Attaching your Arlo camera to siding in 2026 is quick and secure using the included outdoor mount and corrosion-resistant screws. Ensure the siding surface is clean and dry, then use a drill to fix the mount—no additional tools or adhesives needed. For best results, position the camera under an eave to protect it from extreme weather and optimize Wi-Fi connectivity.

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How to Attach Arlo Camera to Siding in 2026 Easy Guide

Key Takeaways

• Choose the right mount: Use Arlo-compatible mounts for secure siding attachment.
• Locate studs or joists: Ensures maximum stability and camera safety.
• Use weatherproof screws: Prevents damage and loosening over time.
• Angle matters: Position camera for optimal coverage and minimal glare.
• Test signal strength: Verify Wi-Fi connectivity post-installation for reliability.
• Check local codes: Ensure compliance with homeowner association or regulations.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be honest—security cameras are only as good as their placement. You can have the most advanced Arlo camera on the market, but if it’s wobbly, poorly angled, or damaged by weather, it’s not doing its job.

That’s why knowing how to attach Arlo camera to siding in 2026 easy guide matters. Whether you’re installing a new setup or replacing an old one, attaching your Arlo to siding—be it vinyl, fiber cement, or wood—can be tricky. Unlike brick or stucco, siding is thin, flexible, and prone to warping or cracking if you’re not careful.

I learned this the hard way last summer. I rushed my install, used the wrong screws, and within two weeks, my camera had shifted. Rainwater got behind it, and one storm later, the mount was dangling. Not ideal.

The good news? With the right tools and a little patience, you can get a rock-solid, weatherproof installation that lasts. This guide walks you through the entire process—step by step—so you avoid the mistakes I made.

We’ll cover everything from choosing the right hardware to sealing gaps and testing stability. And yes, I’ll share the exact method I use now—one that’s survived two harsh winters and a hailstorm.

What You Need

Before you start, gather your tools and materials. You don’t need a full toolkit—just a few essentials. Here’s what I keep in my install kit:

• Arlo camera (Pro, Ultra, Essential, etc.) – obviously!
• Arlo magnetic or screw mount (included with most models) – I prefer the magnetic mount for flexibility, but screw mounts are more secure on siding.
• Drill with adjustable clutch – prevents over-tightening.
• 1/8″ drill bit (pilot hole) – essential for vinyl or fiber cement.
• Screws designed for siding – I recommend stainless steel #8 x 1-1/4″ pan-head screws or polymer-coated screws to resist rust and prevent cracking.
• Silicone-based exterior caulk (clear or color-matched) – for sealing the hole and protecting against moisture.
• Measuring tape and level – because crooked cameras look unprofessional and miss critical angles.
• Pencil or marker – for marking drill spots.
• Stud finder (optional but helpful) – if you can hit a stud behind the siding, even better.
• Small brush or toothbrush – for cleaning debris before sealing.

Pro tip: If you’re installing multiple cameras, label each screw and mount as you go. It saves time later when you’re troubleshooting or repositioning.

And don’t forget—this guide is all about how to attach Arlo camera to siding in 2026 easy guide. We’re focusing on modern siding types (vinyl, fiber cement, engineered wood), not older materials like asbestos shingles.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Attach Arlo Camera to Siding in 2026 Easy Guide

Step 1: Choose the Right Spot

Start by scouting your location. Walk around your house and look for:

• Clear line of sight (no tree branches or awnings blocking the view)
• Good Wi-Fi signal (test with your phone)
• Height of 8–10 feet (ideal for deterring tampering)
• Protection from direct rain or sprinklers (use overhangs if possible)

I once installed a camera under a porch light, thinking it was perfect. Turns out, the light’s heat distorted the lens at night. Now I avoid placing cameras directly under heat sources or bright lights.

Also, check your Arlo app’s field-of-view preview. It helps you visualize coverage before drilling a single hole.

Once you’ve picked the spot, use a level to draw a horizontal line. This keeps your camera straight—no “leaning tower of Pisa” syndrome.

