How to Cut Dryer Exhaust Holes

Find a spot on the interior wall that has no pipes, wires or other obstructions, and mark it with a pencil. If your interior wall is finished, drill a test hole with a power drill and 14-inch bit. Drill through the interior wall only, and then insert a wire hanger -- bent 6 inches from the end at a 90-degree angle -- into the hole. Spin the hanger in a complete circle inside the wall, checking for obstructions. If the hanger hits something, drill another hole a few inches to either side, and repeat the process until the hanger spins without striking anything.

Drill through the test hole with the power drill and 14-inch bit, through the exterior wall. Go outside and check the placement of the hole, making sure there are no obstructions.

Place the vent cap over the test hole, and spot-test the placement. Align it so that it sits evenly between rows of siding, if applicable. Trace around the vent duct with a pencil.

Align the hole saw with the pencil marking and begin drilling, holding the drill straight and steady. Lean into the drill, applying pressure to help the drill cut through the wall. Pull the saw from the hole frequently to prevent overheating. Use a screwdriver or chisel to pry accumulated wall material from the saw, making sure to unplug it before doing so. Continue drilling until the saw bores through the entire wall.

Place the vent cap and duct through the opening to test the fit, and then install according to the manufacturer’s instructions.