Question about putting AC unit thru wall

[alpo]

Going to be putting a 24,000 btu AC unit thru the wall of my garage. I need to cut out the hole and was wondering if I need to take off the vinyl siding in the area of the cutout before cutting or just cut right thru the siding. Which is the best way??

 

[cw_racefan]

I would take it off. To do this right you will need to install J-channel around the opening to receive the ends of the siding. The siding will need to be off to do this.

Going to be putting a 24,000 btu AC unit thru the wall of my garage. I need to cut out the hole and was wondering if I need to take off the vinyl siding in the area of the cutout before cutting or just cut right thru the siding. Which is the best way??

 

[alpo]

Thanks for the reply. Yes, I knew that I would have to "J" out around the opening. Was originally going to remove the siding at the area I intend to cutout but thought that it might be a little easier just to cut the hole with the siding on then adjust the siding for the J channel. Guess Removing it would be the way to go, then. Have had this AC unit since last fall, but just haven't got around to getting it in. Still new in the box on the floor. Going to have to get busy and get it in soon.

 

[newgarage]

Check out the wall from the interior as far as electric, plumbing, and framing. You will have to rough in the opening framing where the a/c penetrates the wall. You can start marking your position to cut through by drilling a small hole from the outside or inside whichever is simpler and safer for you. I would mark my outline on the siding, drill at the corners, and then cut through the siding and sheathing with a circular saw. You can fit the "J" channel in with some effort and caulk around the finished installation.