FAQ
About Plaster-In Vents
What is a plaster-in vent?
A plaster-in vent (also called a trimless vent) is an HVAC outlet designed to be completely integrated into your wall or ceiling surface. Unlike traditional vents with visible frames or grilles, plaster-in vents can be finished flush with your surface—whether that's drywall, plaster, Venetian plaster, or other decorative finishes. The result is either a completely invisible vent or a subtle architectural detail that doesn't disrupt your design aesthetic.
How do plaster-in vents work?
Plaster-in vents have a recessed installation frame that sits behind your wall surface. After installation, you apply your finish material (plaster, joint compound, or paint) directly over and around the vent opening. The airflow pattern is engineered to work with this flush installation, providing effective climate control while maintaining a seamless appearance.
Can I paint over plaster-in vents?
Yes, our plaster-in vents are designed to be painted or plastered over. The perforated patterns and openings allow air to flow through even when finished with paint or thin layers of plaster. For best results, use the same finish as your surrounding walls or ceilings. Many customers paint them to match exactly, making them virtually invisible.
What's the difference between invisible integration and architectural accent installation?
Our vents offer two installation approaches. Invisible integration means finishing the vent to match your walls perfectly—same color, same texture—so it disappears completely. Architectural accent installation means intentionally highlighting the vent as a design feature, perhaps using a contrasting color or leaving the geometric pattern exposed as visual interest. Both approaches provide the same airflow performance.
High-Velocity HVAC Systems
What is a high-velocity HVAC system?
High-velocity HVAC systems (like Unico and SpacePak) use small, flexible 2-inch ducts and higher air pressure to deliver heating and cooling. These systems are popular in renovations and historic homes because the small ductwork can be routed through existing walls without major structural changes. They require specialized outlets designed to handle higher air velocity while minimizing noise.
How do I know if I have a high-velocity HVAC system?
If your home has small, round 2-inch vents (about the size of a soda can) and you have a Unico, SpacePak, or similar system, you have high-velocity HVAC. Traditional systems use larger rectangular or round vents (typically 4 inches or larger). Check your HVAC documentation or ask your installer if you're unsure.
Do high-velocity vents work with traditional HVAC systems?
No, high-velocity vents are specifically engineered for the smaller ductwork and higher pressure of high-velocity systems. We offer separate products for traditional HVAC systems with standard duct sizes (4-inch, 5-inch, 6-inch, and larger). Make sure to select the correct vent type for your system.
Are high-velocity vents louder than traditional vents?
When properly designed, high-velocity vents should not be significantly louder. Our high-velocity outlets feature optimized airflow characteristics that minimize noise while maximizing performance. The precision of our digital additive manufacturing process allows us to create internal airflow features and geometries that reduce turbulence and whistle—common noise sources in high-velocity systems. The key is using vents specifically engineered for high-velocity applications—using the wrong vent type can create excessive noise.
Advanced Manufacturing Technology
What is additive manufacturing, and why does it matter for HVAC vents?
Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, builds products layer by layer using digital designs. For HVAC vents, this technology is revolutionary. Unlike traditional manufacturing methods (injection molding, stamping, or casting) that are limited by mold constraints and tooling requirements, additive manufacturing lets us create complex internal geometries, optimized airflow channels, and sophisticated patterns that would be physically impossible to produce any other way.
How does your manufacturing process create better airflow?
Our digital manufacturing process allows us to engineer internal airflow features with precision impossible in traditional manufacturing. We can create gradual transitions, optimized diffusion patterns, turbulence-reducing geometries, and directional flow characteristics that maximize air distribution while minimizing noise. Traditional vents are limited to simple holes or straight channels—our vents can have sophisticated internal architectures specifically designed for your comfort.
Why use plastic polymer instead of metal for vents?
Our engineering-grade polymer material offers several advantages for plaster-in applications. It accepts paint and plaster finishes better than metal, won't rust or corrode, provides excellent dimensional stability (no warping), and allows us to create the complex geometries needed for optimal airflow. For applications requiring additional strength, we incorporate encapsulated high-strength steel reinforcement in larger vents and stainless steel pins in high-stress areas—combining the best properties of both materials.
Are polymer vents as durable as metal vents?
Yes, when properly engineered. Our polymer formulation is selected specifically for long-term durability in HVAC applications, where it needs to handle temperature variations, humidity, physical stress during installation, and decades of service. The encapsulated steel reinforcement in larger vents and stainless steel pins in certain designs provide structural strength where needed, while the polymer provides corrosion resistance, finish compatibility, and design flexibility that metal alone cannot offer.
