Last Updated on December 5, 2022
Your backsplash is not matching the wall, and you’re not sure how to fix it. You might think it’s difficult, but it’s actually quite simple. Sometimes, the backsplash may have shifted slightly during installation, leaving a gap that needs to be filled. Other times, the gap is simply due to inconsistency in the tile or countertop base.
Regardless of the cause, there are a few easy ways to fix this problem. This guide explains how to fix gap between backsplash and wall without having to replace the entire backsplash or embankment.
What Will You Need?
The following is a list of the supplies you will need in order to repair the hole between your backsplash and the wall:
- Caulking gun
- Caulk
- Utility knife
- Spackle
- Putty knife
- Sandpaper (coarse and fine grit)
- Paint (optional)
How to Fix Gap Between Backsplash and Wall Easily: Step-By-Step
You might have noticed a divide between your backsplash and wall. Maybe it’s been there since you installed the backsplash, or maybe it’s a new development. Either way, it can be frustrating to look at that unsightly gap every day. But the good news is that it’s easy to fix. Just follow these simple steps:
1. Prepare the Area:
If the gap is due to shifted tiles, remove any loose tile pieces. If the difference is due to an inconsistency in the installation, use a utility knife to score along with the backsplash so that it’s even with the wall.
2. Apply Caulk:
Using a caulking gun, apply a generous amount of caulk into the gap. Use your finger to soften the ledge so that it sits flush with the backsplash. If the gap is large, you may need to apply a second layer of caulk.
3. Apply Spackle:
Once the caulk is dry, apply spackle over the area with a putty knife. Smooth it out so that it’s level with the backsplash and wall. Allow the spackle to dry completely. It’s important to use spackle instead of caulking for this step because it provides a more seamless finish.
4. Sand the Area:
Once the spackle is dry, use coarse grit sandpaper to sand down the area until it’s smooth. Then, use fine-grit sandpaper to create an even smoother finish. If desired, you can paint over the area to match the rest of your backsplash or wall.
5. Enjoy Your New, Improved Backsplash:
You’ve successfully filled the gap between your backsplash and wall. Enjoy your new, improved backsplash.
Recommended Article To Read: Is it possible to fill in gaps in peel and stick tiles?
Reasons for Gaps between Backsplash and Wall
It’s possible you’re wondering why there’s a space between the wall and the backsplash in the first place. The following reasons may cause gaps to form between your backsplash and wall:
1. Installation Issues:
One of the most common reasons for gaps is installation issues. It might have shifted if the backsplash wasn’t installed properly, leaving a gap. This is usually an easy fix and can be resolved by following the steps above.
2. Incompatible Materials:
In some cases, the materials used for the backsplash and wall may not be compatible. For example, if you have a crystal backsplash but your embankment is made of drywall, there may be a hole due to the different materials expanding and contracting at different rates. Incompatible materials are usually not easy to fix and may require professional help.
3. Inconsistent Tile or Countertop Installation:
If your plate or countertop installation is inconsistent, it may also cause the backsplash to stick out from the wall. It’s important to make sure that the backsplash and wall are installed evenly so that this doesn’t happen.
4. Poor Quality Materials:
Using sub-standard materials for your backsplash or wall can cause the material to not adhere properly, resulting in gaps in the wall or backsplash. Most of the time, there is no easy solution for this problem, and you may have to take over the entire backsplash or wall to solve it.
5. Shrinkage:
An additional cause of gaps between the backsplash and the wall is shrinkage. As a result, the materials used to make the backsplash or wall contract or expand at different rates.
When you have a stone backsplash, but your wall is made of drywall, you may have a gap as the different materials expand and contract at different rates as a result of the changing seasons. There are usually no easy fixes to this type of problem, and you may need to seek professional assistance.
6. Uneven Walls:
If your walls are uneven, it can also create a space between your backsplash and the wall. Uneven walls are usually the result of poor construction or settlement issues. It is possible that if you have uneven walls, you will have to replace them in order to rectify the issue.
7. Water Damage:
A barrier is another common symptom of water damage. In the event that your backsplash has been damaged by water, it is important to repair the damage as soon as possible to avoid further problems.
8. Improper Caulking:
The caulking on your backsplash may have gaps that allow water to seep and damage it. Maintain your caulking by regularly checking it and repairing any gaps you find.
9. Cracks in the Wall:
If there are cracks in your wall, they may also allow water to seep behind the backsplash and cause damage. To avoid further problems with your walls, you should repair any cracks immediately to prevent further damage from occurring.
10. Poor Quality Adhesive:
If you use a poor-quality adhesive to install your backsplash, it may not adhere properly and cause the backsplash to come loose, leaving a gap. When installing a backsplash, be sure to use a good quality adhesive.
Preventing Gaps between Backsplash and Wall
After learning about all of the reasons why there may be a gap between your backsplash and surface, you’re probably wondering how you can prevent it. You can take the following steps to avoid gaps between your backsplash and wall:
• Use high-quality materials.
• Make sure the backsplash is installed properly.
• Use a consistent tile or countertop installation.
• Check the caulking regularly and repair any gaps that you may find.
• Repair any cracks in your wall as soon as possible.
• Use a high-quality adhesive when installing your backsplash.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
• Inspect the backsplash regularly and repair any damage that you may find.
By following these tips, you can help prevent gaps from forming between your backsplash and wall.
Conclusion
With the knowledge that you now have of the different causes of voids between the backsplash and wall and the steps you can follow to prevent them, you can make sure that your backsplash looks its absolute best. If you follow this guide, you can keep your backsplash looking new for a long time and avoid causing damage to it.
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