Difference Between Slide-In & Freestanding Range

Slide-in vs. Freestanding

• A slide-in range is designed with contoured sides and a slightly overhanging cooktop. These design features, as well as the alignment groove on either side, make it so the range is installed between two sets of cabinets. The cooking surface of this range style rests on top of the cabinets on either side and must be supported by the cabinets. Incorporating a slide-in range works to create a more customized look in the kitchen. Freestanding models, as the name suggests, require no support from cabinets or countertops. Both types come in gas and electric power options.

Measurements

• Both slide-in and freestanding models come in similar sizes, though freestanding ranges are somewhat larger than slide-in varieties. You can find both styles in small or standard size, with some manufacturers producing a third, larger size. Apartments and small homes are ideal spaces for a small stove, typically with an exterior width of 20 to 24 inches. Standard-sized ranges generally measure 30 or 32 inches and have more options than the smaller varieties. These models often include warming drawers, more cooking space and larger viewing windows. Larger stoves usually offer even more luxury features, and may be as wide as 40 inches, with some extra-large models measuring 48 inches wide. These large styles include five or six burners, compared with two or four on smaller styles, as well as more cubic feet of oven space.

Installation

• Installation is similar for slide-in and freestanding models, but with a few distinct differences. Slide-ins must be installed between cabinets, while this is an optional position for freestanding models. It is possible to place freestanding ranges flush with walls and countertops; however, this may leave gaps, which you can either leave open or fill with shims or customized fillers. For slide-in models, adjustments to the countertop generally must be made. Flat countertops with an opening width of 30 inches are ideal and often don’t require any changes. Countertops with formed front edges must be shaved flat where the slide-in stove will lie. This countertop preparation isn’t required with freestanding styles.

Other Considerations

• Because of its design, a freestanding stove is a better option when the countertops aren’t being replaced, since this style will sit between them, though there will be a gap along the back of the range. you can easily address this gap with the addition of a custom strip to fill it in. A slide-in range will sit on top of the countertop, leaving no space between the cooktop and counter, and thus eliminating the risk of food or liquid falling between the gaps. A slide-in range usually requires no fillers or other additions.