Range hoods are a staple feature in every indoor kitchen. A quality kitchen ventilation system removes smoke and grease to ensure clean and healthy air for both the cook and their guests. For too long, range hoods have been little more than unassuming appliances that are sold along with cooktops and ovens. However, a good-looking range hood can improve your air quality and also add class and character to your home. Copper range hoods, in particular, are becoming increasingly popular. Here are six reasons why.
1. Copper range hoods are beautiful
Copper is a unique material that becomes more interesting and beautiful as it ages. A copper range hood can elevate the aesthetic of your kitchen and be a stylish focal point for visitors. Over time, the surface of your copper hood will react with oxygen and moisture to create an effect known as a patina. A patina is a thin layer that coats copper, creating a one-of-a-kind color evolution that tells the story of your kitchen. Patinas can be green, red, deep brown, and even purple or blue. This subtle natural aging of copper cannot be replicated by any other material.
Despite the appeal of a patina, some homeowners prefer their range hoods to retain their original coloration forever. This can be done by applying a protective coating or copper wax to your hood.
2. Copper range hoods can be customized
Copper range hoods come in a wide range of colors and finishes that can be designed to match your kitchen aesthetic. You can choose a metallic bronze hood with a weathered finish for an industrial feel or a clean granite black hood for the modern minimalist look. Copper hoods can be crafted to be mounted on a wall or an island. There are a myriad of shapes from boxy to elegant to elaborate. Many aspects of your hood can be customized such as the texture, crown profile, and strap texture, down to the style and finish of the rivets. You can also choose to add on a pot rail.
3. Copper range hoods last a lifetime
Copper is a strong and durable metal. Although it is very malleable in the production stage, the final products resist stains, scratches, and dents. Copper has also been known to ‘repair’ itself. If your copper surface sustains a small scratch, the scratched area will slowly deepen in color to eventually match its surroundings. Should your hood become seriously damaged for some unforeseen reason, you will be happy to know that it can typically be refinished and restored to look as good as new.
4. Copper range hoods are good for your health
Copper is an amazing material that has natural antimicrobial properties. According to researchers, copper’s antimicrobial properties are so potent that scientists are finding ways to use copper to treat diseases. While traditional oven hoods sport small awnings, copper hoods are purpose-built to create a funnel that draws smoke away from your kitchen, allowing your family to enjoy clean air free of odors and harmful particles. Copper hoods are also designed to be smooth, with no hard-to-clean corners for bacteria to fester in. Any bacteria that do land on your copper range hood will perish within hours.
5. Copper range hoods are easy to maintain
There is no need for elbow grease or harsh chemicals when it comes to keeping your range hood spic and span. Because copper range hoods are non-porous, they do not stain easily and are very easy to clean. If your range hood has become oily or dusty, simply wipe it down with a soft cloth dampened with warm water or a mild soap, then dry thoroughly.
6. Copper range hoods add value
Copper range hoods are an excellent investment. Although they can be slightly more expensive, copper hoods can add much more value to your kitchen and home than cold stainless steel or common aluminum fittings. You can count on the classic good looks of copper to never go out of style. Furthermore, copper is so durable and easy to clean that you will probably never need to replace or repair it throughout its lifetime.
Ready to design your copper range hood?
If you want to accentuate your kitchen with a copper range hood, find a quality copper crafter. Many copper hood suppliers are resellers. This means that they may be limited in range and knowledge. A quality copper product should ideally be made of pure copper. However, many inferior products are made from copper mixed with other alloys or even harmful metals such as lead. Choose a company that crafts the copper hoods in-house so that they can guarantee the purity of their material.
Craftsmanship is similarly important. Evaluate the quality and skill of their copper artisans by looking at real examples of their work and reading reviews of their products. A reputable copper crafting company should be able to help you customize a range hood that suits your specific needs instead of asking you to choose from pre-fabricated models. With the assistance of professional coppersmiths, you can design and install a copper range hood in your kitchen that will delight you and your visitors for years to come.