Hi:
My brother is giving me rolls of lead sheeting (I think it's wide, like 3 or 4 feet, and is 1/32 inch thick; like 25 or 50 ft rolls).
I was wondering if applying the lead sheeting around the (galvanized steel) heating ducts in my basement would be a viable option?
I realize that I would likely have to provide more support to keep the ducts suspended safely.
2 ducts run between the joists, and a main duct runs perpendicular along the center beam.
Also, would using lead sheeting in-between layers of sheetrock on the ceiling be a good option.... or? (Again, I realize the lead is like 2 lbs pre square foot, and needs to be figured in for its support).
Which layers or leaf of a wall would be best to have lead sheeting?
Just looking for a good use for this free lead.
thanx,
K
Lead sheeting around heating ducts?
Originally posted at johnlsayers.com, topic 6072.
The thing about lead is it's extremely heavy. I'd want to consult someone about the added load to your joists. There are some span calculators out there somewhere, i can't remember where right now. I think there's a link in one of the stikys.
Mainly, right now, I was only considering adding it around the ducts... It's like 2 to 3 pounds per square foot... Since there is much less area needed to cover for the ducts (this would not be covering all the ceiling sheet-rock), there would be much less added weight than covering EVERYTHING. I will do the calculations, but my main concern I think is going to be holding up the heavier ducts to the joists, and not necessarily the load on the joists. thanx, KThe thing about lead is it's extremely heavy. I'd want to consult someone about the added load to your joists. There are some span calculators out there somewhere, i can't remember where right now. I think there's a link in one of the stikys.
also i wonder how you are going to cut this safely. if you create lead dust you or somebody else could be breathing it in, right? which would be bad.
i don't know that much about it, but i did have a job once for like a week where i was cutting brass pieces apart with a cutting wheel (brass contains lead) and i had to wear a positive pressure respirator and thow my company supplied jumpsuit in the laundry basket and take a shower on the premises, etc... so i know it's dangerous. they supplied special containers for people to put their cigarettes in so they wouldn't get contaminated.
rod mentions using lead in his book but i don't think the issue of cutting or drilling is adressed. would be good to check into. it might be ok if you are using a method of cutting that doesn't vaporize the lead, i don't know.
Lead is very soft, he could probably cut it with a utility knife.
Yes, you can actually tear it with your hands..... KLead is very soft, he could probably cut it with a utility knife.
ah, good point ... i forgot about that :oops: