Custom Range Hoods vs. Stock Models: What’s the Difference?

A good range hood is essential in both residential and commercial settings, but when you go to buy one, you’re going to find two main options. These are stock models and custom range hoods.

While the two essentially operate the same and fill the same role, there are major differences that you have to consider to ensure that you get a range hood that meets your needs.

Today, we’re going to break down a few important differences between custom range hoods and stock models - we’ll compare the features and weigh the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision you won’t regret.

What is a Stock Model Range Hood?

A stock model range hood is what you buy premade out of a company’s inventory. Essentially, this is a traditional purchase. You find a supplier you like, you browse what they have to offer, and you make your purchase. What you see is what you get.

What are Custom Range Hoods?

A custom range hood is one that’s made to spec, essentially. The company you order from will have a selection of features and designs for you to choose from, and you can more or less build your own with very few limitations as long as the company you’re getting it from has the capability to manufacture it.

The Pros and Cons of Stock Model Range Hoods

Stock models get a bad reputation with any product in comparison to custom equivalents, but the truth is, there are pros to help balance out the drawbacks. So, it’s not fair to just write them off entirely.

For example, because it’s already made and in a company’s inventory, you can usually get a stock model faster than you would a custom option. Even if it’s not in stock, because it’s mass produced, it’ll be restocked shortly, and you can get it within a reasonable amount of time.

Another benefit is that it’s usually a little cheaper than a custom model that has the same features. This is, again, because of the mass production aspect. The company doesn’t have to setup the machinery specifically to make your range hood. 

It’s set up for a full production run with thousands of units, and that time and energy saved is converted into some small savings for the consumer. However, custom range hoods aren’t necessarily always more expensive. We’ll talk about that in the next section.

Unfortunately, there are major drawbacks to stock models.

Primarily, you have to accept what is available. There might not be an option that perfectly meets your needs, or even if you find one with the exact specs and features that you want, it might not look the way you want it to. And that right there is one of the key differences between custom range hoods and stock models - you’ll have a lot more flexibility with a custom design. When you buy stock models, you have to be willing to make some sacrifices and understand your priorities.

Another issue can be quality control. There are plenty of great manufacturers out there who put out good products consistently, but any time you’re mass producing something, lemons are bound to pass quality control measures, and you might end up having to call the company back shortly after it’s installed due to issues.

Pros and Cons of Custom Range Hoods

Custom range hoods provide a lot of benefits that you simply can’t get with a stock model.

Most of this boils down to you being able to fully customize the finished product to meet your needs. You can choose the size, ventilation system, all the little features that make your cooking experience better, and more without any real limitations. You get the exact range hood you need. Not whatever the manufacturer cooked up and put in stock.

Another important difference between custom range hoods and stock models is the quality of craftsmanship. As long as you’re working with a good company, you can trust that the product you get is going to be the finest quality. 

When a company specifically makes your range hood for you, they’re paying a lot more attention to the details, and there is a lot less room for error. That doesn’t mean that a rare accident doesn’t happen at all, but it’s just that. A rare accident that the vast majority of customers don’t have to worry about. 

Another pro is that, when you order a custom model, the manufacturer is more likely to take pride in their work and correct anything that does go wrong. After all, they’re already going the extra mile to ensure a customer is getting exactly what they want. They’re going to be willing to stand by their craftsmanship.

That said, any fair comparison of custom range hoods and stock models should also cover a few notable drawbacks of the former.

When you choose a custom range hood, you are investing in something made just for you, crafted with high-quality materials and built to fit your exact needs. While a stock model is mass-produced to be as inexpensive as possible, a custom hood gives you complete control over the design, functionality, and aesthetics. Since you are making the decisions, you also have the flexibility to prioritize what matters most, ensuring you get the best value for your investment.

Because each custom range hood is made to order, it does take a little time to ensure everything is just right. Unlike stock models that are ready to go, a custom piece is built with care and precision to meet your exact specifications. The result is a one-of-a-kind addition to your kitchen that is well worth the wait.

Also read: How to Choose the Perfect Custom Range Hood for Your Kitchen

Which One is Right for You?

Most of the time, a custom range hood is going to be the best option. In a commercial setting like a restaurant, we always recommend it. You’re going to be relying on your range hood more often than not, and you need the best to keep your restaurant moving smoothly.

Even homeowners can appreciate the reliability and personalization of a custom range hood.

There really isn’t much reason to settle for a stock range hood, because you can even lower your custom hood’s price by making sacrifices in terms of features, and you still get unmatched reliability. Stock models are mostly cost-saving measures and convenient since they’re readily available, but they lack all the personalization options.

The Choice is Simple

So there you have it! We hope today’s blog post has helped clear up any questions and uncertainties you had about the custom range hoods vs. stock models debate.

Stock range hoods get the job done if you’re okay with working around what’s available. But if you want something that actually fits your kitchen, functions exactly how you need it to, and looks the way you want, a custom range hood is the only way to go. No compromises, no settling.

And when it comes to getting a custom range hood built right, Integrated Metal Designs makes it easy. Precision craftsmanship, top-tier materials, and a design tailored to your space.

Your kitchen should work for you, not the other way around. Contact us today and let us help you bring your vision to life!