What to Know Before Getting New Ductwork Installed in Your Home

Got that one room in your house that’s always freezing? Or maybe there’s another that feels like a sauna year-round? When your energy bill climbs but everything else stays the same, faulty ductwork is often the missing link.

Whether you’re planning a renovation, building from the ground up, or just want your HVAC system to finally work right, getting new ductwork installed could be a total game-changer. Wondering what actually happens during ductwork installation? We’ve got you covered—here’s a clear look at what to expect every step of the way.

At Lakeshore Air Duct Cleaning, we’ve helped homeowners from Muskegon to Holland upgrade their duct systems with zero stress and solid results. Here's a breakdown of what it looks like from start to finish.

1. First Up: A Home Walkthrough

Before we break out tools or start any work, we swing by for a walkthrough. It helps us understand how well your current airflow is working—and where improvements are needed.

We’ll check out spots like your attic, crawlspace, or basement and look for signs of restricted airflow, damage, or outdated layouts that could be overworking your HVAC system. If your home already has existing ductwork, we’ll evaluate which parts are still in good shape—and which ones need to go.

We’ll probably ask you a few easy questions—like when your system was last serviced or if you notice temperature swings between rooms. Knowing that info helps us fine-tune a system that matches how you use your home every day.

No prep needed on your end. Just unlock the doors and we’ll take care of the rest.

2. A Custom Plan, Made for Your Home

After we’ve scoped out the space, we’ll draw up a clear plan designed specifically for your home. No cookie-cutter solutions here.

We’ll explain whether you’d benefit more from rigid ducts, flexible ones for tighter areas, or a mix of both. Every piece has a purpose, and we make sure you understand how it all fits together. We also show how it ties into your current HVAC system and what kind of improvements to expect.

No jargon. No pressure. Just a plain-English explanation and a solid plan.

3. Installation Day: What Actually Happens

Here’s how things typically go down on install day:

• We arrive right when we say we will and walk you through the day’s game plan, so you know exactly what to expect.
• If needed, we’ll move through your home carefully, protecting furniture and flooring as we go
• Old ductwork? We’ll remove it cleanly and quietly as possible
• Expect some light construction sounds—drills, a few thuds, the usual
• Throughout the day, we check in so you know exactly where things stand

Depending on your home’s size and layout, the job could be done in a single day—or stretch into two or three. Either way, we keep things tidy and work quickly without sacrificing quality.

4. What You Don’t Need to Worry About

Many homeowners ask us:

• Will I need to leave while the work is being done? Not at all. As long as we can access the necessary areas, you’re welcome to stay comfortably at home. We’ll keep everything safe and contained.
• Will I lose heating or air conditioning? Only temporarily. We’ll always let you know in advance if there will be a brief period when your HVAC needs to be shut off.
• Will you clean up after? Absolutely. We treat your home like it’s our own. You won’t be left with debris, drywall dust, or a mess to handle.

5. Testing & Fine-Tuning

We stick around after installation to make sure everything is working exactly as it should. We test airflow from every vent, balance the system for even distribution, and double-check that everything’s sealed and functioning the way it should.

If we notice anything off—like weak airflow or a noisy vent—we fix it on the spot. Our goal? A system that runs smoothly and makes every room feel just right.

6. Final Walkthrough & Wrap-Up

Before we head out, we’ll do one last walkthrough with you. If we had to cut into any drywall or ceilings, we’ll patch it up or guide you through what needs to happen next.

We leave your home clean, your ductwork tested, and your questions fully answered.

Time & Cost: What You Can Expect

For most homes in Muskegon, Grand Haven, or Holland, a duct installation takes between 1 and 3 days. Larger homes or tricky layouts can take a bit longer.

As for cost, you’ll get a detailed, upfront estimate before any work begins—so you always know exactly what to expect, with no last-minute surprises.

Post-Installation Care: How to Maintain Your New Ductwork for Lasting Performance

A good duct system doesn’t need constant attention, but a little maintenance goes a long way. Here’s what we recommend:

• Swap your HVAC filters regularly—every few months
• Get a duct inspection every 2 years to catch any wear or gaps
• Plan for a professional duct cleaning every few years—ideally every 3 to 5—especially if you have pets, allergy concerns, or just want to keep your air as clean as possible.

Your new ducts should keep running efficiently for years. If anything comes up later, you know where to find us.

Your Local Experts: Why West Michigan Homeowners Trust Lakeshore Air Duct Cleaning

We’re not a chain—we’re your neighbors. At Lakeshore Air Duct Cleaning, families across Muskegon, Grand Haven, and Holland count on us for honest work and real results.

From historic homes to new builds, we treat every space with care. We explain the process, focus on comfort, and make your home more efficient—one room at a time. Take the first step toward a more comfortable home—call us today!