How to Install Vinyl Gable Vents

A house with a large, white gable.
  • 2 hours
  • Intermediate
  • 80
What You'll Need
Utility knife
Hammer
Chalk
Jigsaw
Circular saw
Drill
Drill bits
Screws
Nails
Gable vents
Lumber
Flashing material
Safety goggles
Particle mask
Gloves
What You'll Need
Utility knife
Hammer
Chalk
Jigsaw
Circular saw
Drill
Drill bits
Screws
Nails
Gable vents
Lumber
Flashing material
Safety goggles
Particle mask
Gloves

Vinyl gable vents are perfect for attic ventilation, which is an important requisite for a healthy home. Without attic exhaust vents, stale and hot air collects in the attic and is then churned around and channeled back into the house, resulting in increased energy costs. The attic also collects moisture in wet and cold weather, which can cause rot, mold, and mildew.

The best way to tackle these problems is by installing vinyl gable attic vents. These are designed to expel stale, hot, or humid air from the attic year-round and also prevent ice formation on the roof during winter, thereby reducing cooling and heating costs, and leaking roofs. Given below is a step-by-step guide for installing vinyl gable vents in your attic.

Step 1—Remove Insulation

Before actually installing the vinyl gable vent, prepare the area where the installation will take place by removing any insulation that would be in the way. A utility knife may come in handy here.

Step 2—Install the Vent Frame

Use 2x4 lumber to construct a rectangular frame within the framing of the gable wall securing everything with screws or nails. When making the frame, factor in a 1/8-inch gap all around it. When done, drill 3/8-inch holes at the 4 corners. Keep in mind that these holes will bore through to the exterior.

Step 3—Make an Opening

Now, approach the drilled holes from the outside. Using a pencil and a straight edge, connect the 4 holes marking the outline for the vent opening. Using a jigsaw, cut through the marks and following the outline, cut out the opening.

Step 4—Check Fittings

Once you have the area cut out, check if the vent fits snugly. You can then sketch out the outline for the flange and using a portable circular saw with the depth adjusted to the thickness of the siding (this will depend on the type of siding), cut through the siding following the outline. Once you are done, check the fitting again. Place the vent in the opening, making sure the flange sits flat against the sheathing.

Step 5—Mount the Vent

Once you get the vent to sit properly in its opening, secure it in place using the provided hardware and screws.