Abstract: A method and an article of manufacture are disclosed for covering structural openings, such as air vents, air intakes, and the like. In various embodiments, an exterior push or pull mechanism is used to attach and firmly hold a vent cover over an opening to form a substantially air-tight seal around the opening. A rigid or semi-rigid rod with an attachment mechanism at an interior end of the rod passes through the vent cover. The attachment mechanism includes a hook, a loop, a suction cup, a strong magnet, and the like. The push mechanism on the exterior of the vent cover includes a spring, a screw, and a shaft gripper, among others. The attachment and push mechanisms are configured to be easily operated with one hand from outside the vent cover, and also to attach the vent cover from a distance without touching the vent cover.