5 Steps to Rerouting a Dryer Vent

dryer
  • 5-10 hours
  • Advanced
  • 200-1,000
What You'll Need
4.25-inch hole saw
Drill bit (12" long)
Metal snips
4" galvanized steel ductwork
Caulk
Vent cap
Leather work gloves
Duct tape
Pipe strap
Insulation material
Material for patching up the old vent hole (varies depending on what kind of wall the vent came through, such as vinyl siding or brick)
What You'll Need
4.25-inch hole saw
Drill bit (12" long)
Metal snips
4" galvanized steel ductwork
Caulk
Vent cap
Leather work gloves
Duct tape
Pipe strap
Insulation material
Material for patching up the old vent hole (varies depending on what kind of wall the vent came through, such as vinyl siding or brick)

If you are planning a renovation of your laundry room or are moving the location of your dryer, you may need to reroute your dryer vent. The process can range from fairly simple to complicated, depending on where the dryer is located and where you need it to vent. This article should give you a general idea of the process and allow you to get started on the project.

Step 1 - The Location

Your first step in rerouting your dryer vent is to determine where your dryer will go. Preferably, you should find an exterior wall to place your dryer, as it keeps the venting simple and more efficient. Once your dryer is placed, you need to decide where to vent.

The simple way is straight out the wall behind the dryer, as long as the vent will be at least a foot from the ground on the outside of the house. If this will not work, you can run a duct to a higher spot on the wall. Venting up and out the roof is not recommended unless there are no other options.

Step 2 - Creating the Hole for Your New Vent

Once you know where your vent will go, drill a pilot hole through the wall with a 0.25-inch bit from the interior of the house. This hole will act as a guide when you drill the larger hole for the vent. If you have vinyl siding, your next step is to create the vent hole from the exterior of the house using a Hole Saw. Be patient, as it takes a while to drill the hole. Pull out the saw regularly to keep it cool. It is also a good idea to check the wall for wiring or any other objects before drilling.

Step 3 - Installing the Vent

Next, place the vent in the hole. Make sure the vent is flush with the exterior surface. If the vent is through siding, you should mount it to a vinyl mounting block. Once installed, caulk around the edges of the vent for a proper seal. Head inside and caulk around the vent on the interior as well.

Step 4 - Running the Duct

Your dryer and vent are now ready for the ductwork. Wear protective gloves for this step as the metal ductwork can be very sharp. Begin by running the duct at the vent and work your way toward the dryer. Use as few bends as possible in the duct as too many bends will restrict airflow and cause more lint buildup. Once the duct is connected, tape the joints with duct tape. To keep the duct more sturdy, use pipe strap and attach it to the wall joists.

Step 5 - The Old Vent Hole

Your dryer vent has been moved and has left a hole in your wall. A simple piece of wood cut to size will fill the hole. Caulk around any gaps. Patch up any exterior material (such as siding) to cover the hole.