Slide-in vs traditional range

[gbynum]

My home has a "slide-in" range. As part of a kitchen "refreshing", we plan to replace the range and dishwasher.

Several manufacturers make a double oven range, but not in the slide-in style. We would like a double oven.

My investigation makes it look like the significant difference is the lack of a backsplash on the slide-in, and the presence of "trim strips" (about 1/4") over the cabinets. Widths and heights are the same. Clearance for the electrical connection is substantially the same.

The slide-in is much more expensive; is it strictly cosmetic? The traditional backsplash will cover some of the decorative tile which cover the rear wall and act as the backsplash.

[Electrician Wannabe]

Typically a slide in range will not have finished side panels, but for the most part the dimensions of both a slide-in range and free-standing range are the same, with one exception. The exception of course is the additional height of the backsplash part of a free-standing range where the control knobs are.

With regard to differences, I prefer the slide-in models for a few reasons. One, I prefer having the control knobs up front and dislike having to reach/lean over the burners on a free-standing range to turn knobs. Two, if you are going to do a nice tile backspash in your kitchen the free-standing models interfere with the look. Finally, I think slide-in models look more high end.

Hope that helps.

[scuba_dave]

With a 2 year old that likes to play with knobs, I very much prefer the controls on the back of the stove out of reach

[Electrician Wannabe]

Good point.