how to install a timber rangehood

While traditionally seen as purely functional, a rangehood can now be a stunning focal point, and one that you can make yourself. Imagine cooking in a kitchen that not only looks beautiful, but also features a bespoke timber rangehood that you personally crafted.

If you're looking to add warmth, texture, and character to your kitchen, nothing achieves this quite like a custom timber rangehood. With a wide selection of our woodgrain finishes to choose from, you can tailor this feature to complement almost any kitchen style. And here's the best part – if you’ve made it this far into this article, then you're more than capable of building it.

Let’s walk through the steps to bring your custom timber rangehood to life.

step 1: plan your space

Start by factoring your custom rangehood into your overall kitchen design. This ensures it fits seamlessly with your cabinetry and appliances. The width of your rangehood should mirror the width of your cooktop – the most common widths of a rangehood are 600mm, 900mm, and 1200mm.

step 2: select your rangehood and cabinet

Once you know your rangehood size, select a matching cabinet. Our customisable deep overhead cabinets make it easy to create the perfect fit. In this instance, they customised our cabinet to 900mm, to suit their 900mm slide out rangehood from Kleenmaid.

step 3: measure and order your timber multi-purpose panel

Next, order our multi-purpose timber panel to encase the cabinet and rangehood. To determine the width of panel required, measure the height of the cabinet (in this case 360mm), and add the height of your rangehood appliance. Add an extra 10mm for a slight overhang – this helps create a clean, professional finish. To determine the length of panel required, add the measurement the 3 sides of the cabinet that will be covered by the panel together, and add an extra 100-300mm for wastage. You can order your multipurpose panel through the Special Orders Desk at your local Bunnings or purchase one straight off the shelf. 

step 4: assemble and install the cabinet and rangehood

Once you’ve received your cabinet, rangehood, and panel, you’re ready to start building. Assemble the cabinet using the instructions provided. Mount the rangehood to the underside of the cabinet. Then, install the assembled unit on the wall. Be sure to install this level and follow safety clearances:

Gas cooktops: Mount at least 650mm above the burners

Electric, induction, or ceramic cooktops: Minimum of 600mm above the burners

step 5: attach the side panels

Now it’s time to enclose the cabinet. Measure the distance from the wall to the front edge of the cabinet at both the top and bottom (walls can be uneven). Measure the vertical height from the top of the cabinet to the bottom of the rangehood, again adding 10mm for overhang. Mark and cut your timber panel using these measurements. Attach the panel to the side of the cabinet, screwing from the inside to keep fixings hidden. Repeat for the opposite side.

step 6: add the front panel

Finally, measure the width from one side panel to the other, including the thickness of the panels you’ve already installed. Be sure to measure and cut the height of this panel, the same as the side pieces in step 5, ensuring joins line up. Cut your front panel to size. Attach it securely to the cabinet to complete the look.

YOU MADE IT!

You’ve just built a custom timber rangehood – and transformed your kitchen in the process. With the right plan and a little patience, you’ve created a warm, elegant centrepiece for your home.

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