How to Install a Gable End Vent
- 1). Choose the proper size vent for the home. Industry standards require 1 square foot of vent for every 144 square feet of attic space. It is best if vents are put on both sides of the house. There are different types of vents. They can be made of wood, metal or co-polymer. You should choose the type that matches the siding already on the house.
- 2). Construct a 2 by 4 frame following the template which comes with the vent. Be sure to construct the frame between the studs on the gable. Make sure the frame is square and allows for 1/8 inch clearance for the vent on all sides. Drill a 3/8 inch hole in each corner of the framing through the siding so that it can be located from the outside of the house.
- 3). Draw a line with the chalk line connecting the holes on the outside of the house. Using the reciprocating saw with a bi-metal blade, cut out the hole in the side of the house. If the type of vent purchased does not have an integral trim, which means the trim doubles as a nailing flange, the vent will need to be shimmed to nail to the rough opening.
- 4). Hold the vent in place and draw a line around the edge of the vent where the flange is or if the vent has no flange then draw a line where the trim will go. Use the circular saw set at a depth to only cut through the siding. Make sure that the vent flange lays flat against the sheathing where the siding was just cut.
- 5). Flash around the entire opening with building paper. Spread caulk on the underneath of the building paper to adhere it to the opening. Use metal cap flashing and slide it under the siding and the building paper at the top of the hole.
- 6). Apply caulking to all sides of the vent and set it in place. Make sure that the vent is plumb and then screw the other three sides in. If the vent is without built-in trim, then you will need to add it.
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