How to vent a tumble dryer through a wall

Question

How do you fit the vent hose through an external wall. Does the hole need any kind of sleeve or weatherproofing?

Sprasim · Answer

🧺 Simple Steps: Fit Tumble Dryer Through Brick/Block Wall

Standard size: 100mm / 4 inch hole (fits all UK tumble dryers)
✅ What you’ll need

• SDS hammer drill + 100mm masonry core bit (or long masonry bit + chisel/bolster)

• Long 10mm masonry drill bit

• Tape measure, pencil, spirit level

• Vent kit: metal sleeve, external cowl/grille, internal hose

• Exterior silicone sealant, foil tape, masonry screws

• Safety gear: goggles, dust mask, gloves, ear defenders
📝 Step-by-Step (simple)

1. Pick the right spot

• 30cm+ above ground, clear of windows, drains, electric cables, pipes

• Check no wires/pipes behind — use a detector or drill a tiny test hole first

• Shortest straight line = best airflow

2. Mark & drill pilot hole

• Mark centre point inside

• Drill straight through wall with long thin bit — you’ll see it outside

• Mark the same spot outside, draw a 105–110mm circle (slightly bigger for fit)

3. Cut the main hole

• Best way: Use SDS drill + core bit — go slow, half from inside, half from outside to stop bricks cracking

• Cheaper way: Drill many holes around the circle, then knock out the middle with hammer + bolster/chisel; smooth edges

• Clean all dust/debris

4. Fit the vent

• Push metal sleeve through from outside

• Screw external cowl to brick (flap points down to stop rain)

• Seal all gaps around both sides with silicone — no drafts, no leaks

• Connect rigid or semi‑rigid metal hose to dryer back; use foil tape only (no plastic tape)

5. Final check

• Hose no kinks, no sagging

• Short run (max 3–4m, only 1 bend if possible)

• Test run — air should blow strongly outside
⚠️ Key safety rules

• Never vent into cavity, loft, or room — fire risk from lint/moisture

• No plastic ducting — can melt

• If wall is load‑bearing, consult a builder first

Mihai · Answer

You would normally fit a 100 mm (4 inch) core hole through the external wall for the vent duct. A rigid duct is recommended because it provides better airflow and is less likely to collect lint.

The duct should be installed with a slight downward fall towards the outside so any condensation drains away from the property. Fit an external vent grille with a flap to prevent rain, insects and drafts entering.

Michael · Answer

No pull enough hose through the wall to connect to the back of a tumble dryer vent. Secure it with a jubilee clip and fix it to the external wall.

Mohsen · Answer

Hi Luke
Use a core drill to make the correct-sized opening, fit a proper external vent kit, and connect the dryer using rigid or semi-rigid ducting. Avoid long flexible hoses and excessive bends, as they reduce airflow and increase lint build-up. Seal the external vent properly and always follow the manufacturer's installation instructions

Sandor · Answer

Drill a 125 mm hole and buy the plastic cover to look nice

Andrew · Answer

You vent a tumble dryer through a wall by cutting a 100 mm (4‑inch) hole through the external wall, inserting a metal vent sleeve, and attaching an external cowl/grille plus a rigid or semi‑rigid metal duct from the dryer to the wall. That’s the core takeaway — but doing it well (and safely) requires a few precise steps and materials.

How to vent a tumble dryer through a wall

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