PolyArmor vs. Traditional Fiberglass & Elastomeric Duct Liner Insulations

Posted on April 16, 2025 by Ductmate Industries

While fiberglass and elastomeric duct liner insulation have traditionally dominated the market, Ductmate’s PolyArmor polyester insulation has emerged as a superior alternative, offering a compelling blend of performance, installation, and environmental benefits.

Fiberglass: The Traditional Choice with Limitations

Fiberglass insulation is known for its affordability and thermal resistance. However, it presents several drawbacks:

• Fiber Shedding: Fiberglass easily breaks down and releases microscopic fibers into the airstream, posing potential health risks and requiring careful handling and installation.   In time, this can lead to costly repairs and replacement of the insulation.
• Moisture Absorption: While fiberglass itself does not provide food for mold, when it does collect moisture, dust, dirt, and other organic debris trapped inside can act as a breeding ground for mold.
• Installation Challenges & Environmental Concerns: Installing fiberglass can be challenging, requiring specialized tools and protective gear.   During installation or if the insulation is disturbed, some individuals may experience temporary irritation of the skin, eyes, nose, and throat from both the fiberglass fibers and the formaldehyde released.
• Reduced Effectiveness: If fiberglass insulation is compressed, its thickness will go down, leading to a reduced overall R-value/thermal resistance.

Elastomeric: Flexibility and Moisture Resistance at a Cost

Elastomeric insulation, often favored for its flexibility and closed-cell structure, offers excellent moisture resistance and condensation control. However, it also comes with its own set of drawbacks and considerations:

• Higher Cost: Not only is elastomeric material more expensive compared to other insulation types, but it also can be up to four times more expensive to install.
• Installation Complexity: Proper elastomeric installation requires specialized adhesives and techniques that significantly increase installation and labor costs.
• Can Break Down: Over time, elastomeric, especially when exposed to exterior conditions, can break down due to factors like UV light and mechanical damage.  This can lead to costly repairs and replacement of the insulation.

PolyArmor: A Strong, Safe, and Superior Alternative

Ductmate’s PolyArmor polyester insulation is engineered to address the shortcomings of traditional insulation materials, offering a superior alternative with several compelling advantages:

• Fiber-Free and Safe: PolyArmor eliminates fiber shedding and does not break down in the airstream, creating a cleaner and healthier indoor environment.   Its polyester material is soft and hypoallergenic, eliminating irritation during handling that you would typically experience with fiberglass insulation.
• Superior Moisture Resistance: PolyArmor’s polyester construction provides exceptional resistance to moisture and condensation, minimizing the risk of mold growth.
• Easy Installation: Designed for ease of installation, PolyArmor reduces labor costs and installation time, with its flexible nature allowing it to conform to any duct shape.
• Enhanced Thermal Performance: PolyArmor provides industry-leading R-values/thermal resistance, contributing to increased energy efficiency and reduced system load.
• Durability and Longevity: PolyArmor is engineered from strong and safe polyester that is webbed into a thermal blanket, which is then bonded with an extremely durable FSK-facing that reduces damage during fabrication, operation, and cleaning.
• Environmental Benefits: Made with environmental sustainability in mind, PolyArmor is manufactured from 25% recycled content.

Quick Comparison Chart

Where Can I Buy PolyArmor?

Ready to buy PolyArmor?  Ductmate products are available at over 350 locations across the US as part of a selective distribution network.  Use the Ductmate distributor locator map to find a distributor near you.

Outside the US? Check out our international distributor list.  For detailed information on product availability, lead times, or other international sales requests, please email [email protected].

Variety of Ductmate Products Now GREENGUARD Gold Certified

Posted on February 17, 2025 by Ductmate Industries

Proven to comply with the world’s strictest and most comprehensive standards for low-volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in indoor air quality, a variety of Ductmate water-based adhesives, encapsulating edge coatings, and water-based sealants are now GREENGUARD Gold Certified!

What is a GREENGUARD Certification?

Ever wonder what the GREENGUARD logo means on a product? It’s more than just a sticker – it’s a symbol of cleaner, healthier indoor air. The GREENGUARD Certification process is rigorous, putting products through intense scientific testing to ensure they meet strict chemical emissions standards. Think of it as a quality check for the air you breathe.

UL GREENGUARD Certification gives manufacturers and retailers a powerful way to show they care about your health and the environment. It’s proof that their products release fewer harmful chemicals into your indoor spaces. In today’s market, where consumers are increasingly health-conscious, this certification offers a real edge, demonstrating a commitment to both people and the planet.

