I am installing two new front porch lights on a home . The existing single light was wired through hole drilled through the wood exterior wall and aluminum siding and was mounted directly onto the outside of the siding using only the fixture mount as protection for the connection . My question is in new or remodel wiring , what type of mounting box should be used in a woodframe and aluminum sided exterior wet location ?

You can buy vinyl box covers that bring the light flush with a pancake box.. Exterior lights are rated for "light" water exposure. If you go with an exterior rated box, it will need conduit and it will stick out. Make sure you have a good ground.

I was planning to use 3" pancake enclosures for mounting into the sideing and onto the plywood exteroir sheathing . I will look into the vinyl box covers . Thanks ma0641 .

I was planning to use 3" pancake enclosures for mounting into the sideing and onto the plywood exteroir sheathing . I will look into the vinyl box covers . thanks ma0641 .

Look in the vinyl siding area at HD and Lowe's.

Look in the vinyl siding area at HD and Lowes.

Great , will do . Thank you again .