Introduction
Whether you’re remodeling your kitchen or building a new one, installing a range hood and deciding what to do about the backsplash in that area is an important design consideration. The backsplash protects your wall from grease splatter and moisture and adds visual interest to your kitchen. But should the backsplash go behind the range hood or stop at the sides? What are the pros and cons of each approach?
Installing backsplash behind a range hood is a common practice in kitchen design for good reason – it creates a clean, seamless look. However, some homeowners opt to end the backsplash at the sides of the hood instead. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss the factors to consider when determining does backsplash go behind range hood or not in your own kitchen. We’ll provide tips for installation, material recommendations, and visual examples to inspire your design. With the information in this guide, you’ll be able to choose the right backsplash approach for your kitchen and range hood installation.
Factors To Consider For Backsplash Behind Range Hood
When deciding whether to install backsplash behind your range hood or end it at the sides, there are a few important factors to take into account:
Aesthetics
This is often the biggest consideration. Do you prefer the streamlined look of a backsplash that runs behind the hood to the edges of the counters? Or do you like the visual break created when the backsplash stops at the sides of the hood? Think about how it will look with your cabinetry, counters, and overall kitchen design.
Functionality
A backsplash behind the range hood provides an extra layer of protection from splatters and moisture. It may be easier to clean as well. But ending the backsplash at the sides does allow more access for installation and maintenance of the range hood.
Range Hood Type
The look and mechanics of your particular range hood may influence the decision. For example, a sleek chimney style hood that is mounted on the wall often looks best with a backsplash running behind it. But for an under-cabinet model, stopping the backsplash at the sides may be fine.
Budget
Tiling or applying backsplash material behind the range hood does cost more in materials and labor. If budget is a big concern, ending the backsplash at the sides helps reduces installation time and product needed.
DIY Installation
Installing backsplash behind the range hood takes more cutting and fitting of materials. It’s doable as a DIY project but requires precise measurements and tile cutting. Ending at the sides is generally simpler for DIYers.
Once you weigh factors like these, you can decide what works best for your kitchen. Now let’s look at how to tackle the installation.
Installing Backsplash Behind A Range Hood
If you decide to run backsplash behind your range hood, here are some tips for a successful installation:
Measure Carefully
- Take very precise measurements of the entire area behind the range hood before cutting any backsplash materials.
- Consider the range hood dimensions, placement on the wall, ductwork locations, and proximity to upper cabinets and countertops.
- Account for any sloped or uneven areas on the wall surface when measuring.
- Allow for a small 1/8″ gap between the backsplash and hood for expansion.
Cut Backsplash Materials
- Mark all measurements on backsplash tile or panels and cut very carefully for an accurate fit.
- Use a wet saw for most accurate cuts on tile. Make curved cuts for around ductwork.
- Cut cement board, Hardibacker, or other backsplash substrates to fit the space.
Install Backsplash First
- Install the backsplash substrate and then tile/panels before installing the range hood itself.
- Apply tile adhesive mortar for tile or silicone adhesive for backsplash panels.
- Take time to get the backsplash perfectly lined up and level.
Seal Edges
- Seal all edges and seams where the backsplash meets the range hood with clear silicone caulk.
- Use caulk that matches the backsplash color for the most invisible look.
- Carefully apply caulk and smooth for clean finish.
Check Functionality
- Make sure range hood still operates properly and vents air correctly after backsplash installation.
- Confirm all lights, buttons and filters are accessible.
- Adjust or trim backsplash if needed to allow hood to slide into place and function.
Backsplash Transition At Sides Of Range Hood
If you opt to end the backsplash at the sides of the range hood instead, here are some tips:
- Cut backsplash precisely to fit up to side edges or casing of hood.
- Use small tile edging trim, schluter strips, or metal edging to create a clean-looking seam.
- Match trim color to backsplash for a cohesive look. Satin nickel or chrome trim often complements tile.
- Caulk gap between backsplash edge and range hood with flexible silicone sealant.
- Make sure screws through the hood casing into the wall don’t interfere with backsplash.
- Consider floating the range hood away from wall by 1/4″ if backsplash is extra thick to allow overlap.
- Use caulk and trim for cleanest transition from backsplash to drywall near hood.
Material Considerations
The backsplash material you select can impact the decision on whether to run it behind the range hood or not:
Tile
- Ceramic, porcelain or natural stone tile commonly used for backsplash can also go behind a range hood.
