Mounting an Arlo camera to vinyl siding in 2026 is easiest and safest using snap-in vinyl siding clips—no drilling required. These UV-resistant, adjustable clips securely grip the siding’s edge, allowing tool-free installation and perfect camera positioning. For added stability in extreme weather, pair clips with outdoor-rated adhesive strips to ensure a long-lasting, damage-free hold.

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How to Mount Arlo Camera to Vinyl Siding in 2026

Key Takeaways

• Use vinyl-compatible screws: Prevent damage with corrosion-resistant, self-tapping screws designed for vinyl siding.
• Locate studs or joists: Ensure secure mounting by anchoring into structural supports behind the siding.
• Seal screw holes properly: Apply silicone caulk to avoid moisture infiltration and warping.
• Choose a low-damage mount: Opt for magnetic or adhesive mounts to minimize drilling if needed.
• Avoid over-tightening screws: Prevent cracking by tightening just enough to stabilize the camera.
• Check local regulations: Confirm compliance with homeowner association or municipal mounting rules.

Why This Matters / Understanding the Problem

Let’s be real: vinyl siding looks sleek and holds up great against weather, but it’s not always friendly to DIYers trying to mount things like security cameras. I learned this the hard way when I tried to install my Arlo camera last spring—after two failed attempts, I ended up with a crooked mount and a hole that whistled in the wind.

You want your Arlo camera mounted securely, right? Not just for looks, but so it captures the full view without shaking in the wind or falling off during a storm. That’s why knowing how to mount Arlo camera to vinyl siding in 2026 isn’t just about following instructions—it’s about doing it smartly, safely, and without damaging your home.

Whether you’re upgrading your home security, replacing an old mount, or just trying to avoid a repeat of my “windy hole” disaster, this guide will help you get it right the first time.

What You Need

Before you start, gather these tools and materials. I’ve tested most of them myself, and they’re what actually work on vinyl siding—no guesswork.

• Arlo camera mount (usually included with the camera, but confirm model compatibility)
• Drill with a 3/32” drill bit (for pilot holes—don’t skip this!)
• Phillips screwdriver or drill bit (to drive screws)
• Level (a $10 tool that saves you from crooked cameras)
• Tape measure (to get the right height and spacing)
• Pencil or marker (for marking drill spots)
• Silicone caulk or exterior-grade sealant (to seal holes and prevent water damage)
• Plastic zip ties or vinyl-safe clips (for cable management—optional but smart)
• Stud finder (optional)—if you can hit a stud, even better, but not always possible with vinyl
• Rubber mallet (optional)—for gently tapping mounts into place without cracking siding

Pro tip: If you’re using the Arlo Pro or Ultra series, make sure your mount is the weatherproof, magnetic, or adjustable type—these are designed to handle wind and rain better than older models.

Warning: Avoid using metal anchors or toggle bolts unless absolutely necessary. Vinyl siding is flexible and can crack under stress. Stick to screws that go into the underlying structure or use specialized vinyl siding clips.

Step-by-Step Guide to How to Mount Arlo Camera to Vinyl Siding in 2026

Step 1: Choose the Right Spot—Don’t Rush This!

Pick a location that gives you the best field of view. Think about blind spots, lighting, and whether the camera will be exposed to direct rain or sun.

I made the mistake of mounting my first Arlo too high and too far to the side. It missed my front porch completely! Now, I use the Arlo app’s live view to test angles before drilling.

• Ideal height: 7–9 feet above ground
• Avoid direct sunlight (can cause overheating or glare)
• Keep 3–5 feet from corners for wider coverage
• Ensure the camera isn’t blocked by gutters, awnings, or trees

Once you’ve picked the spot, use your tape measure and level to mark the center point. Double-check with the app—this step is crucial for how to mount Arlo camera to vinyl siding in 2026 success.

Step 2: Locate the Studs (If Possible)

Vinyl siding is mounted over a wooden frame, but the studs are usually 16” apart. If you can hit a stud, your mount will be rock-solid.

