Custom Range Hood Finishes: Matte vs. Glossy

You have decided to upgrade your kitchen with a range hood from ModernCopper. You have carefully selected the model and determined the ideal height, width, and depth. The only thing left now is to choose the finish. 

ModernCopper range hoods are available in every color. We have a black range hood line, blue range hoods, and every other color imaginable. One of the things that makes our metal fabrication company unique is that you can customize the finish to match your kitchen décor. In addition to the specific hue of your range hood, you can control the shine.

Some customers prefer a surface reflecting less light, while others want something a bit shinier. Homeowners sometimes contemplate how to get their range hood to match the surrounding elements, such as cabinetry, countertops, and backsplashes. A custom range hood can be finished to complement certain surfaces or create contrast.

Different Finishes for Custom Range Hoods

There are three different types of finish: glossy, semi-glossy, and matte. This article will cover the basics of glossy and matte finishes only so that you can compare the two that contrast most. We hope this article will help you make a more informed decision about your custom range hood’s finish.

Matte finishes have gained popularity in range hood design because they enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of a modern kitchen. A matte finish is characterized by its non-reflective surface. It tends not to have any shine or glossiness.

One of the matte finish's notable features is its light-absorbing nature. With less light reflected, the finish is muted and soft, which can be seen as adding to the range hood's overall charm. This doesn’t mean that the surface has to be boring. Our matte range hoods can be smooth and velvety, or the surface can be chalky or heavily textured. Some of our more textured surfaces are preferred because they help conceal imperfections, fingerprints, smudges, and scratches. However, when a textured surface is preferred, it is preferred for aesthetic reasons.

The Glossy Range Hood Finish

Glossy finishes are known for their shiny and reflective appearance. Their surfaces reflect light back, creating a wet or sometimes mirror-like effect. This quality gives glossy range hood finishes a sleek, polished look that can make a strong statement in any kitchen design.

One of the main advantages of glossy finishes is their ability to create a sense of depth and luminosity. The reflective nature of these finishes allows the range hood to stand out as a focal point, adding visual interest to the kitchen. A notably smooth surface that is easy to clean and maintain is also a big plus, as it reduces the cost and effort involved with maintaining their appearance.

However, there are drawbacks to a glossy finish. Sometimes, they are more susceptible to fingerprints, smudges, and scratches. They also reveal flaws in a way that a matte finish does not. The shiny finish surface tends to highlight every mark, requiring regular cleaning to keep it looking nice. But despite this, glossy finishes offer design versatility and the opportunity to personalize your kitchen design, as they come in various materials and color options. Whether you prefer a classic glossy black or want to explore vibrant color choices, a glossy range hood finish can enhance the style and aesthetic of your kitchen.

How to Choose Between Glossy and Matte

Choosing the right finish for your range hood is an important decision that can significantly impact your kitchen's overall style and design. When comparing matte and glossy finishes, there are a few key design considerations to keep in mind:

• Assess Your Kitchen Design. When selecting a finish for your range hood, it's essential to assess your kitchen's overall style and design to ensure a cohesive and visually pleasing aesthetic. Your custom range hood should harmonize with your kitchen's existing style and theme. Whether your kitchen has a traditional, modern, farmhouse, or eclectic style, the range hood's finish can significantly enhance or detract from the overall design. Matte finishes generally have a softer and more subtle appearance. They can blend well with various materials, such as wood, stone, or brick. Glossy finishes have a reflective surface that adds brightness and polish to the space. They can make a bold statement and become a focal point in a contemporary or minimalist kitchen. 
• Boldness vs. Elegance. Glossy finishes, with their sleek and reflective surfaces, create a bold and glamorous aesthetic. Their high sheen catches and reflects light, instantly drawing attention. If you want your range hood to be a standout feature and make a striking impact in your kitchen, a glossy finish can achieve that effect. It adds a touch of modernity and sophistication, elevating the overall design. In contrast, matte finishes offer a more subdued and understated elegance. 
• Coordination with Countertops and Cabinetry. The finish of your range hood should complement the material and color of your countertops. Matte appliances are more versatile and adaptable, as they blend well with various countertop and cabinet materials. Glossy finishes can create a striking contrast against more subdued countertop materials. If your countertops and cabinetry have a smooth and solid surface, such as quartz or solid surface materials, a glossy finish on the range hood can add a touch of elegance and sophistication. 
• Range Hoods and Kitchen Lighting. The finish on your range hood significantly influences light reflection and dispersion, affecting your kitchen's ambiance. Glossy finishes reflect light, enhancing brightness and creating a vibrant feel, which is ideal for kitchens lacking natural light or those wanting to amplify existing light with strategic lighting fixtures like recessed or pendant lights. These finishes distribute light evenly, providing uniform illumination. In contrast, matte finishes offer a non-reflective surface that absorbs light, reducing glare and reflections, and are suitable for kitchens with plenty of natural sunlight. They create a softer, more subdued atmosphere, complemented by ambient lighting for a cozy feel. 