- Use thin tile like 3×6 subway tile to easily fit behind hood casing.
- Match grout color to tile for seamless look.
Glass Tile
- Small glass mosaic tiles can also work but require more cutting and take more time to install.
- Glass tile behind a hood shows splashes and needs frequent cleaning.
-edges may be prone to cracking if not completely sealed.
Metal
- Metal backsplashes like stainless, copper or tin can integrate well with range hood.
- Metal panels can be cut to fit behind hood or sized to stop at sides.
- Matching up metal seams takes skill for smooth look.
Backsplash Panels
- Cement, beadboard or other backsplash panels can work behind range hoods.
- Panels need to be cut very accurately for a clean finished edge.
- Caulk and trim transition if ending panels at hood sides.
- Diagonal patterns or intricate styles may be tricky for DIY install behind hood.
Natural Stone
- Granite, marble or other natural stone slabs can be cut to fit behind range hood.
- Polished stone finish highlights seamless design.
- Natural stone is prone to staining and requires sealing where exposed near hood.
Design Examples: Backsplash Behind Range Hood
Here are some inspiring examples of kitchen backsplash continuing behind range hood designs:
Sleek Modern Kitchen
This contemporary kitchen uses wide horizontal tiles as a backsplash that run uninterrupted behind a modern stainless chimney hood. The streamlined look complements the minimalist cabinetry and gives the illusion of a wider space. The metallic gray and white tile pattern is easy to wipe clean and resists showing splatters.
Image from Smith Design
Rustic Farmhouse Kitchen
In this cozy farmhouse style kitchen, rectangular beige subway tiles provide a soft neutral backsplash. The tiles stretch behind a classic stainless range hood with exposed vents. The tongue and groove wood panels surrounding the hood add rustic contrast. The backsplash ties the space together beautifully.
Image from Wellborn Cabinet
Cottage Kitchen Backsplash
This cottage kitchen features a preppy blue and white patterned tile backsplash in a brick pattern. The whimsical tiles continue behind the short stainless range hood for a seamless look that fits the playful space. The finished edge next to the carved wood corbels and hanging pendant lights polishes off the design.
Image from Highland Cabinetry
Honed Stone Backsplash
These homeowners used large-scale honed marble tile as an impactful backsplash. The veined stone flows up behind the modern stainless range hood. The varying gray tones in the marble complement the custom wood hood cover and floating shelves flanking the range for a luxe designer look.
Image from Neiman Marcus Blog
Mixed Material Backsplash
This kitchen mixes materials for visual interest. A base of white subway tile is paired with marble mosaic insets. The marble hexagons flow behind the commercial style range hood, while the white tile stops on the sides. Trim conceals the edges for clean lines. The range tile forms a full focal point.
Image from Subway Ceramics
FAQs: Backsplash Installation With Range Hood
Should backsplash go around range hood?
This depends on your preference. Running backsplash behind the range hood creates a streamlined look. But ending the backsplash at the sides of the hood also works and is a bit simpler to install.
Can you put backsplash behind a range hood?
Yes, it is possible to install tile, metal, stone, or other backsplash materials behind most range hood models. Precise measurements and careful tile cutting around the hood are needed.
Do you need backsplash with a range hood?
Backsplash is not technically required around a range hood. But it helps protect the wall from grease, moisture and splatter. Most homeowners opt to install a backsplash with their range hood for easier cleaning and style.
How do you finish edges of backsplash around hood?
Use trim strips, edge molding or caulk to create a clean-looking seam between the backsplash edges and sides of the range hood. Match materials for a cohesive look. Take care to precisely cut backsplash panels or tile.
Should range hood overlap backsplash?
It is typically recommended to have the backsplash run up underneath the edge of the range hood by about 1/4 inch. This allows the hood to overlap slightly for a cleaner transition with no gaps.
How to transition from backsplash to drywall around range hood?
Use caulk to seal the gap between the backsplash material and drywall near the range hood. For a more finished look, install matching trim molding to cover uneven edges and create a straight transition line near the range hood.
Conclusion
Determining whether backsplash should stop at the sides of your range hood or continue behind it is an important kitchen design choice. Consider how the option you select will look, function, and impact your budget. Review the style of your range hood and preferences for a streamlined versus defined transition. Carefully measure and install whichever treatment you choose for the best results. Use the tips in this guide at each step of the process. With the information here, you can make the decision on does backsplash go behind range hood that fits your kitchen perfectly while being prepared for a smooth installation.
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