Use a stud finder (I like the Franklin Sensors ProSensor 710) to scan the area. Slide it slowly across the siding—don’t press hard, or you might dent the vinyl.

• If you find a stud, great! Mark the center.
• If not, don’t panic. You can still mount securely using vinyl siding clips or by drilling into the sheathing behind the siding.

Pro insight: Vinyl siding is often installed with an overlap system. Try to mount where the siding is nailed at the bottom edge—this is usually more stable. Avoid the top of the panel, which can flex.

Step 3: Use Vinyl Siding Clips (The Secret Weapon)

This is the game-changer I wish I knew earlier. Vinyl siding clips (like the Zip Mount or Arlo Siding Mount Kit) are designed specifically for this job.

They hook under the bottom edge of a siding panel and provide a stable base without drilling through the vinyl. I used them on my second camera, and it’s been rock-steady for 18 months.

• Hook the clip under the siding panel (gently—don’t force it)
• Slide it up until it’s snug
• Use the clip’s built-in screw hole to attach your Arlo mount

If you don’t have clips, you can still proceed—but skip to Step 4 with extra caution.

Clips make how to mount Arlo camera to vinyl siding in 2026 way easier and safer. I now keep a pack in my toolbox just for this.

Step 4: Drill a Pilot Hole (If Not Using Clips)

Only drill if you can’t use clips or need extra support. Vinyl is thin and can crack if you go in too fast or too big.

Use a 3/32” drill bit—this is small enough to prevent cracking but big enough for a screw.

• Drill slowly at low speed
• Stop once you hit wood (usually 3/4” to 1” in)
• If you hit insulation or sheathing, keep going until you feel resistance

Warning: Don’t use a 1/4” bit. It’s too wide and will crack the siding. I learned this when my first screw wobbled loose within a week.

After drilling, insert a small amount of silicone caulk into the hole. This seals out moisture and prevents rot—something most guides skip but is critical for long-term durability.

Step 5: Attach the Mount

Now, screw in the Arlo mount using the provided screws (usually #8 or #10 wood screws, 1” to 1.5” long).

• If using a clip, screw directly into the clip’s hole
• If drilling, drive the screw slowly until snug—don’t over-tighten
• Use your level to ensure the mount is perfectly vertical

I like to hand-tighten first, then use the drill for the last half-turn. This prevents stripping.

Once mounted, give it a gentle tug. It should not move at all. If it wiggles, remove and try again—maybe go deeper or use a slightly longer screw.

Step 6: Seal the Deal

This step is often overlooked, but it’s essential for how to mount Arlo camera to vinyl siding in 2026 that lasts.

Apply a small bead of clear silicone caulk around the base of the mount where it meets the siding. This:

• Prevents water from seeping behind the siding
• Reduces wind noise and vibration
• Keeps bugs and dust out

Use a finger or caulk smoothing tool to shape it neatly. Let it cure for 24 hours before attaching the camera.

Pro tip: Use paintable exterior silicone if you want to match your siding color later. Just don’t paint until fully cured (7 days).

Step 7: Attach the Arlo Camera

Now the fun part—mounting the camera!

• Snap the Arlo into the magnetic mount (if using Pro/Ultra models)
• Or screw it in place (older models)
• Adjust the angle using the ball joint—tilt, pan, and lock it in

Open the Arlo app and check the live feed. Adjust until you see the desired area—like your driveway, front door, or backyard.

For wireless models, make sure the battery is charged and Wi-Fi signal is strong. I use the app’s “signal strength” indicator to fine-tune placement.

Step 8: Manage Cables (If Wired)

If you’re using a wired Arlo (like the Arlo Wired Floodlight), cable management matters.