But there’s an even higher standard: GREENGUARD Gold Certification. Formerly known as GREENGUARD Children & Schools and GREENGUARD Select, this certification takes things a step further. It’s designed with extra safety factors to protect our most vulnerable populations, such as children and older people. When you see the GREENGUARD Gold logo, you know the product is suitable for even the most sensitive environments like schools, hospitals, healthcare facilities, and daycares. It’s truly the gold standard for indoor air quality.

Not only does GREENGUARD Gold limit emissions of over 360 volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and total chemical emissions, but it also meets the stringent requirements of the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Standard Method (also known as California Section 01350). This means these products have passed some of the toughest air quality tests in the country.

Which Ductmate Products are GREENGUARD Gold Certified?

Ductmate’s GREENGUARD Gold Certified products include a variety of our water-based adhesives (Gecko Glue Concentrate, Gecko Glue Gold, Gecko Glue Silver), our water-based sealants (PROseal, FIBERseal, EZseal, EVERseal, and PROseal Spray), and our Super Liner Seal (SLS) and LAG-IT encapsulating edge coatings.

Why is Indoor Air Quality Important?

People spend a staggering 90% of their time indoors. But what if the air we’re breathing inside is actually more polluted than the air outside? Shockingly, indoor air quality (IAQ) can be up to five times worse than outdoor air, posing a significant threat to our health and well-being.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ranks indoor air pollution among the top five environmental risks to public health. This isn’t just a minor concern; the World Health Organization estimates that a staggering 3.8 million people die prematurely each year from illnesses directly attributable to indoor air pollution.

The effects can be both immediate and long-term. In the short term, poor IAQ can manifest as headaches and irritation of the nose, eyes, and throat.  Furthermore, flare-ups of conditions like pneumonia and bronchitis can be triggered by indoor air pollutants.

The long-term effects are even more concerning. Prolonged exposure to poor IAQ can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Certain indoor pollutants are known carcinogens, contributing to the risk of lung cancer. Additionally, indoor air pollution can worsen existing respiratory issues like asthma, making breathing even more difficult.

What Made Ductmate Products a Good Fit for GREENGUARD Certification?

The products mentioned above were the perfect fit for the GREENGUARD Gold Certification because they meet strict chemical emissions standards.

• Low VOC Emissions: GREENGUARD Gold Certification requires products to have very low levels of VOC emissions. Ductmate products meet this standard, contributing to improved indoor air quality.
• UL 2818 Compliance: Ductmate products are tested and certified to meet the requirements of UL 2818, a standard for chemical emissions for building materials, finishes, and furnishings. This ensures that they are safe for use in indoor environments.
• LEED Compliant: GREENGUARD Gold Certified products can contribute to LEED credits, making them a sustainable choice for building projects.
• Health and Environmental Benefits: Ductmate’s GREENGUARD Gold Certified products can help improve the health and well-being of building occupants by reducing indoor air pollution. Additionally, they contribute to a healthier environment by minimizing the release of harmful chemicals.

Overall, Ductmate’s commitment to producing sustainable and low-emission products aligns well with the goals of GREENGUARD Gold Certification, making our products a valuable choice for those seeking to create healthier and more sustainable indoor environments.

Where Can I Buy Ductmate Products?

Ready to buy Ductmate’s GREENGUARD Gold Certified products?  Ductmate products are available at over 350 locations across the US as part of a selective distribution network.  Use the Ductmate distributor locator map to find a distributor near you.

Outside the US? Check out our international distributor list.  For detailed information on product availability, lead times, or other international sales requests, please email [email protected].

Problems Solved with DM ‘45’ for Industrial

Posted on August 21, 2024 by Ductmate Industries

When heavy-duty ductwork requires heavy-duty connections, the Ductmate ‘45’ connector system provides a better solution. Let DM ‘45’ solve your problems.

Heavy-duty Ductwork Connections Made Easy with the DM ‘45’ System

With the Ductmate ’45’ connector system, you can say goodbye to the days of struggling with traditional, labor-intensive methods for connecting heavy-duty industrial ductwork. This superior solution not only saves you time, money, and effort but also ensures exceptional performance, making your operations more efficient and cost-effective.

DM ’45’ is a revolutionary self-sealing rectangular duct connection system. Designed specifically for industrial applications where rigid, leak-free connections are critical, DM ’45’ is ideal for data centers, semiconductor plants, battery plants, wastewater treatment plants, chemical plants, oil rigs, stadiums and arenas, underground rail stations and subways, and much more!

