Introduction
Your kitchen is the hub of your home and every detail should reflect your personal style. But what if the range hood, a focal point in your space, doesn’t quite fit your vision? Good news: you can make your own! Building a range hood isn’t as hard as you think and it’s a great way to add a custom touch to your kitchen. Whether you like modern, rustic or anything in between this guide will show you how to build a range hood to match your own kitchen space well.
TL;DR: Build a custom range hood, to match your kitchen style in this quick guide. We’ll cover materials, design and a step by step process!
Before you build a range hood cover
The build hood cover can save you thousands if you do this DIY. And this is quite easy to build. But not all installations or spaces are the same same size. You must also make the right choices for the range hood cover. Make a good choice. Be careful and make the cover fit your application.
Measure range hood size, spacing, shape
We looked on Pinterest and found nothing. But then I decided on just something. I wanted more counter space so the corbels couldn’t be placed on the exterior wall under the kitchen like we planned: I wanted to get our kitchen design plan ready.
How to Build a DIY Kitchen Range Hood
We had no range hood already so there was no frame to put it in. This was the easiest way to build our frame. Our first project was three frames built on 44 boards. Our frames were made to be almost exact to our hood size. This fits perfectly. The hood vent is attached from the top to the top frame and therefore there are 24 extra support pieces in this box. This 2-x4 was mounted in the same spot as the mounting holes of the rangehoods. Once we built each frame we marked the location on the wall of open space between the cabinets above the stove.
Build your own DIY range hood with these wood range hood covers
So that’s the last big ever kitchen remodel project of all time! Those who have followed this kitchen renovation know our kitchen was gutted when we moved into the house and expanded…. The other day. We’ve been going slow on purpose, we’ve been doing our own thing. This is great with finances and emotional ones I sometimes suffer from. We’re almost done but we don’t need any more happy tears! After we bought the dream stove I knew I wanted custom hood covers.
Add Final Trim
1×2 primed, added interior trim around vents, then glued wood fillers to joints and applied caulking. I used wood laminate strips for each side (covered with screws) and for each corner of the rangehood to give it a craftsman look. I also added wood molding to the top of the 1/64 and to the bottom. Then I added lattice strips to the crown molding. Same steps as before: wood filler, caulking and paint:
Planning and Preparation
Choosing the Range Hood
When choosing a range hood start by considering the size and shape of your cooktop or range cooking surface. You want a hood that covers the entire cooking area for best ventilation. Adjustable lighting is another feature to look for as it makes cooking easier. Make sure the design fits your kitchen style, modern, rustic or traditional. Do you want a ducted kitchen hood or ductless range hood? Depending on your home setup. Finally think about how easy the hood will be to clean as grease and grime can build up over time.
Measure and Design Your DIY Range Hood
First measure the space where the range hood will be installed to determine the size of the cover. Consider both the size same length and shape of the range hood insert and the space above your cooktop. Make sure to leave a little extra room on both sides of the cover for installation. The height of the range hood cover will depend on the manufacturer’s specs for your fan insert so double check those. Accurate measurements are key to your range hood fitting and functioning in your kitchen layout.
Tools & Materials
Before you start your project gather all the different tools and materials you’ll need to build your range hood.
Tools:
- Jigsaw
- Drill
- Pocket hole screws
- Wood screws
- Brad nailer
Materials:
- 2x4s
- 1x4s
- Plywood or MDF for outer cover
- Wood glue
- Decorative trim (if needed) Having all your tools and materials ready will make the process go smoother.
Build the Frame
Build the Support Frame
Start by building the support frame for your range hood using 2x4s. Measure and cut the pieces to fit the space above your cooktop then assemble the frame. Use pocket holes and screws to attach the pieces together. The frame should be solid as it will hold the weight of the range hood cover and the fan insert. Make sure the opening on the side panels and bottom frame is big enough for your range hood insert to fit in. Double check all your measurements before moving on to the next step to ensure a perfect fit and good ventilation.
Add Extra Support and Structure
Once the the hood needed basic frame is built add extra support by using wood beams and interior bracing. Use 2x4s and screw them in with wood screws to reinforce the structure. This will ensure your range hood is strong enough to hold the weight of the cover and insert without sagging. Make sure everything is level as you go so the hood sits straight once installed. Double check all screws are tight and the frame feels solid. This extra bracing will make the range hood last longer and perform better with daily use and heat from cooking.
Install the Range Hood
Install the Vent Hood Insert
Now that your top hood frame is built it’s time to install the vent hood insert. Place the insert into the hole cut the frame carefully making sure it fits in snug. Screw it in according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Then attach the ducting to the vent hood insert making sure there are no gaps where air can escape. Once everything is connected test the ventilation system to make sure it’s working. Turn it on and check for airflow. This step is crucial to ensure your range hood works and keeps your kitchen smoke and odor free.
Install the Range Hood Cover
Cut a piece of 1/4″ plywood to fit the front of your range hood from the top edge to the ceiling. This will give it a finished look. Attach the corner pieces to the plywood to the frame with a brad nailer making sure it’s secure. Once the plywood is in place add decorative trim around the vent. Make sure the cover is attached to the wall studs so it doesn’t shift or wobble. This final step will give your range hood a custom look that matches your kitchen.
Dry Fit Range Hood Vent
Before you finalize your range hood do a dry fit by placing the vent in position to check for any adjustments needed. This step will ensure everything lines up. Once you’re happy with the fit add any extra tile around the vent to match the frame. Make sure the tile covers all the difference in gaps and lines up neat. After tiling apply grout to the nail holes in the tile to seal everything in place and give it a finished look. This step will make your range hood look clean and professional and function better.
Final Steps
Add Trim and Molding
To finish your range hood add trim and molding to the front and sides. These finishing touches are great project will make it look nice and match your kitchen. First position the trim and molding where you want them and use clamps to hold everything in place. Once you’re happy with the placement use finish nails or long screws to screw the trim and molding to the frame. This will give your range hood a finished look. Make sure the trim is even and secure for a clean finish.
Paint and Finish
To paint your range hood paint it the same color as the vertical planking on your walls for a matched look with clean lines. Use a smooth skinny roller to apply the paint evenly and get a smooth finish. Before you start painting tape off the stove vent insert to protect it from paint spills. Paint carefully making sure to get all areas covered. Let it dry completely before removing the tape. This will give your range hood a fresh finish and match your kitchen.
Final Installation and Done
Install
First attach the range hood cover to the wall studs so it doesn’t move. Check the cover is level and the stud locations are aligned. Next attach a pipe to the fan housing to connect to the electrical outlet and outside vent which removes the smoke and odors from your kitchen. Before you lift the fan into place wire it according to the manufacture’s instructions. Once everything is wired lift the fan into place and secure it. Double check all connections and make sure it’s solid and functional for best performance.
Enjoy Your New Range Hood
The finished range hood looks great in our kitchen. It matches the vertical planking on the walls perfectly. The simple range hood inserts makes the laminate backsplash and countertops pop. We love how it all turned out and it was fun. The new range hood looks good and works good too. Enjoy!
Done
Ready to add some custom to your kitchen? Now you know how to build a range hood to match your style. Imagine a custom range hood that fits and adds to your kitchen. With the right tools and steps you can make a functional and beautiful piece. Whether you want modern or rustic this guide has given you the basics to make it happen. Go DIY and enjoy your kitchen.