Adding a meter to vinyl siding

[smokey0066]

I'd like to add a time of use meter base to the back of my garage for my new EVSE. My garage is covered in vinyl siding. I saw the installers next door just attached the meter base on top of the vinyl siding and then foamed the back to close up the gaps. It looks fine from afar but is quite sloppy when you get up close, you can see the foam oozing out on both side. As a DIYer I'd like to know if there is a better way to add this meter base to my vinyl siding. If you have examples with pictures or products with links that'd be helpful.

 

[Blk88GT]

There are meter base mounts designed for this application.

Arlington | Meter Mounting Bases

Arlington's one piece, non-metallic Mounting Bases provide a smooth, flat mounting surface for most electric meters, including the largest sizes, as well as a variety of other products such as disconnects, timers, inlet boxes and more.<br /><br />Designed for easy use, squared off corners...

www.aifittings.com

 

[outinthetallgrass]

Meter base i would use something like this

 

[smokey0066]

So I'd cut an opening in the vinyl siding. Put the meter base over the tyvek. Then just drop the actual meter into that meter base and caulk around it? Do I need to do anything from a sealing standpoint between that meter base kit and the tyvek?

 

[pcmeiners]

Agree with Smokey, Channel around it looks cheap, cut neatly very little caulk is needed.

 

[jack stand]

It's not hard to remove 2 courses of siding, mount this meter, j channel and re install the siding. It should match the main meter exactly.
The meter mounts are very nice if you can find one, but it will also require removing the siding as it has a built in J.
Look for a siding distributor who offers "Mid America" siding accessories.

 

[hh76]

I've always used spacers on the mounting screws and avoided cutting the siding. Done correctly, it is the cleanest install and is easiest to waterproof.