What does ductwork replacement typically cost in New Brunswick?

Ductwork replacement in New Brunswick typically runs $3,500-$8,000 for an average home, with costs varying significantly based on your home's size, accessibility, and the complexity of your HVAC system.

For a 1,200-1,500 sq ft bungalow (very common in NB), expect to pay $3,500-$5,500 for complete ductwork replacement. Larger two-story homes (1,800-2,500 sq ft) generally cost $5,500-$8,000, while smaller homes or mobile homes might see costs as low as $2,500-$4,000. These ranges reflect New Brunswick's generally lower construction costs compared to major urban centers, though skilled HVAC technicians can be harder to find in northern regions like Campbellton or Edmundston, potentially affecting pricing and scheduling.

Material choices significantly impact your total cost. Basic galvanized steel ductwork costs $8-$12 per linear foot installed, while insulated flexible ductwork runs $10-$15 per foot. Many NB contractors recommend insulated rigid ductwork ($12-$18 per foot) for our climate — it handles temperature swings better and reduces condensation issues common in Maritime basements. Add $800-$1,500 for new registers, grilles, and dampers throughout the home.

Accessibility drives labor costs substantially. If your existing ducts run through finished basement ceilings or crawl spaces, expect 30-50% higher labor charges for the additional demolition and repair work. Many post-war homes in Moncton, Fredericton, and Saint John have ductwork buried in finished basements, making replacement more complex. Conversely, homes with open basement ceilings or accessible crawl spaces see lower installation costs.

Consider the age and efficiency of your entire system before committing to ductwork replacement. If you're still heating with an older oil furnace (extremely common in NB), this might be the perfect time to upgrade to a cold-climate heat pump system and redesign your ductwork for optimal efficiency. NB Power offers rebates for qualifying heat pump installations that could offset some ductwork costs.

Get quotes from at least three licensed HVAC contractors and ensure they're registered with WorkSafeNB (verify at worksafenb.ca). Ask specifically about insulation values, proper sizing calculations, and whether they'll handle any necessary building permits through your municipality or Regional Service Commission.