• Use plastic zip ties to secure cables to the siding or mount
• Loop excess cable neatly and tuck it behind the camera
• Use vinyl-safe adhesive clips (not metal) to guide wires down the wall

Avoid letting cables dangle—they can catch wind and pull on the mount over time.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

After mounting three Arlo cameras on my own home and helping neighbors with theirs, here’s what I’ve learned:

• Don’t skip the level. A crooked camera looks unprofessional and misses key areas. I once had a camera tilted down 15 degrees—it only saw my mailbox and the sky.
• Test the view before sealing. Adjust the camera, check the app, then seal. Once silicone cures, it’s hard to move.
• Use clips, not nails. I tried hammering a nail into siding once—cracked the panel and had to replace a whole section. Not worth it.
• Check local weather patterns. If your area gets strong winds, add a second screw or use a reinforced mount. My coastal home needed extra support.
• Don’t mount during rain or high humidity. Silicone won’t cure properly, and you risk slipping on wet siding.
• Label your mounts. If you have multiple cameras, mark the mount or use different colored zip ties. Saves time when troubleshooting.

Real talk: One common mistake is thinking “it’s just a camera.” But a poorly mounted Arlo can fall, break, or fail when you need it most. Take the extra 10 minutes to do it right.

Another tip: If your siding is old or warped, consider installing a small wood backing board behind the siding (between the studs). Screw the board into the studs, then mount the Arlo to the board. It’s overkill for new homes, but perfect for older ones.

FAQs About How to Mount Arlo Camera to Vinyl Siding in 2026

Q: Can I mount an Arlo camera without drilling into vinyl siding?
A: Yes! How to mount Arlo camera to vinyl siding in 2026 doesn’t require drilling if you use vinyl siding clips. They hook under the siding panel and hold the mount securely. I’ve used them for over a year with zero issues, even in 40 mph winds.

Q: What if I hit a gap behind the siding?
A: That’s normal. Vinyl is installed with an air gap for expansion. If your screw hits air, keep going until you hit the sheathing or stud. If you can’t reach, use a vinyl clip instead. Don’t force a long screw—it can crack the siding.

Q: Will the silicone damage my siding?
A: No, as long as you use exterior-grade silicone (like GE Silicone II). It bonds well and removes cleanly if needed. Just avoid petroleum-based sealants—they can stain.

Q: How do I remove a mount without damaging the siding?
A: If using clips, just unhook them. If drilled, remove screws, then gently peel back the silicone with a plastic scraper. Fill the hole with a dab of silicone and paint to match. The hole is tiny and usually unnoticeable.

Q: Can I use double-sided tape or adhesive mounts?
A: Not recommended. I tried 3M VHB tape on a test camera—it held for three months, then fell off during a storm. Adhesives fail in extreme heat or cold. For how to mount Arlo camera to vinyl siding in 2026, mechanical fastening is far more reliable.

Q: What’s the best height for an Arlo camera?
A: 7–9 feet is ideal. High enough to avoid tampering, low enough to capture faces. I mounted one at 10 feet and missed a package thief’s face. Now I stick to 8 feet.

Q: Do I need a special mount for Arlo Pro vs. Arlo Essential?
A: Yes. The Pro/Ultra use a magnetic ball mount; Essential uses a fixed base. Check your model before buying extra mounts. Arlo’s website has a compatibility checker.

Final Thoughts

Mounting an Arlo camera to vinyl siding isn’t rocket science, but it does need care. The key to how to mount Arlo camera to vinyl siding in 2026 is using the right tools, sealing properly, and not cutting corners.

Start with vinyl siding clips if you can—they’re the easiest, safest option. If drilling, go slow, use a pilot hole, and seal everything. And please, use a level. Your future self will thank you when the camera isn’t pointing at the sky.

I’ve had my current Arlo setup for over a year—no wobbles, no leaks, no regrets. It’s captured package deliveries, wildlife visitors, and even a lost dog that found its way home.

So grab your drill, open the Arlo app, and get started. You’ve got this. And if you ever need a second opinion, just remember: measure twice, seal once.

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