The DM ’45’ System: Engineered for Seamless Duct Assembly

The DM ‘45’ system consists of the following precision-engineered components, offering a seamless assembly process:

• Roll-formed Flanges with Integral Mastic: These flanges ensure a tight seal against the duct wall for a superior, leak-proof connection. The integrated mastic eliminates the need for separate sealant applications, saving time and labor during assembly.
• Corner Pieces: These components reinforce the ductwork structure, holding everything together securely. Additionally, they provide a dedicated sealing surface for the gasket, further optimizing the system’s airtightness.
• Gasket: This essential element forms a vital barrier between the flanges, preventing air leaks and ensuring optimal airflow within the duct system.

• Cleats for Secure and Efficient Assembly:
  • Ductmate Versa-Cleat: This versatile cleat design guarantees consistent compression of the gasket along the entire length of the flange. This ensures a uniform and reliable seal throughout the ductwork.
  • Ductmate Bolt-On Cleat: This cleat option is specifically designed for larger duct spans and areas that are difficult to access. It provides a secure fastening solution even in challenging installation scenarios.

Why Choose DM ‘45’?

When it comes to performance, the DM ‘45’ system doesn’t disappoint.

The DM ’45’ system goes beyond just leak-free connections. Here’s what sets it apart:

• Unmatched Simplicity: Experience a faster, easier installation process compared to traditional methods. Forget about cutting, welding, painting, and drilling heavy black iron angles. DM ’45’ is a self-sealing, slide-on system that requires minimal assembly effort, relieving you from the burden of complex installation processes.  Watch the installation video below to see just how easy it is.

• Cost Savings: DM ‘45’s streamlined installation process translates to significant cost reductions, providing you with financial security and confidence in your investment. Welding expenses are eliminated, and overall labor costs are saved.
• Uncompromising Strength: Don’t be fooled by the ease of use. DM ’45’ is exceedingly strong, tested and proven to match the performance of a SMACNA Class K transverse joint, even without the use of external sealants. This ensures reliable connections for even the most demanding ductwork applications, giving you a sense of security, peace of mind, and confidence in its performance.
• Versatility for Any Project: DM ’45’ is suitable for a wide range of duct gauges (10 – 18 ga) and is available in various materials, including galvanized steel, aluminum, 316 stainless steel, and black iron. This lets you choose the perfect fit for your specific needs.
• Aesthetically Pleasing: Unlike bulky companion angles, DM ’45’ offers a clean and professional look. It enhances the overall aesthetics of your ductwork system and can be specified and used as an architectural feature.
• Guaranteed Performance: Ductmate stands behind the DM ’45’ system with rigorous testing and an industry-leading guarantee.  Enjoy free engineering assistance and duct construction information to reduce installation costs further.

Additionally, the DM ‘45’ boasts the following characteristics:

• 4-bolt corner and cleat combination are the safest, most efficient means of connecting large ducts on-site
• Sealing materials meet NFPA 90A & B Class 1 requirements
• Virtually no leakage at up to 12” WG positive pressure or down to 12” WG negative pressure
• Optional cut-to-length flange reduces fabrication time and scrap (additional cost, minimum quantities and size restrictions may apply)

Equal in strength to a SMACNA K Class 2-1/2” x 2-1/2” x 3/16” angle, the DM ‘45’ system has the strength you need to connect the biggest duct imaginable without the labor-intensive fabrication processes of drilling bolt holes, welding frames, or applying rust-proof coatings.

It’s no wonder why the DM ‘45’ has become the clear choice over the labor-intensive companion angle.

Where Can I Buy the DM ‘45’ System?

Ready to buy the DM ‘45’ system? Ductmate products are available at over 350 locations across the US as part of a selective distribution network.  Use the Ductmate distributor locator map to find a distributor near you and experience the difference that DM ’45’ can make in your next heavy-duty industrial ductwork project.

Outside the US? Check out our international distributor list.  For detailed information on product availability, lead times, or other international sales requests, please email [email protected].

Ductmate Sealants: The Top Choice for Quality & Labor Savings

Posted on June 3, 2024 by Ductmate Industries

Discover why Ductmate is the top choice for sealants when it comes to quality and labor savings.

What is Duct Sealant?

Duct sealant, also commonly referred to as mastic, is used to seal HVAC metal and metal joints to prevent air leakage from the duct.  While it is used to keep air in ductwork, it is also used to ensure that pollutants, such as dust, dirt, and water, stay out.

