Replacing a Home's Exterior Light Fixture

[sho76und3wd]

Great video, thanks for the help!

[patch1103]

Thanks for the tips. I picked up some longer screws and caulk today and will tackle as soon as I get home from work. I think the only trick is that I will probably have to trim the machine screws so that they are the correct length, since the longer ones will likely be a little too long.

[patch1103]

Great video. I'm replacing a fixture in vinyl siding and the existing mount kit is similar to the new one that was installed in the video. The new mount kit (that came with the fixture) is the universal type that was replaced in the video. I'm having two problems: 1) the new universal mount doesn't fit on the existing electrical box and 2) I tried using the existing mount, but the box is too recessed and I can't fit the new fixture on (screws too short). Any suggestions?

[HomeAdditionPlus]

You can find larger universal mounts and longer screws at any home improvement center. The universal mount doesn't need to fit on the electrical box, just over it. As long as it hides the electrical box from view you should be okay. Apply some exterior grade caulk around it to make sure there is a tight seal between it and the electrical box.

[HomeAdditionPlus]

I should clarify, there is an electrical box behind the mounting plate. This mounting plate attaches flush to the clapboard siding. The electrical wires of the light fixture are then connected to the wiring in the electrical box.

[HomeAdditionPlus]

You must have spoken to the wrong person at Lowes. You can find these type of mounting blocks at Lowes and Home Depot. You can probably also find them at other local hardware stores in their electrical sections.

[scottiblasto]

great video! I have an older light that needs to be changed though. There is no ground wire. How do I connect a new light to old wires?

[HomeAdditionPlus]

If there is no ground wire in the electrical box due to the fact that it is old wire, then you can (1) let the light fixture ground wire float (leave unconnected), or (2) connect the ground wire to the electrical box itself if it is metal. There is the possibility, depending upon the type of cable/wire used, that the ground wire is connected to the electrical box. Your only other choice is to run new cable/wire.

[MrAlanKendall]

If you use primer to seal the house wood it will last longer (because moisture likes to stay inside) or a few years later you will have water damage when you put another fixture on. It is also good to put a piece of tar paper to reduce the water that can leak inside. I also put dap or silicon around the edge before I put the mount on the wall and I caulk outside afterwards.