Installing a backsplash in your kitchen is an important design choice that can dramatically impact the look and feel of the space. But when it comes to installation, many homeowners wonder – should you install the backsplash before or after the range hood? Getting the order right is important for achieving the look you want and ensuring proper function. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through the key considerations and best practices for installing backsplash and range hood to help you make the right decisions for your kitchen remodeling project.
Introduction to Backsplashes and Range Hoods
Before diving into installation order, let’s briefly overview what backsplashes and range hoods are and their purpose in the kitchen.
What is a Backsplash?
A backsplash is a protective surface that is installed on the wall behind a countertop, most commonly behind the stove or sink. Backsplashes are typically made of tile, metal, glass, or other water-resistant materials. Not only do they serve a functional purpose of preventing water damage and making messes easier to clean, they also provide an opportunity to add visual interest, color, and texture to the kitchen design.
Popular backsplash ideas include:
- Subway tile
- Glass mosaic tile
- Stone tile
- Metal tile
- Accent tiles
What is a Range Hood?
A range hood is an important kitchen appliance mounted to the wall above the cooktop or range. Its main function is to ventilate the kitchen by removing smoke, grease, odors, and moisture produced during cooking. Range hoods contain powerful fans and filters to capture airborne contaminants before they spread throughout the home.
Key range hood types:
- Ducted – vents outside through exterior wall or roof
- Ductless – recirculates air with carbon filters
- Under cabinet – mounts to bottom of cabinetry
- Chimney style – protrudes from wall with decorative hood
Proper ventilation with a high CFM rating (airflow) is essential for kitchen functionality and comfort, especially when cooking with gas burners.
Should Backsplash be Installed Before or After Range Hood?
When undertaking kitchen remodeling projects, one of the key sequencing questions homeowners face is whether to install the backsplash before or after the range hood.
The standard recommendation is to install the backsplash before mounting the range hood. There are several advantages to putting up backsplash tiles or panels prior to hood installation:
Ensures Proper Fit
Installing the backsplash first allows you to get a precise fit around the hood opening and achieve clean transitions from tile to hood. Since most range hoods protrude slightly from the wall, tiling after installation often leads to awkward gaps or positioning.
Provides Surface to Mount On
The backsplash provides a sturdy, finished wall surface to screw the range hood directly into. This allows the weight to be supported and prevents damage to drywall.
Gives More Design Flexibility
With backsplash in place first, you have maximum flexibility in choices of hood style, size, and placement without being constrained by existing tile layout.
Allows Finishing Touches
Tiling after hood installation often leaves unfinished edges of backsplash visible after the hood is mounted. By installing backsplash first, you can complete all trim details and grout edges fully.
Improves Moisture Protection
Having backsplash behind the entire cooktop area prevents potential water ingress issues and allows full coverage.
For these reasons, a best practice sequence is:
- Install lower cabinets and countertops
- Put up backsplash tile
- Mount range hood
- Install upper cabinets
Prep Work Before Installing Backsplash
Now let’s look at some important steps to take care of before installing the backsplash in preparation for the range hood.
Select Backsplash Materials
Choose backsplash tiles or panels that are non-porous, high-heat resistant, and easy to clean. Ceramic, metal, glass, and stone tiles are popular options. Use materials that will withstand heat and grease exposure near the cooktop.
Map Out Design
Determine the backsplash layout based on range hood specifications and venting requirements. Measure to find the exact height and width of area that the hood and ducting will cover. The design may need to accommodate outlets or switches.
Prepare the Wall Surface
Make sure the wall has even, smooth drywall ready for tile application. Fill any holes or cracks and sand bumps for the straightest possible surface. Priming helps tiles adhere.
Find Studs
Locate and mark studs using a stud finder. The range hood will need to attach directly into the wall studs for maximum support. Mark their positions clearly for reference.
Install Insulation
For ducted range hoods, install sound dampening insulation between the studs where the ducting will go to muffle vent noise. Batt insulation or soundproof mats help reduce vibrations.
Thorough planning and prep before tiling is crucial to success!
How to Install Backsplash Around Range Hood Area
Once you have materials selected and the wall is prepped, follow these tips for flawlessly executing backsplash installation in the range hood zone:
Leave Hood Area Uncovered
Begin laying tiles in the cooktop area, but leave the precise sections that will be behind the hood free of backsplash. It’s easier to cut tiles to fit after the hood is in.
Use Caulk at Perimeters
After setting tiles above, below, and on the sides of the hood opening, seal edges with a thin caulk line for a seamless transition.
Cut Tiles for Clean Fit
Measure the exact dimensions of remaining space after hood installation. Carefully cut backsplash tiles to size with a wet saw for an ideal fit around the range hood.
Maintain Level Lines
As you install cut tiles around the hood vent, continually check that grout lines align perfectly horizontally and vertically with the surrounding backsplash. Step back periodically to ensure it looks cohesive.
