How to Replace Old Vent Covers in Your Home

Vents for heating and cooling systems are an essential part of most homes, as they deliver climate-controlled air to every room in the house. However, while the vents themselves are highly practical, what about the vent covers? While you could stick with the bland white, louvered design found in most homes, there are several problems with those vent covers, aside from their industrial appearance. A far better option is to replace the vent cover with a more unique and beautiful grille that complements your interior, instead of detracting from it. Fortunately, replacing old vent covers is extremely easy. And at Beaux-Arts Classic Products, we offer an array of stunning styles and historical replicas to replace your old vent cover with a functional work of art. Let’s break down the super-simple steps to making it happen.

What You’ll Need 

• Phillips head Screwdriver
• Plastic wall anchors for screws
• New vents
• Basic cleaning supplies (rags, duster, etc.)
• Flashlight in some cases
• Tape measure

Don’t worry – this is a very easy process, and all vent covers from Beaux-Arts include all the hardware you need to install them.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Old Vent Covers

Step One: Choose Your New Vent Covers 

Before getting started, it helps to know which type of cover you’ll be replacing it with. At Beaux-Arts Classic Products, we have a wide selection of beautiful, high-quality vent covers and return air grilles. Our covers are crafted in the USA using the finest materials and techniques. When choosing new covers, don’t forget to measure the size of your old vent covers. This way, you can be sure that the new ones will fit perfectly. Also, you will want to count the number of vents so that you can buy enough covers for all of them, ensuring a consistent look throughout your home.

Step Two: Remove the Old Vents 

Usually, all it takes to remove the vent covers is a screwdriver. In some cases, the screws may be a little stuck, so having a can of WD-40 handy can make it easier to loosen them. Vent cover screws may require a flathead or Phillips-head screwdriver, so just double-check before getting started. Another point to remember is that you’ll need a place to dump your old covers. Most recycling centers can accept them as scrap metal.

Step Three: Clean Your Vents 

Now that the cover is off, you’ll likely notice dust and other debris inside the vent. Since you’re already there, now is a good time to wipe down the vent as much as possible. Doing this will help prevent dustfrom spreading throughout your house. Next, paint the duct work behind the grille with flat black paint. You can either use an inexpensive paint brush to paint your duct, or use a can of Rustoleum Flat Black Primer spray paint, to paint the duct. If you use a spray can, mask the wall or ceiling area around the duct so you don’t allow black paint to get on your wall or ceiling. By painting the ducts with flat black paint, you block the ability to see a galvanized steel duct behind your new decorative grille. If you want to reach deeper into the vent, tape a duster or rag to a stick. You can use the end of a broom if necessary. We also recommend a flashlight to help you see inside. You may also want to use a vacuum hose to remove debris so that it doesn’t blow all over the place.

Step Four: Install the New Vents 

The most important step to installing your new vent covers is to use a level so you don’t screw the grille in croaked. When it comes to installing a new grille on the ceiling, levels are useless. Instead you need a tape measure if you install the grille with both sides equidistant to the nearest wall, your grille will be parallel to the wall and will look great. Otherwise, all you have to do is pop the cover over the vent, screw it in, and voila, you’re all done! On to the next one.

Discover Beautiful Vent Covers from Beaux-Arts Classic Products

Whether you have a modern or an older home, classically elegant vent covers from Beaux-Arts are sure to make a statement. These covers are expertly designed to be elegant and attractive. We carry gorgeous vent covers in all shapes and sizes so that you can find the perfect match for your home.