Preserving Duke University Chapel's HVAC System While Enhancing Airflow Efficiency

Since the early 1930s, the Duke University Chapel has stood on the highest ridge of Duke’s West Campus. For many decades, this chapel has been the site of thousands of services. With its rich history and architectural grandeur, Duke University kicked off restoration project to rehabilitate the interior and exterior of the Chapel. Pur-Vent, a full-service HVAC cleaning and sealing Company, based out of Carey, NC was tasked with restoring the entire HVAC system based on their experience with historic restoration.

Duke University was replacing the existing air handling units, and Pur-Vent was responsible for cleaning all the remaining ductwork and grills. The project’s scope was eventually expanded to include 100 feet of underground fresh-air ducts that had previously been taken out of service.

“They decided to put them back in service, and they wanted to coat them, so we suggested using Hardcast’s RE-500 (low-VOC spray insulation coating),” said Henry Baker, President of Pur-Vent.

Pur-Vent’s immediate priority was to preserve its historic elements, including the brass grills, limestone walls, and woodwork. As duct cleaning is extremely important for a healthy and efficient airflow system, Pur-Vent’s technicians first cleaned the ductwork with vacuums, then they performed a more thorough cleaning using whips and air-washing. Afterwards, Pur-Vent technicians hand-applied RE-500 using an airless sprayer.

“Crews really like the RE-500 because it flows through the airless sprayer well and doesn’t clog it up, and it provides a nice, even coat,” said Baker. Coating the fiberglass liner or duct board with RE-500 increases the equipment’s service life at a fraction of the cost of replacement. In addition, it is a low-VOC product that can be used inside an HVAC system, unlike many other products. “It works better and costs less, How can you beat that?” said Baker.