How to Fix the Gap Between a Stove and Countertop | improved house (2023)

When cooking, crumbs and ingredients can fall into the gaps between the stove and the counter. Instead of always moving your range away from the wall to clean underneath, you can quickly fill those gaps. But what can you use to fill those gaps?

To close a gap between the stove and the countertop, you can use silicone, plastic tubing, or a pre-made gap cover. Silicone is the easiest and most practical material to use, but stainless steel and metal are also great options. You can buy a T-shaped plastic roller to perfectly measure the cut.

In this article, we explain why you should take the time to fill those gaps. We also provide basic instructions for each option; This process takes less than five minutes. So, what are you waiting for? Let's go!

Why you should close the gap

The gap between the stove and the counter is often unnoticed, that is, until you drop food and can't get it out. The opening is so small; You can not rub the sides of both surfaces. Leaving spoiled food will eventually attract unpleasant presences, such as:

• rodents
• pests
• insects
• Schimmel

Covering the gap prevents food from falling between the counter and the stove. You no longer have to take the oven out to clean it (assuming you do). It's convenient for you and cheap to make, so why not? You don't have to spend money for this.Repair frayed areasfor food damage.

Use a pre-made space cover

Gap covers are long, T-shaped pieces of plastic or silicone commonly found at hardware and online retailers. The lower part of the "T" fits into the space between the stove and the counter. The "T" covers the space between your kitchen and the adjacent countertop.

Gap covers are available in a variety of materials, including plastic and stainless steel, and there are many different colors to choose from. If there is a difference in height between your hob and the counter, use a silicone material as it is more flexible and better adapts to the shape..

Instructions for placing the cover

1. Place the cover in the opening.You can place the lower arm on top of the upper arm or slide it in front. The top row of the T-shape should form a tight seal preventing food or liquid from falling into the gap.
2. Stay in Lane.If you notice that the cover is visibly dirty, remove it and hand wash it in a sink with detergent. Make sure the cap is completely dry before putting it back on. If it's not completely dry, food particles and crumbs will stick to it. Also, mold can grow over time, which would eventually defeat the purpose of the mulch.

If the top of the lid doesn't fit snugly, the strap on the bottom prevents anything from falling into the gap. If leftovers get in, wipe them up with a cloth.

Fill the hole with plastic tubes.

Use a ruler or tape measure to measure the exact width of the gap to select the correct pipe size. When filling in the gaps on both sides of the oven, be sure to measure both sides as there is no guarantee that they will be the same size.

Purchase a clear PVC pipe that is 1/4 inch wider than the opening. The clear plastic tube forms a virtually invisible barrier between the counters and the oven. By choosing a slightly thicker tube, you create a tight seal that won't fall off or slip easily.

installation guide

1. Push the pipe into the room.To install, simply push the pipe into the gap between the stove and counter with your fingers until it is perfectly level.
2. Check positioning.Make sure the end of the tube is pressed against the wall before placing it. Keep it level with your countertops because pushing it down too far creates a trap for crumbs to fall into the tube.
3. Take care of your tube.If it is dirty, remove the hose and wash it in a sink filled with warm, soapy water. Make sure it is completely air dry before reattaching.

Using T-Molding

An alternative is to purchase a T-shaped plastic rolling pin to complement the style of your countertops. Transition moldings or T-moldings, which come in many colors and styles, are best used on floors to cover gaps or gaps.

installation guide

1. Measure and cut out your frame.Before installing, measure from the edge of the counter to the back of the range and cut the frame to the exact length you need. Using a shaping knife or scissors, carefully trim it to fit the length of the gap perfectly.
2. Wrap the duct tape around the lower arm.If you need a tighter fit, you can create one with tape if necessary. If the frame is loose in space, use masking tape to wrap the lower (vertical) arm to make it thicker. Continue wrapping the tape until the frame fits snugly in the space.
3. Test fit.Test each layer of tape to make sure the T-frame will hold it firmly in place. Work carefully to ensure that none of the sticky sides of the tape are exposed.
4. Clean your frame.If the frame is dirty, it can be cleaned with a cloth and soapy water. If it is not enough, remove, soak in soapy water and scrub with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. After complete air drying, it can be replaced.

Cleaning the space between the stove and the counter

It goes without saying that if there is already food or other debris in the gap between the stove and the counter, you should remove it before closing the gap.

If food is left in there, it may have an unpleasant odor or even attract pests. It could attract unwanted insect pests and even worms. The way to clean this area depends on the width.

Confined Space Guide

1. Scrape away the dirt with a butter knife.Keep the blade pointing away from you. Insert the knife into the gap between the range and the cabinet and use it to carefully remove any debris for disposal.
2. Clean the area.Then, spray a kitchen cleaner or all-purpose disinfectant onto a paper towel or microfiber cloth and blot the stain to make sure it's spotless. repeat as many times as necessary.

Instructions for larger rooms

1. Make a tool or use the vacuum to remove the food.Wrap a microfiber cloth around a putty knife or plastic stick and use this tool to pick up the dirt. If space is available, you can use the narrow attachment on your vacuum to ensure the area is perfectly cleaned.
2. Dry the area well.Make sure it is completely dry before using electrical devices nearby.

Related questions

How do you bridge the gap between countertops and refrigerators?

Filling a gap between the counter and the refrigerator is the same as filling a gap between the stove and the counter. Although a T shape will not work in this case, plastic tubes will. Follow the plastic piping instructions in this article to fill your void.

How much space do you need on each side of an oven?

While spaces can be annoying, they are necessary. You will need at least 1 inch on each side of the oven. So that it can breathe and the heat does not deform the material of your countertops over time.

packaging

We understand the frustration of dropping food in the gap between your stove and counter while cooking. It's even more annoying when you have to figure out how to get it and you still can't get everything.

It may be a good idea to cover this gap to avoid unnecessary cleanup. Covering the opening means you can spend less time cleaning and more energy elsewhere.

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