External outdoor blower (Siding & Flashings)

The information provided below will show you the recommended siding and flashing to use when installing your outdoor remote blower. 
 

Common Materials: 

A few common materials used for siding your remote blower include the following.

• PVC trim board (Azek, Versatex, Kleer)
• Fiber-cement trim block
• Painted aluminum mounting plate
• Manufacturer-supplied blower wall plate

The standard thickness of a trim board ranges from 3/4" to 1". These boards are utilized because they provide a flat mounting surface that prevents the material from crushing or warping, while also facilitating easier integration of flashing for effective sealing. PVC trim is the most commonly used type due to its superior resistance to rot and moisture.
 

Flashing Materials Commonly Used:

The materials listed below are utilized around the duct penetration. 

• Blueskin
• Vycor
• Prosoco FastFlash

The purpose of flashing material is to seal the ducting sleeve, preventing water and moisture from penetrating behind the walls.

Types of flashing layers:

1. Sheathing 
2. Self-adhesive flashing membrane 
3. Mounting block
4. Metal Z-flashing above block
5. Siding installed around block
6. Remote blower mounted to block

It is essential to fully seal the top and sides while keeping the bottom edge open to allow proper drainage of water and moisture. 

How to install with different siding types:

Vinyl Siding

Use: 

• PVC mounting block with J channel trim (vital vinyl or aluminum component used in siding installation)

Steps: 

1. Cut siding around the block
2. Slip siding edges into J-channel
3. Install Z-flashing 

Wood lap Siding

Use: 

• PVC or wood trim block
• Metal head flashing 
• Exterior sealant 

Steps: 

1. Confirm with your installer

Fiber-Cement Siding 

Use: 

• PVC Trim Block
• Metal Z-flashing 

Steps:

1. Leave 1/4" gap between siding, block, and the caulk.

Stucco

Use: 

• Stucco mounting ring 
• Integrated flashing flange
• Sealed penetration with membrane 

steps:

1. Confirm with your installer

Structural support considerations:

Remote blowers typically weigh between 25-60 LB or 11-27 kg 

Mounting should be secured to studs or blocking using stainless steel lag screws. Incorporating a vibration isolation gasket will help reduce noise transmission into the wall during installation.

Recommended setup for the best durability:

• PVC trim mounting block
• Self-adhesive membrane flashing
• metal Z-flashing above
• stainless fasteners 
• rigid metal duct sleeve