Take Time with Precision Cuts
Rushing cuts around the hood opening often leads to sloppy edges. Take it slow to score and snap tiles neatly. Use edge grinding tools as needed for polished results.
Seal Edges
Apply caulk along all edges, corners, and seams where the freshly cut tiles meet the hood or wall. Neat caulk beads prevent moisture issues.
Careful tile cutting and attention to detail provides flawless integration with the range hood.
Preparing to Install Range Hood After Backsplash
Once your beautiful new backsplash is installed, take the following steps to get ready for range hood installation over top:
Review Manufacturer Instructions
Thoroughly read the installation guide that comes with your specific range hood to understand all preparation steps needed. Follow their directions closely.
Confirm Electrical Plan
Ensure proper wiring and outlet placement for hood ventilation fan and lighting. The electrical source should be readily accessible.
Inspect Ducting Path
For ducted range hoods, check that ducting path through ceiling and out the roof is clear. Make adjustments if necessary before installing hood.
Have Tools Ready
Gather necessary tools – drill, screwdrivers, measuring tape, level, utility knife, ladder, and safety equipment. Better to have everything within reach beforehand.
Clean Cooking Area
Use degreaser to thoroughly clean the cooktop zone where the range hood will mount. Remove all grease and residues for best adhesion.
Remove Cabinet Doors
Detach and remove upper cabinet doors as needed to allow easy access during hood installation. Reattach later once the hood is securely mounted.
Proper planning makes range hood installation over freshly tiled backsplash a breeze!
Step-By-Step Guide to Installing Range Hood
Once prep work is complete, follow these key steps to properly install your range hood:
Mark the Mounting Area
Measure and mark accurate locations for ducting, electrical supply, and mounting brackets centered based on your cooktop width.
Create Access Points
Cut openings in the backsplash tile for ductwork and wiring access points. Use a angle grinder with diamond blade for clean cuts.
Attach Mounting Bracket
Screw sturdy metal mounting brackets firmly into wall studs, anchoring them into the backsplash tile.
Prepare Electrical and Ductwork
Install any necessary electrical boxes or receptacles. Run ducting through the backsplash and ceiling following vent hood specs.
Lift Hood into Place
With helpers, lift hood up and insert mounting screw heads into brackets. Temporarily support some weight as you get into position.
Fasten Securely
Drill in lag screws through the back of hood into wall studs. Tighten all screws until range hood is completely fastened and supported.
Connect Ductwork
Attach ducting by sliding the hood vent into the opening and screwing flange connections tightly. Seal with aluminum duct tape.
Complete Electrical Connections
Plug vent hood into receptacle or connect wiring following local codes. Ensure fan and lights operate properly.
Caulk and Seal
Apply flexible caulk around perimeter of hood and at tile openings. Check for any air gaps and seal thoroughly.
Reinstall Cabinet Doors
With hood solidly installed, reattach upper cabinet doors that were removed earlier. Inspect that doors open and close properly.
Slow and steady wins the race for flawless range hood installation!
FAQs about Installing Backsplash and Range Hood
Some common questions that arise when tackling backsplash and range hood installation:
Should I mount the range hood directly to backsplash tile?
Yes, it is ideal to screw mounting brackets and lag bolts directly into backsplash tile to provide the strongest anchoring support for the weight of the hood.
What about moisture and leaks behind backsplash?
Sealing perimeter edges thoroughly with caulk prevents water ingress behind tiles near the hood. Avoid material like drywall that can absorb moisture.
Is it okay to install the microwave over the cooktop instead?
It is not recommended. Code requires a proper vent hood specifically designed for the cooktop area to handle grease, fumes, and heat.
How close should the range hood be to cooktop?
For optimal smoke and fume capture, recommended distance is 24″ to 36″ above cooktop. Required height depends on hood specs and local building codes.
Can I use a hammer drill in backsplash tiles to install the hood?
No, hammer drills will crack fragile backsplash materials. Use carbide drill bits and standard drills at low speeds for clean access holes.
Careful planning and strategic installation techniques allow backsplash and range hood to perfectly coexist. With some patience and know-how, you can create a flawless and functional cooktop area for your kitchen.
Conclusion
Installing backsplash tile before mounting the range hood is the recommended best practice for kitchen remodeling projects. Backsplashing first provides a clean finished wall surface to easily install over, allows completing tiles edges and details, ensures proper fit around the hood, and gives greater flexibility in hood placement.
Carefully planning backsplash design, preparing the installation site, leaving the hood area uncovered initially, precision cutting perimeter tiles, and methodically installing the vent hood over the tile results in a beautifully coordinated and integrated kitchen backsplash and range hood area.
While requiring some careful measurements, cuts, and patience, installing backsplash tile prior to the range hood can result in a seamless and stylish cooktop focal point. Just be sure to thoroughly review range hood instructions, seal edges to prevent moisture issues, securely anchor into backsplash and studs, and take the time to do it right.
With the right information and proper planning, you can install your dream backsplash and ideal vent hood to create a high-functioning and eye-catching kitchen design focal point.