By Paul Bianchina
Q: We're trying to deal with a couple of drafts in the home we're updating. We have a microwave over the stove with a metal exhaust pipe that runs through the upper cabinet. It's on an interior wall, but we get a terrible draft through that cabinet. How do I cut down on the cold air? Is it safe to wrap the metal vent with insulation? - Erin K.
A: There are a couple of things I can suggest for that drafty vent. Since you said this is an interior wall, I am assuming the vent goes up into the attic. Before you get going with any insulating, check in the attic to verify that the vent goes all the way through to the outside of the house. If it terminates within the attic space, take the time now to vent it to the exterior to prevent a buildup of moisture within the attic itself.
Vents such as this do not carry a lot of heat, so it's safe to insulate it inside the cabinet. My preference is to enclose the duct pipe with rigid foam insulation, available from any home center - 1-inch thick material will be plenty. Simply cut the foam board to size with a sharp utility knife and a straightedge, and friction-fit it around the pipe. This will also take care of any drafts. If desired for appearance sake, you can then build a simple box from 1/8-inch- or 1/4-inch-thick finish-grade plywood inside the cabinet, which will cover the foam.
Copyright 2006 Inman News.
. Questions of a Do It Yourself nature should be submitted our "