How to Build A Soffit Around Ductwork
Steps on How to Build a Soffit around Ductwork:
First decide on whether the item you’re considering
boxing in can be moved higher or relocated. Often times this involves the input from a plumber, HVAC or electrician and many times it’s more cost effective and aesthetically pleasing to move a few water pipes than build a soffit. Below are some tips and steps that will help you make your decision and explain how to build a soffit.
Determine Finished Ceiling Height:
The next step is to determine the lowest obstruction in the room and compare that to your desired finished ceiling height. Sometimes I find myself “splitting the difference” on ceiling obstructions. What I mean is there is often a steam pipe / duct or item that is too low and a decision is made to install soffits and a finished ceiling to conceal everything but that item. Sometimes, as often the case of pitched steam radiator pipes, we
leave a low pipe exposed below the finished ceiling and paint it.
Identify what needs to have a soffit. If there are going to be different ceiling heights you will need termination points for them. This means soffits or skirt walls. [see photos]