What Sealants Does Ductmate Offer?

Ductmate offers four high-performance, superior-quality water-based sealants in both premium and commercial grades.  Our premium-grade sealants are PROseal and FIBERseal, while our commercial-grade sealants are EVERseal and EZseal.

Ductmate sealants are low in VOCs, LEED compliant, CDPH compliant, UL-723 classified, and UL 181B-M listed. Testing reports are available upon request (contact Ductmate customer service for more information).

How to Choose the Right Sealant & What’s the Difference?

Both Ductmate’s premium and commercial grade sealants can seal ductwork up to 15” w.g.

Ductmate’s premium sealants, PROseal and FIBERseal, are high-velocity duct sealants and use premium polymers in their formulation.

Regardless of what grade you choose, Ductmate sealants are extremely resistant to cracking and will remain permanently flexible.  This is especially useful for applying sealant in the shop and then transporting it to other locations or a project site.

Need spray-on sealant? Try our PROseal Spray for shop applications and large projects. With PROseal Spray, you can quickly spray on the sealant instead of applying it with a brush, resulting in significant labor savings. PROseal Spray works easily with a wide variety of equipment (contact Ductmate customer service for more information).

How Are Ductmate Sealants Superior to the Competition?

Ductmate’s sealants are superior to the competition. Alongside excellent adhesion to metal, they have a lower brush drag, resulting in better spreadability and allowing for a more even and consistent coating, ensuring an airtight, leak-free seal.

Choosing Ductmate’s sealants over the competition will result in tremendous labor savings in the long run.  For over 40 years, Ductmate has been known for its quality reputation and product reliability, and our sealants are no exception.

Can Ductmate Sealants Be Used Outdoors?

Yes, Ductmate sealants can be used outdoors. Our water-based sealants have excellent water resistance, making them a perfect choice for outdoor applications such as rooftops and exterior ducts.

Can I Use Paint on Ductmate Sealants?

Yes, Ductmate sealants can be painted using water-based or epoxy-based paint. The sealant must be fully cured before painting. It is recommended to do a spot test first to ensure acceptable results before continuing.

Where Can I Buy Ductmate Sealants?

Ready to buy Ductmate sealants? Ductmate products are available at over 350 locations across the US as part of a selective distribution network.  Use the Ductmate distributor locator map to find a distributor near you.

Outside the US? Check out our international distributor list.  For detailed information on product availability, lead times, or other international sales requests, please email [email protected].

Introducing the Rapidmate Corner Lineup

Posted on May 13, 2024 by Ductmate Industries

The new Rapidmate Corner lineup from Ductmate is the most advanced, labor-saving corner system in the industry, with advanced design features that save time in both the shop and the field!

What is Rapidmate?

The Rapidmate Universal Corner and Screw System provides an alternative method of efficiently assembling, aligning, connecting, and securing commercial rectangular HVAC duct systems.

Here’s what makes the new Rapidmate Corners stand out:

• Heavy-duty high-hat screw simplifies connections and reduces installation time in the field
• Advanced bridge design replaces standard tabs, providing even loading and smoother corner insertion
• Beveled gasket plate guides gasket placement at the corner for improved seal
• Unique raised spacer plate ensures proper corner spacing and gasket compression

Rapidmate Standard & Strap-Pak Packaging

Rapidmate Corners are available in standard packaging (250/box) or Strap-Pak 80 magazines (400/case).

Ductmate’s patented Strap-Pak 80 magazine system is the fastest, most efficient way of loading TDC/TDF corner-inserting machinery in the industry today, resulting in a substantial reduction of loading and machinery downtime while increasing labor savings.

Rapidmate Strap-Paks fits all automatic corner insertion machinery, including:

• Single Head
• Dual Head
• Corner Cadet
• Cornermatic® Plus
• Cornermatic® II Whisper-Loc Combo

Rapidmate for Slide-On Flange Systems

In addition to TDC/TDF profiles, Rapidmate Corners are also available for the DM35 and WDCI J slide-on flange systems. The DM35 Rapidmate 3A corner has a downset feature to ensure a superior seal at the duct and corner and an embossed pillow design for enhanced corner strength and fit. The DM35 12 ga. heavy corner and WDCI J 11 ga. corner have been designed for added strength.

Where Can I Buy the Rapidmate Corner & Screw System?

Ready to buy Rapidmate? Ductmate products are available at over 350 locations across the US as part of a selective distribution network.  Use the Ductmate distributor locator map to find a distributor near you.