Installing a Dryer Vent Through the Attic

A dryer vent should be vented outside. Sometimes, such as in town-homes or condos, it's not possible to vent a dryer through a wall outside. In these cases, it may be necessary to vent your dryer through the attic.

Not all dryers will allow for this, so be sure to check the owners manual to ensure it can be vented in this manner. Installing a dryer vent through an attic can be dangerous if not done properly. Here's how you can start the process.

Step 1 - Gather Materials

Since you are going to be moving up most of the time, you want to make sure you have all of your tools handy to start the process. This is to ensure that you are not running around through the whole process. It is recommended to only run the duct upwards if you have no other way to run it. This is because lint from the dryer is more apt to be stuck in the vent.

You will want to know the measurements from the dryer to the place where you are putting the vent through. You should also measure from the attic floor down to the dryer to make sure you are correct about the measurements. You will then want to drill a small hole through the attic floor, and place a small, thin object through the hole to allow you to know where the hole is to go for the vent.

Step 2 - Start the Process

You will then want to find the hanger when you are downstairs by the dryer. If the measurements are correct, then the hole should sit 4 to 5 inches from the wall where the dryer is. If you find that it is not, you can adjust it. You should then measure a small hole in the ceiling to fit the dryer vent into.

A normal dryer vent size is around 4½ inches wide. This is done with your bi-metal hole saw to create a hole that fits the duct perfectly. Before cutting, you should also make sure there are no obstructions, or wires that might be in the way of your cutting since they can be severed from the saw.

Step 3 - Finish the Process

You will then install the dryer vent through the hole that you have just made. You can attach the pieces together in all the holes by using the clamps that you have. You are then back to sticking the vent to the wall with the brackets and screws. Attach the roof vent to the duct that is from the top of the roof. Use the screws to place the vent cap securely onto the roof. To secure it, you can then use the caulk to go around the edges of the vent cap. Allow it to dry before moving anything.