I have an old mobile home and the propane furnace costs too much to
run. The vent covers stick up a quarter inch or more. I'd like to
replace them with something I won't trip over. (At 85 a fall is very
dangerous!) The only thing I can come up with that I have is aluminum
flashing. It's pretty thin so likely I'll have to use several layers,
thicker than I'd like. Is there anything else I can use? I looked
around Lowe's but nothing caught my eye. I'm sure there are small
flat pieces of sheet steel available that will work but I can't think
of or find anything.
Suggestions? TIA


I assume these are in the floor? If so, typical flashing, especially
aluminum, is too thin to walk on. HD and similar have sheet metal
in various sizes and thickness. You could see what they have and the
price. A sheet metal fabricator place would have it, could cut it to
size, etc, but I suspect most of them won't do a peanuts deal.
If there is a local welding shop, they might be a possibility.
To install them I'd probably use some construction adhesive and four
screws, weight it down till it cures so it's flat, in contact all
around.

Thinking of putting some foam or other light foamy material into a
sturdy plastic bag and putting it under the flashing. Make it possible
to step on it without putting anything in the duct that can't easily be
removed.


Doesn't sound like a good idea to me. How much does it have to flex for
you to lose your balance and fall down? Also, what support does it have?
Typically there is little to no support for the duct work. The existing
covers rely on the floor to support them.


I agree - "foamy material" under thin tin is a terrible idea.
Depending on the condition of the sub-floor - I might try some
Z-brackets .. 4 - 6 per vent hole ?

https://www.amazon.com/United-Pacifi.../dp/B01HAFR5ZU

maybe modify the existing vent covers to fit into the cavity
for looks and rest snugly on the Z-bracket.
or some other piece to fit flush .. eg. 3/8 1/2 plywood ..
John T.