I'm remodeling my kitchen and need to close off the external exhaust for the hood vent. How do I do it?

Question

I am replacing the old hood vent with an over the range microwave which will have a charcoal filter and will recycle the air back into the kitchen. Removing the air duct to the outside will gain some much needed cupboard space. The remodelling job includes new drywall so from the inside, it will be covered over completely. Externally, I was worried about the wasp issue and how to avoid the drafts. I don't have any matching brick so I think I'll leave the external metal vent but will block up the opening as prescribed. Thanks for the input.

Answer 1

What you need is a plastic grocery bag some inslation to put ti the wall cavity may need two or 1 and some styrofoam, then drywall overtop, works well did that 5 yr,s ago no drafts and did,nt have to do any work outside.

Answer 2

If you are looking to Cap it off inside after the hood, you can get an End cap from your local supply store and fasten it to the duct or pipe, you will need to measure such as 3 by 10 or 6 inch round.
if you are refering to the outside termination point- then removal of the vent would keep any wasps etc. from making a nest of it and seal off any drafts.
To do this remove the vent, Insulate the opening with any number of insulations available-either foamboard or fiberglass matting, a nailer board (wood to screw outer layers of sheeting to) may be needed in the space on either sides or top and bottom, make a plywood patch ,screw that in and staple a felt paper or house wrap - then follow up with a finish siding or brick patch to match... , be sure to measure the location of the nailers you put in so the outer sheeting(plywood patch) will be flush (even) with the existing sheeting, This is the wood layer just beneath the outer finished siding.
I hope this helps.

Answer 3

Are you replacing the range hood?

Certainly answer 1 is valid. I'd probably caulk it in; or use a small bead of expandable foam. Will this retro job be visible?

Steven Wolf

Answer 4

You can try getting styrofoam and cutting a piece to snugly fit in the hold.