Remodeling Ideas for Basements With Exposed Duct Work

Exposing the Ductwork

• One strategy is to leave the duct work exposed and work it into your basement remodel. Simply leave the ducts intact and exposed and then adding ceiling tiles around or under the ducts. With basements that have ducts which vent into the basement, you should leave the ducts unobstructed so they can continue to vent into the room. To cover these ducts would only disrupt the heating or cooling system.

Hiding Ductwork

• Another option is to hide the duct work either by enclosing it inside of the ceiling, or by building the ceiling around it. If you choose to enclose the duct work by installing a drop ceiling below it, you can run into issues with the system venting into what is now a small, enclosed area. This is only recommended if the system doesn't vent into the room. Hiding duct work is a better option. It allows for the system to continue venting into the basement and causes fewer problems, mechanically speaking, down the road. You can hide ducts behind natural wood beams, which will also lend character to your basement. Another option is to install a trellis, or framed beamed covered with drywall, to obstruct the view of the duct. This beam needs to be located where it obstructs the view and does not block venting. Another simple option is to paint the ducts with two coats or interior paint that matches the color of the ceiling.

Enclosed Ducts

• You can also enclose the ducts in a box that runs along the ceiling or wall. This option, for non-venting ducts, is a good one if you have the materials and extra time. It will take up more space, leave less headroom in some cases, and it can be difficult to do. The enclosed area must be built using a 2-by-4-inch board frame and drywall and run the entire length of the ducts. Benefits include the ability to install lights along this box, and a reduction in noise that comes from air ducts. The enclosed area must meet the building codes for enclosed duct work.