Does additive manufacturing mean each vent is custom-made?
In essence, yes. Our on-demand digital manufacturing process means we're not pulling pre-made inventory from a warehouse—each vent is manufactured specifically for orders. This approach gives us tremendous flexibility for customization, allows us to continuously improve designs based on real-world performance, and means you're getting vents made with the latest engineering refinements rather than old inventory sitting on shelves.
Installation Questions
Can I install plaster-in vents in an existing home?
Yes, our plaster-in vents work for both new construction and renovation projects. For renovations, you'll need to cut openings in your existing walls or ceilings, install the vent frames, and then refinish around them. Many contractors and skilled DIYers successfully retrofit these vents during remodeling projects.
Do I need special tools to install plaster-in vents?
Installation requires standard tools: a drill, appropriate hole saw or cutting tool for your duct size, and finishing tools for plaster or drywall. The vent frames install like standard HVAC outlets. The specialized part is the finishing work—you'll want experience with drywall or plaster finishing to achieve the seamless look.
Can a DIYer install these vents, or do I need a professional?
The mechanical installation (connecting to ductwork) is straightforward for anyone comfortable with basic HVAC work. However, achieving a truly seamless plaster-in finish requires skilled drywall or plaster finishing. We recommend DIYers with finishing experience can handle the entire installation, while others might want to hire a professional finisher for the best aesthetic results.
What finishes work with plaster-in vents?
Our vents work with drywall (painted), traditional plaster, Venetian plaster, lime plaster, and similar wall finishes. The durable polymer material accepts paint and plaster finishes beautifully, creating a strong bond with your finishing materials. They work best with materials that can be painted or finished to match surrounding surfaces.
How do I maintain proper airflow after plastering?
Our vent designs include carefully engineered perforations or openings that remain clear even after finishing. The precision of our additive manufacturing process ensures these airflow passages are optimally sized and positioned for maximum performance. Avoid applying thick layers of material directly over the air passages. Light coats of paint or thin plaster layers work best. The geometric patterns in our designs ensure adequate airflow while maintaining the aesthetic.
Product Selection
Which vent size do I need for my project?
Vent size depends on your HVAC system type and duct size. For high-velocity systems, match the vent to your 2-inch ductwork. For traditional systems, common sizes include 4-inch, 5-inch, 6-inch, and larger rectangular sizes like 8x4 or 12x8 inches. Check your existing ductwork or consult your HVAC installer to determine the correct size.
What's the difference between your square, round, and linear vents?
All shapes provide equivalent airflow performance—the choice is purely aesthetic. Our additive manufacturing process allows us to create equally sophisticated internal airflow geometries regardless of external shape. Square vents offer clean, modern lines. Round vents provide a softer look. Linear vents create elegant horizontal or vertical accents and work especially well on ceilings. Choose based on your interior design preference and the architectural style of your space.
What do the different geometric patterns mean (hexagon, chevron, circle, square)?
The geometric patterns are design options that affect the visual appearance of your vents, especially if you choose to highlight them as architectural accents. All patterns are engineered to provide optimal airflow. Hexagon patterns offer organic geometry, chevron creates directional visual interest, and circles provide classic simplicity. Select the pattern that complements your interior design.
Can I use these vents in commercial spaces?
Absolutely. Our plaster-in vents are ideal for high-end commercial environments including boutique hotels, luxury retail spaces, restaurants, spas, offices, and galleries—anywhere you want effective climate control without compromising interior design. They meet commercial performance requirements while offering the refined aesthetics expected in premium spaces.
Are these vents suitable for ceilings and walls?
Yes, our vents work equally well in ceiling and wall installations. The mounting orientation doesn't affect performance. Ceiling installations are popular for maintaining uninterrupted wall surfaces, while wall installations can be more practical for certain room layouts or HVAC configurations.
Technical Specifications
What materials are your vents made from?
Our vents are manufactured using digital additive manufacturing (3D printing) with durable plastic polymer materials engineered for long-term performance and dimensional stability. Larger vents incorporate encapsulated high-strength steel within the polymer structure for added rigidity and strength. Certain vent designs also feature stainless steel pin reinforcement at critical stress points, ensuring they can handle the demands of professional installation and years of reliable service.
What are the advantages of additive manufacturing for HVAC vents?