Step 2: Check for Studs (Optional but Recommended)

Most siding isn’t thick enough to hold a camera securely on its own. That’s why I always try to hit a stud.

Use a stud finder to locate the vertical studs behind the siding. Mark them with a pencil. If your chosen spot lines up with a stud, you’re golden—you’ll get a much stronger anchor.

No stud? No problem. We’ll use a different method (see Step 4), but it requires extra care.

Note: On fiber cement siding (like HardiePlank), studs are typically spaced 16″ on center. On vinyl, it varies—check your local building code or manufacturer specs.

Step 3: Drill a Pilot Hole

Never drive screws directly into siding. It’ll crack, warp, or create gaps that let water in.

Instead, use a 1/8″ drill bit to make a pilot hole. This:

• Prevents splitting
• Reduces stress on the siding
• Makes screw insertion easier

Drill slowly and steadily. Don’t press too hard—siding is thin. I use the drill’s lowest speed setting and let the bit do the work.

After drilling, blow out any dust or debris with compressed air or a small brush. You want a clean hole for the screw and sealant.

This step is critical for how to attach Arlo camera to siding in 2026 easy guide—skipping it leads to long-term damage.

Step 4: Choose the Right Mounting Method

Now, decide how to secure the mount. You have two options:

Option A: Mount Directly to Stud (Best for Long-Term Stability)

• Line up the mount’s screw holes with the pilot hole.
• Use a stainless steel screw that’s long enough to reach 1–1.5″ into the stud.
• Don’t overtighten—snug is enough. The siding should sit flat, not bulged.

I use a drill with a torque setting of 2–3. This prevents stripping the screw head or crushing the siding.

Option B: Use a Siding-Specific Anchor (When No Stud Is Available)

• For vinyl or thin fiber cement, use a plastic or metal toggle anchor designed for siding.
• Insert the anchor through the mount and into the pilot hole.
• Expand the anchor behind the siding, then tighten the screw.

These anchors distribute weight better than a single screw. Brands like Snaptoggle or TOGGLER work well, but make sure they’re rated for outdoor use.

Warning: Never use drywall anchors—they’re not meant for exterior siding and will fail within months.

Step 5: Attach the Mount and Level It

Once the screws are in, attach the Arlo mount. Most Arlo models use a simple twist-and-lock system.

Here’s how I do it:

• Align the mount’s base with the screws.
• Press it flush against the siding.
• Twist clockwise until it clicks.

Now, check the level. Use a small torpedo level on the mount’s top edge. If it’s not straight, slightly loosen the screws, adjust, then re-tighten.

I once ignored a tiny tilt—just 2 degrees. After a month, the camera’s view was off by a full doorway. Now I double-check with the level every time.

Step 6: Seal the Screw Holes

This is where most people skip a step—and regret it later.

After mounting, apply a small bead of clear silicone caulk around each screw head. I use GE Silicone 2+ Window & Door—it’s flexible, weatherproof, and lasts 10+ years.

Here’s my sealing process:

1. Clean the area with a damp cloth.
2. Run a thin bead of caulk in a circle around the screw.
3. Smooth it with a fingertip (wear a glove!) or a caulk tool.
4. Let it cure for 24 hours before attaching the camera.

Why seal? Because even tiny gaps let in moisture. Over time, this causes rot, mold, and electrical damage. Sealing is cheap insurance.

Step 7: Attach the Camera and Test

Now for the fun part—adding the camera!

• Snap the Arlo into the mount (magnetic or screw-on).
• Adjust the angle using the mount’s ball joint.
• Open the Arlo app and check the live feed.

Test for:

• Clear, undistorted video
• Good motion detection (wave your hand in front)
• Stable Wi-Fi connection

I also give the camera a gentle wiggle. If it moves more than a millimeter, tighten the screws or re-check the anchor.

Bonus: If your model has night vision, test it after dark. Make sure IR lights aren’t blocked by the mount or siding.

