Collection: 4x8 Modern Vent Covers

8x4 Vent Cover: Sizing Guide, Types & Expert Buying Advice

An 8x4 vent cover fits a duct opening that measures 8 inches long by 4 inches wide — and confirming that measurement before you order saves you from a frustrating return. This is one of the most common residential sizes, appearing on walls and ceilings in living rooms, hallways, and bedrooms. This guide covers everything you need: size verification, available types, buying criteria, and Green Vent's verified 8x4 options, so you can choose with confidence and move forward.

Before selecting a product type, confirm your duct opening measurement first — the section below walks you through it in three steps.

What Does "8x4" Mean? (And How to Confirm Your Measurement)

"8x4" always refers to the duct opening — the hole in the wall or ceiling — measured 8 inches in length by 4 inches in height, not the outer face of the cover already installed on top. The cover's flanged face overlaps the opening on all sides, so an 8x4 duct opening yields a cover outer face of approximately 9.75" × 5.75".

Follow these three steps to confirm your size before ordering:

1. Remove the old cover by unscrewing it from the wall or ceiling surface.
2. Measure the duct opening — width and length at the inner wall edge, not the old cover's outer face.
3. Confirm both dimensions match 8 inches × 4 inches before placing your order.

Note that "8x4" and "4x8" describe the same duct opening. Manufacturers simply list length or width first depending on their labeling convention, but both terms refer to an identical duct.

For irregular or oversized openings, see our complete How to Measure Vent Covers.

Types of 8x4 Vent Covers: What's Available

Eight-by-four vent covers are available in four primary types — each designed for a different airflow function and placement — so the correct choice depends on whether the duct is supplying or returning air, and where it sits in your home.

With the type identified, you now need clear decision criteria to finalize your selection.

How to Choose the Right 8x4 Vent Cover for Your Home

Choosing the right 8x4 vent cover comes down to four variables: material, placement, airflow control, and finish.

• Material: Aluminum resists rust naturally, making it a strong choice for humid rooms such as bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry areas. Steel is heavier and can corrode over time without a protective coating — a meaningful difference in moisture-prone spaces. For a full material breakdown, see our Steel vs. Aluminum Vent Covers.
• Placement: Wall and ceiling applications benefit from a linear slot profile, which distributes conditioned air more evenly across a room. Match the cover type to the duct's supply or return function before ordering.
• Airflow Control: Supply vents should include an adjustable damper to control the airflow into a room and support room-by-room energy efficiency. Return vents do not require a damper — a fixed grille is the appropriate choice there.
• Finish: White integrates cleanly into neutral interiors; black delivers architectural contrast and a statement look. Both finishes are available in Green Vent's aluminum slot diffuser lineup.

Green Vent 8x4 Vent Covers: Aluminum Linear Slot Diffuser Collection

Green Vent offers the 8x4 Aluminum Linear Slot Diffuser in two finish options — White and Black, designed for wall and ceiling supply air applications.

Both covers are rust-proof, lightweight, and designed for quieter HVAC operation. The minimalist profile integrates flush with modern interior walls and ceilings — no visual clutter, no exposed hardware on the face. The adjustable airflow controller lets you direct conditioned air precisely where it is needed, which can help improve room comfort and reduce energy waste. Installation requires only a standard screwdriver, making this a practical DIY upgrade for any modern home.

Browse Green Vent's full Linear Slot Diffuser collection to view complete specs, installation dimensions, and available pack options for your next 8x4 vent cover.

Installing Your 8x4 Vent Cover: What to Know

Green Vent's 8x4 Aluminum Linear Slot Diffuser installs with a standard screwdriver in just a few minutes, using side-mount screws that keep the face free of visible hardware. Align the cover face over the duct opening, secure it with the included side screws, and adjust the airflow controller to your preferred direction. For a complete step-by-step walkthrough, see our Linear Slot Diffuser Installation Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions About 8x4 Vent Covers

Is an 8x4 vent cover the same as a 4x8 vent cover?

Yes — an 8x4 and a 4x8 vent cover describe the same duct opening. Manufacturers list length or width first depending on their labeling convention, but both terms fit an identical duct.

Will an 8x4 cover fit a duct opening that measures 8.25" × 4.1"?

Yes — standard 8x4 covers include a flanged overlap of approximately 0.75–1 inch per side, which accommodates minor duct sizing variations within normal tolerance. Measure the duct opening directly if you are unsure.

Why choose aluminum over plastic for an 8x4 vent cover?

Aluminum is rust-proof, longer-lasting, and maintains its finish in humid rooms where plastic can warp or discolor over time. See our full Steel vs. Aluminum comparison for more.