The Stylish DIY Way To Upgrade Your Air Vents On A Budget

Let's be honest — air vents can be a major eye-sore. If you're tired of looking at your unsightly vent every time you pass by, there are a few ways to fix the aesthetic issue. You can't completely cover your air vents or that would defeat their purpose. However, that doesn't mean you can't upgrade their look. We've discovered a stylish and budget-friendly way to give your air vent a brand-new appearance.

All you need for this clever hack is an aluminum sheet, decorative trim, metal snips, caulk, and a staple gun. If you want to give the aluminum sheet an additional visual upgrade, you can spray paint it in the metallic shade of your choice. Try using the Rust-Oleum Metallic Spray Paint, which is available in several colors. It is safe — and even recommended — to use metal-friendly spray paint on return vents. Next, cut the aluminum sheet with the metal snips just larger than the size of your vent and attach it to your wall with the staple gun, after removing the old vent cover. For the finishing touch, adhere the wall trim around the vent to create a picture-frame effect. If there are any gaps, you can use white paint or caulk to cover the trim. For a pop of contrast, try painting the trim in a darker shade! Before you jump headfirst into this unique DIY, there are a few pros and cons to consider.

One question that some may have about this hack is how would you be able to change the filters after locking the aluminum in place with the surrounding trim? Some air conditioning filters are located in the return vent, which would pose a problem in the case of this hack. However, other systems have it located in or near the furnace. If your filter isn't in the return vent, this hack is much more practical. On the other hand, if this hack would cause you to seal off access to your filter, it's not the best solution for your space.

That doesn't mean you have to forgo this stylish concept altogether. The key is to figure out a way to make the new cover easily removable. Try turning it into a magnetic filter grill with strips like the DTLHCNCT Strong Adhesive Magnetic Tape. Another advantage to a more temporary solution is that it makes cleaning much easier, especially if your following a specific air duct cleaning schedule. There are also plenty of hacks to clean your vent covers, but it's nearly impossible if you're only able to access them from one side. The good news is, if you forgo the trim or opt for a removable solution, the aluminum sheet itself isn't difficult to take off and re-staple to the wall. Looking for more ways to decorate your air vent? This TikTok hack makes your air vents look like a work of art.