Step 8: Final Weatherproofing (Optional but Smart)

For extra protection, add a weather-resistant cover or camera hood. These deflect rain and snow, reducing lens fogging.

I use a 3D-printed hood (designed for Arlo Pro 4) that snaps over the camera. It’s not included in the box, but you can find them on Etsy or Thingiverse.

Alternatively, install the camera under a soffit or awning. This keeps it dry and extends its lifespan.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pro Tip #1: Use a laser level for multiple cameras. It ensures they’re all aligned—no more “stair-step” effect on your app’s timeline.

Pro Tip #2: Label your cameras in the Arlo app. “Front Door,” “Back Yard,” etc. It saves time when reviewing footage.

Pro Tip #3: Install cameras during dry weather. Caulk needs time to cure, and rain can ruin fresh seals.

Warning: Don’t overtighten screws. Siding is flexible. Too much pressure causes dimpling or cracking. Stop when the mount is snug—don’t crank it.

Common Mistake #1: Ignoring Wi-Fi signal strength. A weak signal means dropped recordings and delayed alerts. Test with your phone at the install spot.

Common Mistake #2: Using regular wood screws. They rust and stain vinyl siding. Always use stainless steel or coated screws.

Common Mistake #3: Skipping the pilot hole. I’ve seen vinyl siding split like potato chips from direct screw insertion. Always drill first.

Personal Insight: I once installed a camera on a south-facing wall. Big mistake. Direct sunlight heated the battery, and it failed in 6 months. Now I avoid sun-exposed areas or use shade covers.

Remember: how to attach Arlo camera to siding in 2026 easy guide isn’t just about drilling and mounting. It’s about long-term durability, weather resistance, and smart placement.

FAQs About How to Attach Arlo Camera to Siding in 2026 Easy Guide

Q: Can I attach an Arlo camera to vinyl siding without drilling?
A: Technically, yes—with heavy-duty outdoor adhesive strips (like 3M VHB). But I don’t recommend it. Siding expands and contracts with temperature, and adhesives fail over time. Drilling with proper sealing is far more reliable.

Q: What if my siding is old or damaged?
A: Avoid installing on cracked, warped, or loose sections. Repair or replace the siding first. A camera on damaged siding will eventually fall—and could damage your home’s exterior.

Q: Do I need a professional for this?
A: Not at all! This is a DIY-friendly job if you’re comfortable with a drill. Just follow the steps in this how to attach Arlo camera to siding in 2026 easy guide. If you’re unsure, ask a friend to help—two sets of eyes are better than one.

Q: How do I hide the power cord?
A: If you’re using a wired Arlo, run the cord behind the siding (if possible) or use a cord cover. For solar models, place the panel near the camera. I use black zip ties and paint them to match the siding for a cleaner look.

Q: Can I remove the mount later without leaving holes?
A: Yes, but the holes will remain. Fill them with caulk or a vinyl siding plug (available at hardware stores). It won’t be invisible, but it’ll be weatherproof.

Q: What’s the best height for an Arlo camera on siding?
A: 8–10 feet is ideal. Low enough to capture faces, high enough to deter tampering. Avoid placing it where a ladder could reach it.

Q: How often should I check the mount?
A: I do a quick visual check every 3 months. Look for loose screws, cracked caulk, or shifting. A 2-minute inspection can prevent major issues.

Final Thoughts

Installing an Arlo camera on siding doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right approach, you’ll get a secure, weatherproof setup that works for years.

To recap: Choose a solid spot, drill a pilot hole, use the right screws or anchors, seal the holes, and test everything. And don’t forget—this how to attach Arlo camera to siding in 2026 easy guide is all about doing it right the first time.

I’ve used this method on over 15 installs—from my own home to my neighbor’s rental. Every camera is still rock-solid, even after heavy storms and freezing winters.

So grab your drill, follow these steps, and enjoy peace of mind. Your home deserves a camera that’s not just smart—but smartly installed.

And if you run into trouble? Take a breath, re-read this guide, and remember: every pro was once a beginner with a wonky camera.

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