How do you install a vent to a stone or concrete exterior wall for a dryer hook up?
Question:OLD DRYER WAS HOOKED UP TO THE CHIMENY WHICH I READ WAS A HAZARD SO I SWITCHED IT TO AN OLD CLOSET WHICH I AM NOW REMODELING INTO A NEW LAUNDRY ROOM. THIS CLOSET IS ALSO AN OLD ADDITION TO THE HOUSE. i'VE ALREADY HOOKED UP THE PLUMBING AND THE ELECTRICAL FOR BOTH THE WASHER AND DRYER.
Answers:
rent a HILTI (hill-tee) drill from Home Depot with a 4" core bit. Also pick up a dampered vent with a 4"x 18"(?) stub off the back. This will be a lot easier to insulate because its all one piece. Buy some foam tape and wrap the stub to make sure it doesnt sweat in between the walls. Fill any gaps around the stub and attach your flex duct from the dryer.
If you can not find a particular stone that is about the right size of the hole needed then you can go rent a big drill from Home depot and a masonry hole saw bit from them and go through a much bigger stone in the center of it. God slow and let the drill do the work without alot of force so not to hammer drill crack the stone for a better look. Also pick a flat one so the vent cover looks good and sits tight and flat without alot of caulk, or any.
If you have a concrete exterior, then you can create a hole with a masonry bit, and a cold chisel. Drill as many holes as you need (depends on the size of the bit) to make a circle large enough for your vent to run thru, then finish it out with the chisel. Use metal duct to run thru the wall (normally supplied with outside vent kits).
One other option you may want to consider.. run the vent thru the floor, at the dryer, and then you can run it to any exterior wall you like, under the floor. I like to install a 'cleanout' fitting (like a T-joint, capped at one end) to make it easier to clean later on. (lint does tend to build up over time, plan ahead now, to make it easier to work on later, hehehe) If you goto a hardware or building supply store, they can help you select your parts, and even give you some installation tips.
Whatever you do.. do NOT just run the vent to under the floor, and leave it... it will create a build up of excess moisture under the floor, which, over time, will cause damage to your home's structure. Run the vent all the way thru an outside wall.
Have Fun
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