Filling the Gap Between Stove and Countertop in 5 Simple Steps
If you have a freestanding stove, chances are there's a gap between it and the countertop. This can be an eyesore that allows crumbs, spills, and even pests to sneak into your kitchen. Filling in the gap with caulk is an easy solution to keep your space clean and contained.
Sealing the crevice between stove and counter makes your kitchen more sanitary and aesthetically pleasing. Here are 5 simple steps to tackle this useful project.
Step 1: Clean the Gap Thoroughly
Before applying any caulk or filler, thoroughly clean the gap between stove and counter. Use a degreaser to remove any baked-on grease or grime. Allow the degreaser to sit for 5-10 minutes before wiping to loosen debris. Use a small brush or toothbrush to dislodge any food particles in hard to reach spots.
Make sure to get into any corners where gunk may accumulate. A small hand-held vacuum is useful for sucking up all loose debris. The goal is to get the area as clean and grease-free as possible so the caulk can adhere properly.
Tips for Effective Cleaning
- Allow degreaser to sit for 5-10 minutes before wiping
- Use toothbrush or other small brush to dislodge particles
- Check for hidden corners that may collect grime
Step 2: Prepare the Gap
For large gaps, consider using backer rod before applying caulk. Backer rod is a flexible foam material that can be inserted into gaps bigger than 1/4 inch. This helps the caulk last longer and avoid sagging. Push the backer rod into the gap, leaving about 1/2 inch space.
For smaller gaps, caulk alone is usually fine. Be sure to use 100% silicone caulk, which is flexible, waterproof, and can withstand heat. For gas or electric stoves, a high heat-resistant caulk is recommended.
Choosing the Right Caulk
- 100% silicone caulk recommended
- Flexible, waterproof, withstands heat
- Heat-resistant caulk for gas/electric stoves
Step 3: Apply the Caulk
Load the caulk into a caulking gun, then cut the tip at a 45 degree angle to control flow. Holding at a 45 degree angle, apply steady pressure as you run a continuous bead of caulk along the gap. Use a plastic caulking tool or wet finger to smooth it out and remove any excess.
Make sure the caulk makes full contact with the stove and counter surfaces. For best results, apply in one smooth, continuous stream rather than short bursts.
Tips for Smooth Application
- Apply in one continuous stream for best look
- Wet finger to smooth out caulk for a seamless finish
- Apply in sections for large gaps
- Caulk in reverse direction for second coat
Step 4: Allow Time to Cure
Allow 24-48 hours for the caulk to fully cure before getting the area wet or putting weight on the stove. Heat and humidity can affect cure time, so check the product instructions. For best results, seal the gap on a day when you won't need to use the stove.
Turning on the stove vent fan helps dissipate fumes as the caulk cures. Once cured, the caulk provides a flexible, waterproof seal between the stove and counter.
Ensuring Proper Curing
- Check caulk package for listed cure time
- Seal gap on day when not using stove
- Turn on stove fan to help with fumes
Step 5: Enjoy Your Sealed Gap!
Once cured, run your finger along the gap to ensure you have a complete seal. Now you can enjoy apest-free, debris-free kitchen free of drips and smells sneaking into that crevice!
As with any sealant, the caulk will need to be reapplied every year or two, whenever wear is noticed. Take care not to puncture it with sharp objects. Filling the stove-counter gap makes an excellent annual maintenance task.
Maintaining the Fill
- Take care not to puncture caulk with sharp objects
- Reapply if any cracks, shrinking, or gaps appear
- Make it part of annual appliance maintenance
Sealing the gap between your stove and countertop really pays off in a cleaner, more contained kitchen. With just 5 simple steps, you can tackle this useful project in an afternoon. Just be sure to thoroughly clean the gap first, choose proper caulk, apply smoothly, and allow full curing time.
Filling in that unsightly crevice prevents grimy build up and keeps pests and spills contained. Your kitchen will be more sanitary, organized, and aesthetically pleasing.