How to Install a Wall Vent With a Hood Cap

Mark the opening for the vent pipe on the desired wall using a pencil to serve as a guideline for cutting. Locate wall studs using a stud finder and draw the vent marks in between them. You need one mark on the interior wall surface and another identical one on the wall surface outside the home. Measure the interior location with a tape measure to transfer it to the outside surface.

Drill a 1/4-inch diameter hole in the center of each circle to provide a location for the saw blades to penetrate the wall.

Cut out the interior circle using a drywall saw, remove the center hole portion, and discard it.

Walk to the exterior of the home and cut out the circle using a reciprocating saw if the wall material is wood. If the wall material is vinyl or aluminum siding, cut the opening using a hole saw and a 4 1/2-inch hole bit. If the wall is stucco or masonry, draw a circle on it and create holes around the perimeter with a hammer drill and masonry bit. Then remove the center of the hole using a chisel and hammer.

Insert a wall thimble into the exterior hole with the square portion fitting flush against the exterior of the home. Use a power drill to insert the provided screws into the screw holes on the thimble. Repeat the process to install another thimble on the interior of the home.

Cut open a tube of exterior-grade silicone caulk by snipping ¼ inch off of the nozzle with scissors. Apply a 1/2-inch bead of caulk around the base of the raised cylinder portion of the exterior thimble.

Slide the hooded cap onto the end of the exterior thimble with the open section of the hood facing down toward the ground.

Walk back inside the home and proceed with the installation of the desired household appliance.