Checking my attic this summer the ductwork has duct tape instead of the foil type. Should all duct tape be removed to retape or is it fine to foil tape over the duct tape?
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Don't Tape at all!
Nope, What you want to do is apply a compound informally known as "pooky."
This duct seal compound is a grey putty, resembling a really thick paint, that is applied with a brush to the joints. Typically, a new joint will have some applied, be wrapped with an open-mesh 'tape,' and then painted over with the compound. Over several days, this material will dry to a mortar-like hardness.
Any commercial HVAC supply house will know exactly what this stuff is. It usually comes in a 1 gallon size tub.
With duct tape in place, just pretend that is the open-mesh tape, and pooky over it.
It's essential that you wear clothes that you will never wear again- like spray foam, this stuff is death to clothing and will NOT wash out.
Exactly the right answer. In fact, duct mastic is code in Florida for this type of duct work.You can't just tape it up anymore.