Deadline in Sight? How to Accelerate Lead Times on HVAC Projects 

You’re nearly there. The build is framed, finishes are selected, and the final punch list is in sight. But there’s one detail still holding up progress: vent covers. 

For many contractors, HVAC finishing becomes the unexpected bottleneck. Maybe it’s a custom grille still in production. Or the project called for a specialty size that’s nowhere in stock. Regardless of how it happens, one small delay can ripple across your timeline, stalling everything from flooring to final inspections. 

The good news? There are ways to sidestep these slowdowns without compromising on design. Here’s how trade pros are getting ahead of the vent cover delay and how you can too. 

1. Specify Sooner 

Vent covers are often one of the last elements specified but they don’t have to be. Especially in high-end residential and hospitality projects, aligning sizes, styles, and finish selections earlier in the build process can save weeks of back-and-forth later. 

If your project calls for custom dimensions, laser-cut detailing, or a specific metal finish, locking those details in early gives your vendor time to produce and ship on your schedule not theirs. 

Pro Tip: Need help specifying sizes? Our team works directly with contractors and designers to ensure a perfect fit, every time. 

2. Ask About Quick Ship Options 

Not every project requires custom. For tighter timelines, pre-finished styles in standard sizes may be your fastest path to a polished result. 

At Reggio, our Quick Ship collection, including cast aluminum, cast iron, and punched steel registers, typically ships within 24 to 48 hours via FedEx Ground. Depending on your location, you could have product on site within 1–6 business days. 
 
Need it even faster? Trade Pro customers can select expedited shipping options directly at checkout. For non-trade customers, expedited shipping may be available for an added fee, just contact our team after placing your order and we’ll help arrange the fastest delivery possible. 

This is a game-changer for remodels, fast-turnaround commercial projects, or anytime the schedule gets compressed mid-build. 
 

3. Consider Expedited Production for Custom Orders 

When custom is non-negotiable, but the standard 4–6 week timeline isn’t, expedited production can be a lifesaver. 

Reggio offers an expedited manufacturing service for custom-size grilles and our laser-cut steel and aluminum collections. While standard production typically takes 4–6 weeks (or 3–4 weeks for laser-cut styles), our expedited service shortens manufacturing time to just 2 weeks for a modest rush fee.  

Here’s how it works: 

• Place your order online, then contact our team to add the rush service. 
• Or reach out directly to our customer service team to place your order with expedited production built in. 

It’s fast. It’s easy. And it can keep your install dates intact. 

4. Choose Suppliers Who Understand Trade Timelines 

In an industry where time is money, your material partners matter. Look for brands that not only offer quality product, but also reliable lead times, clear communication, and support when plans change. 

Reggio was built with the trade in mind. That means: 

• Fast, consistent fulfillment (especially for standard and Quick Ship SKUs) 
• Proactive shipping updates and tracking 
• Responsive support from reps who know your world 

No surprises. No last-minute scrambles. 

Keep the Project Moving 

Whether you’re managing a full gut renovation or wrapping up a spec home, smart planning and supplier alignment can shave weeks off your closeout timeline, without sacrificing the final result. 

Need support with a tight deadline? We’re here to help. 

→ Explore Quick Ship vent covers 
→ Ask us about expedited production for custom grilles 

Because the last detail shouldn’t be the one that delays the whole job.