
	Figure J

Duct Chases

1. Start by measuring the length you want to span. It's helpful to make a cut list.

2. Use a four foot level to set the exact height for the corner of the chase (figure G).

3. Using the cut list and a miter saw, cut the long 2x4s for the long sides of the chase as well as the short 2x4s that will serve as studs inside the frame (figure H).

4. Nail the corner pieces together to get the outer frame.

5. After that, nail the inside studs to the frame, spacing them about a foot and a half apart. It's important to repeatedly check to make sure they're attaching flush (figure I).

6. Moving along, add nails through the chase and into the ceiling beam, checking for level as you go (figure J).

7. After making sure the frame is level, nail up the support studs. A few nails in the sides, and a few 'toe nailed' at an angle, for added strength. After toe nailing, follow up with a hammer to pound the exposed nail into the wood (figure K).

8. Down the sides, nail up the supports and hammer in the exposed nail to keep the surface smooth. When you reach the corner, install 2x2s and a few other 2x4s, giving the chase even more support (figure L). Now it's time to address pipes.

9. Hold the 2x4 in place next to the pipe and make your marks on the joists. After you snap a straight chalk line to connect the two points, position the 2x4 in place against the line (figure M).

Figure K

Figure L

Figure M

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