How to Cover the Crack Between the Stove and the Counter

Keep food from collecting between your stove and counter with a cover.

Food that splatters and falls from the top of the stove into the crack between the unit and the counter can attract pest like roaches. Cleaning this area requires that you move the entire stove out of position just to gain access to a small amount of debris. A more efficient way to keep the crack between your stove and counter clean is to block any debris from falling down there in the first place.

Instructions

1. Cover the gap with a vinyl seam cover. The tongue on the bottom of the vinyl seam cover slips in between the stove and counter. Many are fire-retardant, and come in standard lengths to fit most stove sizes. They come in a variety of colors to match either your stove or counter. Check hardware stores, home improvement stores and online.

2. Position a magnetic stove strip over the crack between the stove and counter. These strips are attracted to the metal stove top and will stay in place without adhesive. They also don't need to be slipped in between the stove and counter, which allows them to come in a flat shape. They come in a variety of colors, and many are resistant to fire and heat. The strips are available at home improvement stores and online.

3. Bridge the crack between the stove and counter with Spacetape. Spacetape is a nonstick tape that is resistant to heat. It works similar to other tapes -- just cut the tape to the desired length and smooth it over the gap. The adhesive on the tape backing will keep it in place. The nonstick surface of the tape allows you to wipe up any spills or splatters.

References

• Green Living Q & A: Stove & Countertop Gap, Spacetape

Resources

• Nextag: Gap Cap and Seam Gap Protector
• Chef's Planet: Spacetape
• Easy Comforts: Gap Cap for Stovetops