Our digital additive manufacturing process allows us to create optimized airflow patterns and internal features that would be impossible to achieve with traditional manufacturing methods like injection molding or metal stamping. This means we can engineer complex geometries that maximize airflow efficiency, reduce turbulence, minimize noise, and improve air distribution—all while maintaining the clean aesthetic of a plaster-in design. Traditional manufacturing constraints don't limit our engineering, so you get superior performance.
How much airflow do these vents provide?
Airflow capacity varies by vent size and design. Our high-velocity outlets are engineered to handle the specific airflow characteristics of high-velocity HVAC systems (typically 25-75 CFM per outlet). Traditional vent sizes accommodate standard system requirements. Specific airflow data, including CFM ratings, pressure drop characteristics, and throw patterns for individual vent models, is available upon request. Contact us with your project requirements, and we'll provide detailed technical specifications to help you and your HVAC professional ensure proper sizing for your specific application.
Can these vents be used with radiant heating systems?
Our products are designed specifically for forced-air HVAC systems (both high-velocity and traditional). They are not suitable for radiant heating, which doesn't use air vents. If you have a hybrid system with both radiant and forced air, our vents would only be used for the forced-air components.
Can these vents be used for kitchen range hoods or high-temperature exhaust?
No. Our vents are designed for HVAC supply and return air applications with normal temperature ranges. They are not rated for high-temperature exhaust applications such as range hoods, stove ventilation, or other cooking exhaust systems where temperatures can exceed safe operating limits for polymer materials. For kitchen exhaust applications, use metal ductwork and vents specifically rated for high-temperature use.
Can I use these vents for bathroom exhaust fans?
Yes! Our vents work beautifully as remote exhaust outlets for bathroom ventilation systems. In luxury bathroom designs, you can install a remote inline exhaust fan in the attic or another location, then connect it via ductwork to one of our plaster-in vents in the bathroom ceiling or wall. This approach provides effective ventilation while maintaining the refined aesthetic of your bathroom—no visible plastic grilles or noisy in-room fans. The result is quiet, invisible exhaust ventilation that matches high-end bathroom finishes.
Ordering and Customization
Do you offer custom sizes or designs?
Yes! Our digital additive manufacturing technology gives us exceptional flexibility for custom solutions. Unlike traditional manufacturing that requires expensive molds or tooling, we can modify designs, adjust dimensions, create unique geometric patterns, or develop entirely new configurations for your specific project requirements. Contact us to discuss your needs—whether that's non-standard sizes, custom airflow characteristics, unique aesthetic patterns, or other specialized requirements.
What's your turnaround time for orders?
Our on-demand digital manufacturing approach allows us to provide rapid turnaround times while maintaining precision quality. Standard products typically ship within a few business days. Custom orders may require additional time depending on complexity, but our additive manufacturing process is significantly faster than traditional manufacturing methods that require tooling setup. Contact us for specific timing on your project.
Do you ship internationally?
Please contact us regarding international shipping. We can accommodate many international destinations, and we're happy to provide specific shipping information for your location.
What if I order the wrong size?
Contact us immediately if you realize you've ordered incorrect sizes. We want to ensure you receive exactly what your project requires. Review our return policy or reach out to our team to discuss options.
Design and Aesthetics
Will these vents work with minimalist or modern interior design?
Absolutely. Our trimless plaster-in vents are perfect for minimalist and modern aesthetics where clean lines and uninterrupted surfaces are priorities. The ability to make them completely invisible aligns perfectly with minimalist design principles that eliminate visual clutter.
Can these vents complement traditional or historic home styles?
Yes. In traditional or historic homes, invisible climate control is often preferable to modern-looking plastic grilles that clash with period details. Our plaster-in vents allow you to add modern HVAC comfort without compromising the architectural integrity of historic spaces. Many historic renovation projects specifically choose our products for this reason.
How do these vents work in luxury or high-end homes?
Our vents are specifically designed for luxury residential applications where both performance and aesthetics matter. High-end homes often feature decorative wall finishes, expensive materials, and refined design details—contexts where standard plastic grilles would be unacceptable. Our plaster-in solutions deliver the climate control performance expected in luxury homes while maintaining the sophisticated aesthetic these spaces demand.
Still Have Questions?
If you don't see your question answered here, please contact us. We're here to help you select the perfect HVAC vents for your project, whether you're an architect, contractor, builder, or homeowner working on your dream space.