“Install the cabinets and you’re done” is a myth every seasoned contractor has heard. In reality, installing kitchen exhaust is the critical step that protects indoor air quality, preserves finishes, and meets local codes. CountBricks brings residential builders a data-driven path to flawless ventilation, merging AI material pricing with voice-captured site notes to keep projects on schedule and on budget.
• Removes moisture and grease, preventing mold and premature paint failure
• Lowers indoor pollutants such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide
• Balances make-up air, safeguarding HVAC performance and homeowner comfort
1. Identify cooking equipment BTU ratings to size the fan correctly
2. Map the shortest, straightest duct route to an exterior wall or roof
3. Verify compliance with local CFM and noise regulations in CountBricks’ code library
4. Generate an AI-backed estimate at CountBricks.com/services to lock materials and labor costs in real time
Rigid vs. flexible duct —CountBricks procurement data shows rigid 26-gauge ducting adds just 8 % to material cost but improves airflow up to 15 %. For most residential builds, rigid duct is the smarter long-term value.
Hood styles —From under-cabinet units to dramatic chimney hoods, CountBricks’ 3D takeoff engine calculates square footage impacts and cabinet alterations instantly.
Fan ratings —Aim for 1 CFM per 100 BTU of cooktop output. Our AI suggestions automatically round up to the nearest stock fan model to avoid custom lead times.
1. Secure blocking: Anchor 2×4 backing between studs where the hood will hang.
2. Mark and cut duct path: Use a laser level and CountBricks mobile voice notes to document measurements.
3. Install exterior vent cap: Weather-seal with high-temp silicone and stainless screws.
4. Run ductwork: Keep turns under 45°; every additional elbow reduces efficiency by roughly 7 %.
5. Mount hood and fan: Follow manufacturer torque specs logged in your CountBricks project file.
6. Connect wiring: CountBricks auto-populates NEC-compliant wire gauges in your estimate.
7. Test airflow: Measure CFM at the hood; adjust make-up air damper if negative pressure exceeds 5 Pa.
• Undersized fans: Real-time BTU-to-CFM calculator flags mismatches before purchase orders are issued
• Excessive duct length: Blueprint takeoffs highlight runs over 25 feet so designers can reroute early
• Unplanned soffit impacts: 3D model overlays reveal clashes with ceiling joists, saving costly framing changes
• Hood finish (stainless, powder coat, custom wood wrap)
• Duct diameter changes requiring reducers
• Roof penetration vs. wall termination flashing kits
• Local permit fees and post-installation inspections
CountBricks compiles these variables in a single dashboard, updating totals as your field team speaks progress into the mobile app.
Homeowners often ask if kitchen exhaust can be a weekend project. While swapping a plug-in recirculating hood is straightforward, ducted systems demand structural knowledge, fire-safe clearances, and electrical skills. CountBricks recommends licensed pros for any new duct run or 240-volt connection. Our contractor network, visible at CountBricks.com/portfolio, showcases compliant installs that pass inspection the first time.
ASHRAE 62.2 and IRC M1503 dictate minimum airflow and termination guidelines. CountBricks embeds these standards in estimating templates so residential builders don’t waste time cross-referencing code books. When jurisdictions adopt stricter energy codes, the platform alerts you to necessary make-up air kits or ECM motors.
• AI voice capture converts jobsite conversations into line-item updates
• Dynamic pricing pulls current supplier costs every 15 minutes
• Integrated invoicing turns approved estimates into branded documents instantly
• Cloud storage retains manuals, photos, and inspection reports for warranty tracking
Your superintendent walks the kitchen, dictating “42-inch wall hood, 600 CFM, rigid 6-inch duct, through-roof exit.” CountBricks transcribes, prices, and schedules the task before the walk-through ends. Homeowners receive a polished quote that evening, complete with scope notes and payment milestones.
Installing kitchen exhaust is more than cutting a hole in the wall—it’s a balance of airflow science, aesthetic choice, and regulatory compliance. CountBricks equips residential construction teams with the AI tools to achieve perfect balance on every build. Ready to streamline your next project? Visit CountBricks.com/consultation and let’s talk ventilation.
When the Hawthorne family gutted their 1980s kitchen, the original plan called for a decorative hood with a recirculating fan. During a virtual consultation, CountBricks identified a 36,000 BTU gas range on the spec sheet—far too powerful for a filter-only setup.
1. Our estimator recommended a 600 CFM ducted unit, rigid 6-inch duct, and a roof cap rated for high wind zones.
2. The voice conversation automatically generated a revised materials list and labor timeline, adding just 20 seconds to the call.
3. Homeowners signed the updated quote the same evening through the CountBricks client portal.
• The framing crew received a push notification with blocking dimensions before arriving on site
• An unexpected double top plate was uncovered; the lead carpenter reported it via voice, and CountBricks recalculated duct length and elbows instantly
• Final airflow test recorded 612 CFM, exceeding code by 12 CFM and passing inspection on the first visit
• Project timeline held at 14 days despite scope change
• Material overage reduced to less than 1 %, saving $210
• Homeowner satisfaction score: 9.8/10
• Early AI analysis prevents under-ventilated kitchens
• Real-time cost data lets you upgrade components without budget shock
• Voice-to-estimate workflows free superintendents from desk work, keeping them in the field where value is created
Visit CountBricks.com/services to see how our platform can replicate these results across your portfolio.
