Sheet metal workers make, install, and maintain heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) duct systems in both residential and commercial applications; metal and copper roofs; metal siding; rain gutters; downspouts; stainless steel kitchen equipment; heavy iron industrial systems and many other products made from all types of metals. They also may work with fiberglass and plastic materials. Although most workers specialize in fabrication, installation or maintenance, some do all three jobs.
In addition some sheet metal workers specialize in testing, balancing, adjusting, and servicing existing air-conditioning and ventilation systems to make sure they are functioning properly and to improve their energy efficiency. Properly installed duct systems are a key component to heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems, which causes duct installers to sometimes be referred to as HVAC technicians. Many sheet metal workers work as detailers drawing the mechanical systems for a project using the latest computer aided drawing programs.