Cleaning and Maintenance

When selecting between matte and glossy finishes for range hood surfaces, there are several factors to consider regarding ease of cleaning and maintenance. These include:

• Cleaning Ease. Matte finishes are more forgiving when hiding minor streaks and water spots. They don't reflect as much light, making imperfections less noticeable. Cleaning matte surfaces generally involves using mild, soapy water or non-abrasive cleaners. Gentle wiping with a soft cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and stains. Glossy finishes, on the other hand, have a reflective surface that can highlight fingerprints, smudges, and water spots. They require more frequent cleaning to maintain their polished appearance. For cleaning glossy surfaces, mild, soapy water or non-abrasive cleaners can be used, followed by thorough drying with a soft cloth to prevent streaks.
• Durability and Longevity. Matte finishes generally have a more textured surface that can help camouflage minor scratches or wear over time. This makes them more resistant to visible signs of aging, making them suitable for areas with heavy use or homes with children or pets. However, matte surfaces may require additional care to prevent deep stains from setting in, as they can be more porous than glossy surfaces. Glossy finishes, with their smooth and reflective surfaces, are more resistant to staining and easier to clean. They tend to have a harder, more durable coating that can withstand regular use and cleaning. However, glossy finishes are more prone to visible scratches and can lose their luster over time due to wear and tear.
• Grease and Stain Resistance. Range hoods are particularly prone to collecting grease, especially in kitchens where frying or heavy cooking occurs. Matte kitchen cabinetry is generally more forgiving when concealing grease stains and splatters. The textured surface can help disperse the grease's visibility, making it less noticeable. However, it's essential to clean and remove grease promptly to prevent it from penetrating the surface of the matte kitchen cabinets and range hood and becoming more challenging to remove. Gloss finishes have a smoother surface, making wiping off grease and stains easier. The reflective nature of the surface can make grease and stains more apparent, but the slick surface is less likely to absorb them. Regular cleaning with appropriate degreasers or non-abrasive cleaners is necessary to maintain the glossy appearance and prevent buildup.
• Maintenance Frequency. Matte finishes on range hoods generally require less frequent cleaning than glossy finishes. The textured surface of matte finishes helps to hide minor marks and smudges, reducing the need for immediate cleaning after each use. Regular cleaning with mild soapy water or non-abrasive cleaners is usually sufficient to keep the matte finish looking clean and well-maintained. Glossy finishes, on the other hand, may require more frequent cleaning due to their reflective surface that highlights fingerprints, smudges, and grease. Regular cleaning with appropriate cleaners and wiping with a soft cloth are necessary to maintain the glossy appearance.
• Cleaning Products and Techniques. Maintaining a custom range hood is a breeze. For matte finishes, it is generally recommended to use mild soapy water or non-abrasive cleaners. Abrasive cleaners or scrub brushes can damage the textured surface or create visible scratches. It's important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could degrade or discolor the matte finish. Glossy finishes are typically more resistant to stains and marks but require careful consideration when selecting cleaning products. Non-abrasive cleaners formulated explicitly for glossy surfaces are ideal for maintaining their shine without causing any damage. It's important to avoid abrasive scrubbers or harsh chemicals that can scratch or dull the glossy finish. Visit our general guide for maintaining your custom range hood. 

Value and Timelessness

One of the critical factors to consider when choosing a range hood finish is its long-term appeal. Matte surfaces and finishes, with their subdued and understated look, often have a timeless quality that can blend well with various kitchen styles. They exude a sense of sophistication and elegance that can withstand time. On the other hand, glossy cabinets and range hood finishes, with their reflective and shiny surface, can create a more contemporary and modern aesthetic that adds a sense of drama and luxury to the kitchen.

The choice of range hood finish can also impact your kitchen's resale value and marketability. A well-designed and cohesive kitchen with a range hood finish that aligns with current design trends can enhance the space's overall appeal, making it more attractive to potential buyers. Additionally, a timeless finish, created with matte finish cabinets, can appeal to a broader range of buyers and increase the marketability of your home.

Both finishes have unique qualities and can impact your kitchen's resale value and marketability. By selecting a finish that balances personal preference and flows seamlessly with other kitchen cabinetry, you can create a kitchen that is aesthetically pleasing but also enduring and marketable in the future.

Conclusion

The finish of your range hood can significantly impact your kitchen's overall look and feel. Whether you opt for a matte finish for its understated elegance or a high gloss finish for its shine and glamour, understanding the characteristics and considerations of each option is crucial. By carefully considering your kitchen's style, lighting conditions, and maintenance requirements, you can select the perfect range hood finish that adds sophistication or shine to your kitchen. You can explore and order free color sample sets here and pick a finish that matches your unique taste.