Loose Dryer Vent

Tools:

drill
old screwdriver (to use for scraping away on bricks)
regular screwdriver
5-in-1 painter's tool
metal punch
mineral spirits
hammer
caulk and caulking gun
new dryer vent assembly

1. Disconnect the dryer hose from the back of the dryer and the vent pipe by removing clamps. Pull old dryer vent out of the wall (figure A).

2. Use the old screwdriver and painter's tool to clean caulk or other leftover adhesive off the exterior wall (figure B).

3. Slide the new vent assembly into place and use the metal punch to make a hole in the flange for the mounting screw (figure C). Always drive screws into mortar rather than the brick. Henry's rule is you can always come back and add more mortar, but it's a much bigger job to replace a brick.

4. Drill a pilot hole through the flange and into the mortar. Remove the dryer vent and run a fat bead of caulk around the inside of the flange (figure D). This will prevent water and insects from getting into the home around the dryer vent.

5. Firmly push the vent back into place and attach using screws designed for mortar (figure E). Clean excess caulk off bricks using mineral spirits.

6. Install the trim on the inside using screws, then attach a new aluminum vent hose to the vent and the dryer with clamps (figure F). Do not overtighten the screws and crush the tube.