The gap between your countertop and your backsplash must be filled. Filling this gap with caulk ensures the countertop and backsplash installation look complete and prevents food particles from entering the gap.
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that caulking these gaps reduces the risk of mildew or mold growth as well as blocking any drafts. However, it is important to understand that there are certain rules that must be followed to ensure your caulk performs as expected. If caulk becomes damaged or discolored, it can impact the overall look of your countertops.
Learning how to properly caulk the space between your countertop and backsplash as well as learning the best type of caulk to use for a backsplash will keep your kitchen and bath looking amazing.
The first thing you must do is gather the necessary supplies. You will only need a few items to caulk your backsplash, including:
There are several types of caulks on the market. Knowing the best one for your project will ensure a smooth application and an extended life expectancy of your caulk. So, which one is best for caulking the area between a countertop and a backsplash?
We recommend using pure silicone caulk. Silicone caulk is a premium caulk that offers an extended life expectancy. This flexible caulk is perfect for kitchens and bathrooms thanks to its waterproofing capabilities.
Silicone caulk also has inhibitors that minimize the risk of discoloration. In addition to this, pure silicone caulk is also mold-resistant, making it an excellent choice for damp environments.
Pure silicone caulk does have one rather significant downside and that is it is not paintable. This is not a problem when caulking between a backsplash and a countertop. To help you ascertain if the silicone caulk is pure silicone check to see if it says it is paintable. If it can be painted, it is not pure silicone.
Pure silicone offers pretty strong adhesion, making it a great caulk for hard to glue materials like natural stone countertops and backsplashes.
Caulking your backsplash and countertops is easy, requiring five simple steps. Once you have gathered your supplies, you are ready to begin.
A low-tack tape like painter's tape will make cleanup a breeze. Running tape along the length of your countertop and backsplash helps ensure a straight and even line.
Place your tube of caulk in the caulking gun. Squeeze the trigger of the caulk gun until the metal plate is snug against the back of the caulk tube. Snip the end of the tube of caulk so you are ready to begin caulking the seam.
When applying the caulk to the crack between your countertop and your backsplash, it is essential that you use stead pressure and go at a steady pace. Keep the caulking tool at an angle and push the caulk into the gap rather than dragging the caulk over the gap. This technique pushes the caulk into the seam.
Once you have run the caulk across the gap between the countertop and backsplash, wet your finger and gently push it into the joint. Keep your towel handy to wipe up any excess caulk and clean your hands as you caulk the gap.
The last step is to remove the tape and allow the caulk to cure. To prevent messing up your caulk job, remove the top piece of your tape first. We recommend pulling the tape upward at a slight angle to prevent dragging the tape through the caulk.
Once the top piece is removed, it is time to remove the bottom piece of tape. Follow the instructions above on how to remove the tape without dragging it through your caulk.
Finally, use a clean corner of your damp towel to wipe up any excess caulk and ensure the caulk is level. You do not want any bumps or cracks in your caulk. Performing the final wipe-up will ensure a perfect edge.
Caulking the area between your countertop and your backsplash protects your walls, countertop surfaces, and cabinetry. Silicone caulk is waterproof and helps prevent mildew and mold from growing in the crack between your countertop and your backsplash.
