In-venting a Solution

It wasn't until after we closed on our house that we discovered what was behind a mysterious piece of wood in the kitchen.  Based on the vent outside the house we knew it was for microwave venting, but the condition of what we'd find was the question.

Wood covering the microwave vent hole

Our curiosity was satisfied as we peered in on a jagged hole stuffed with a very old beach towel (which we promptly discarded).  We also had a chance to see what the house had for insulation in the outside walls.  To  our surprise we found absolutely no insulation in the walls.    

The microwave venting in the wall

Since the exterior vent will not be removed until we get the house repainted down the road, I thought it best to stuff at least a little insulation in the hole.

Insulation in the vent hole

Then I cut a piece of drywall from a wall I intend to remove for our soon-to-be laundry room and fit it in the hole as best I could.

Drywall covering the vent hole

Some joint compound, light sanding and a couple of coats of paint made the hole disappear.  

The filled hole painted over

Although my craftsmanship is now covered by the new microwave, at least I know there is insulation in one place in this house!

The microwave in its new home