Installing Fixture Boxes
There are many items that connect to or go through your walls in some instances it is best to use a special vent or mounting plate that matches the color and texture of your vinyl. Every manufacturer will provide at least a few options.
Here we will be installing a bathroom vent. Just as on the window that we just cut in around there is a built in J-Channel so we do not need to install anything else in this area. All we need to do is cut the siding to insert into the fixture so that there is enough room for a small amount of expansion.
The most difficult part about installing vents is connecting the flexible pipe that comes off of the appliance to the aluminum duct that comes affixed to the vinyl vent. Aluminum duct tape works well and so does Tyvek tape.
Once you have the fixture connected to the wall you can cut your siding to match the opening.
Some of the other places that you might want to use a fixture plate include:
Hose bib faucets
Exterior Lighting around doors or for security lighting
Mounting Plate for a mail box
Mounting Plate for Electrical Service Meters
Entrance Plates for Gas, Phone or Cable TV
Mounting Plates for Satellite TV Dishes
Just because you have already completed your vinyl siding install does not mean you cant go back and install a Fixture Box if you plan a change or upgrade to your home.
Even if you do not know the manufacturer of the siding that was installed on your house you can take a small piece to your supplier and have them match the color.
Color matching is important especially with light browns, yellows and grays. Often you will find a slight mismatch in colors when the same manufacturer makes product line changes. You will also have Color match and Texture match problems between different Manufacturers.
One option is paintable fixtures. Paintable items are often found in the attic vents and window shutters. Paintable vinyl has a special coating to accept the paint where standard vinyl items will need a special primer applied before they can be painted.