Introduction

Replace a broken dryer vent cap simply and quickly. Disconnect the through-wall duct and replace the duct and cap together.

A metal dryer vent cover is deliberately lightweight so they can open easily. Unfortunately, this flimsiness also means they’ll break easily. The caps, especially the type with multiple small flaps, also clog easily with lint. (Avoid this type unless you’re conscientious about cleaning it.)

To replace old outdoor vent covers, start by pulling apart the duct at the last joint inside the house. If they don’t pull apart easily, look for small screws holding the sections of pipe together.

Tools Required

  • 4-in-1 screwdriver
  • Caulk gun
  • Tin snips
  • Utility knife

Materials Required

  • Acrylic caulk
  • Metal tape
  • New vent cap

Project step-by-step (2)

Step 1

Disconnect the old dryer vent cap

Remove the screws or nails used to attach the cap to the siding and cut through the caulk around the edges. Pull out the dryer vent cover, scrape away old caulk and dirt, and then wipe the siding clean so the new caulk will stick.

A person uses a utility knife to remove a bird's nest from the inside of a wall cavity. The wall cavity is filled with pink insulation material, and the nest is nestled in a small section to the right of a central pipe or duct. A label points to "Bird's Nest.Family Handyman

Step 2

Install the new dryer vent cap

Cut the new vent pipe to the same length as the old one, then slide it through the wall. Screw the cap to the siding and caulk around the edges with paintable caulk.

Finally, join the old duct inside the house to the new metal dryer vent cover. Vent caps are available at home centers.

A person applies metal tape to a duct pipe protruding through an insulated wall with pink fiberglass insulation. A label points to an area of shiny, newly applied caulk on the right side of the pipe. The background wall is red.Family Handyman

Originally Published: November 30, 2018