When closing unused inlet openings in vents, what might an approved method include?

When addressing unused inlet openings in vents, using metal plates is an approved method due to their durability, strength, and ability to create an airtight seal. Metal plates can effectively prevent any unwanted airflow, debris ingress, or pests from entering through these openings. They can be securely fastened to ensure they remain in place over time, providing a permanent and reliable closure solution.

Temporary sealing tape, while it may work in some scenarios, is generally not regarded as a long-term solution due to its susceptibility to wear and environmental degradation. Caulking compounds can also be used, but they might not provide the same level of structural integrity or security as metal plates. Concrete fill, while effective for certain applications, is often impractical for sealing openings in vents due to its weight and the complexity involved in the installation process. Therefore, metal plates are favored for such applications in industry standards and best practices.