Ductwork Services in Westwood: Inspection, Repair, and Sealing

Westwood's housing stock reflects its identity as a university-adjacent neighborhood built in distinct phases. The midcentury ranch homes south of Wilshire and the three-story condos near Westwood Village share one challenge: original ductwork that was sized for smaller cooling loads and installed in tight crawlspaces or shallow attic runs. Many of the condos built in the 1970s and 1980s feature ducted mini-splits or compact air handlers with flex duct snaking through shared ceiling cavities. Access can be limited, especially in upper units where service hatches open into narrow soffits. We've worked in Westwood for over 30 years and know which buildings require coordination with HOA property managers and which homes have enough attic clearance for full duct replacement.

Leaky ducts are common in these older systems. A study-bedroom duct that pulls unconditioned air from a hot attic can cost you 25% or more in cooling efficiency during summer months. We perform blower door and duct leakage testing to pinpoint where conditioned air escapes, then seal joints with mastic and replace sections that have deteriorated insulation or crushed flex runs. For condo owners near UCLA, we schedule service during academic breaks when building access and parking are easier. Our crews carry compact tools and work cleanly in tight spaces, and we provide written estimates before any repair begins.

California Title 24 energy standards require duct leakage testing for any major HVAC replacement or addition. The test measures how much conditioned air escapes before it reaches your living space. Homes in Westwood with original 1960s or 1980s ductwork often fail initial testing, showing leakage rates above the 6% threshold for new construction or 15% for existing systems. Sealing those leaks can recover 20% to 30% of lost cooling capacity and lower monthly utility bills. We use calibrated duct blasters and digital manometers to document pre- and post-seal performance, and we provide the compliance certificate your compliance requires.

Duct sealing and insulation upgrades may qualify for rebates through the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power or statewide efficiency programs. We walk you through the application process and coordinate inspections if your project involves a full system replacement. Most duct seal jobs in Westwood take one to two days, depending on attic access and the extent of deterioration. Our insured and bonded technicians handle the work from testing to final sign-off, and every repair is backed by our written guarantee. If you're planning an AC upgrade or noticed uneven room temperatures, a duct inspection is the first step.