Everything You Need to Know to Choose the Perfect Vent Cover
Choosing the right vent cover isn’t just about what fits — it’s about finding a solution that complements your style, functions seamlessly, and lasts for generations. Whether you’re renovating a historic home or designing a modern space, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting a register (also known as a vent cover) that works beautifully and looks incredible.
Step 1: Know Your Options — What Type of Vent Cover Do You Really Need?
Before you start measuring or picking a design, it’s important to understand all the types of vent covers available — and what each one does.
Most people assume there’s only one kind of vent, but there are actually a few categories, each with specific functions.
Registers
- Designed for air supply
- Includes an adjustable louver to control the flow of air into the room
- Ideal when you want to adjust or shut off airflow
Return Grilles
- Used for air return
- Does not include an adjustable louver but you can add an independent louver
- Typically installed on walls or ceilings to let air flow back to the HVAC system
Decorative Grilles
- Available for both registers and returns
- Can be wall-mounted, floor-mounted, or ceiling-mounted
- Does not include an adjustable louver but you can add it independently
Choosing the right type of cover isn’t just about replacing what was there before — it’s about optimizing airflow and upgrading the look of your space.
And here’s where Reggio Register excels: we offer customizable, beautifully crafted covers for all types — from registers and returns to decorative enhancements with flow and directional control. You can also order grilles and returns that match. If you're not sure which one you need, our expert team is here to help you figure it out.
Step 2: Start With the Right Fit — Custom Sizes Matter
One of the most common missteps when replacing a vent cover is measuring the faceplate instead of the duct opening. Always measure the interior of the duct — that’s the number you’ll use to size your new register or grille.
When to Consider Custom Sizes:
- Older homes with non-standard duct openings
- New builds with unique architectural features
- Wall or ceiling returns that need precise alignment
At Reggio Register, we specialize in custom-size registers — from compact hallways to oversized living rooms, we ensure a perfect fit, every time.
Step 3: Decide on Airflow Control — Adjustable Louvers, Directional Louvers or Both?
Controlling how and where air flows is key to maintaining comfort — and energy efficiency — in your home.
What’s an Adjustable Louver?
An adjustable louver allows you to turn airflow on or off. At Reggio Register, the adjustable louver tension fits inside the duct and opens and closes with a screwdriver keeping your register looking clean and minimal from the outside.
What’s a Directional Louver?
A directional louver directs airflow up, down, or to the sides. You can direct air away from walls and into the room. Our directional louvers are mounted on the back side of the vent cover so your aesthetic is never interrupted.
Do I Have to Choose One or the Other?
Not anymore. At Reggio, you can opt for both an adjustable louver and a directional louver, giving you full control over whether air flows and how it flows. You won’t find that anywhere else.
Step 4: Match Form to Function — Choose a Design that Performs
One of the biggest challenges with decorative vent covers? Many sacrifice performance for looks. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
Reggio Register vent covers are engineered with more than 45% open area to deliver perfect aesthetics without compromising airflow. Every grille is crafted for durability, beauty, and performance — whether you’re going for historical elegance or clean, contemporary lines.
Featured Style: The Clodagh Collection
Designed in collaboration with the renowned designer Clodagh, this minimalist line combines Zen-like simplicity with architectural sophistication. A favorite among high-end designers, this collection proves that a register can be both subtle and stunning.
Explore the Clodagh Collection and discover design harmony in its purest form.
Step 5: Customize to Your Heart’s Content
Your space is unique — and your vent covers should be, too. Reggio Register offers extensive customization options so your register works in your space and reflects your style.
Available Customizations:
- Size – Standard or completely custom
- Material – Aluminum, steel, wood
- Finish – Black, white, bronze, paintable options, and more
- Accessories – Add-on dampers, louvers, or both
- Pattern – Choose from historic reproductions, modern minimalism, or something uniquely yours
And every register is made in Leominster, MA, by expert craftspeople with decades of experience and backed by a lifetime guarantee.
FAQs: Your Register Questions, Answered
What size register do I need?
Measure the duct opening, not the old grille. For example, if your duct measures 10" x 4", that’s the size you need — even if your existing cover is larger.
Can I get a custom wall return?
Yes. Reggio Register specializes in custom wall returns, ensuring that your intake vents match your design and dimensions.
Can decorative covers reduce airflow?
Low-quality decorative covers might — but Reggio’s designs are engineered to maintain optimal airflow, with patterns that are as functional as they are beautiful.
What’s the benefit of directional louvers?
They let you control the direction of airflow — ideal for enhancing comfort in living rooms, bedrooms, and offices.
A Register Should Never Be an Afterthought
Registers might be one of the most overlooked design elements in a home — but they don’t have to be. With the right balance of form, function, and customization, your vent cover can become a subtle centerpiece that elevates the entire room.
At Reggio Register, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between performance and beauty. Our handcrafted registers and return grilles offer superior airflow, unmatched durability, and timeless style — all tailored to your space.