If you’re a fan of a clean, polished look, especially in bathrooms, you may not appreciate that annoying gap between the vanity and the wall. While it could only be a 2-inch gap, it is still noticeable from certain angles.
It can be a bit challenging to find the right method to fix this issue so that it is functional, durable, but still aesthetically pleasing.
Today we’re talking about the best way to fill the gap between vanity and wall that is both durable, seamless, and aligned with your interior design.
How to avoid a gap between the vanity and the wall
When it comes to any issue, especially in interior design, it is always better to prevent it than to “treat” it later on. The same applies to the gap between vanity and wall in the bathroom, which is a very common issue.
Of course, this step will only be helpful to those of you who are just now in the process of planning where your vanity is going to go and how you’re going to mount it on the wall. Our tips and tricks for fixing the gap that’s already been made will be discussed a bit later.
Needless to say, it could also come in handy to skim-read through this part as well, so you’re aware of any potential mistakes and problems the next time you’re installing a vanity in your home.
The so-called floating vanity, or wall-hung vanity, is one of the most beautiful accessories you can add to your bathroom. It adds a touch of sophistication and class to any room, in addition to being highly functional and easy to maintain.
Let’s go over the crucial steps to successfully install your vanity onto the wall and position it correctly so that little to no work is needed afterward:
- First and foremost, it is necessary to carefully plan everything. You want to decide where you’re going to place the vanity, measure everything (and repeat the measuring process to make sure the measurements are correct).
- Use chalk to mark where your vanity will be placed.
- Remove the old sink.
- One of the most important factors is checking the wall and making sure it is completely straight. If this isn’t the case, you could end up with a large gap between vanity and wall which may be harder to fill afterward.
- In case the wall requires some repair work, make sure to complete this step prior to installing the vanity, as it is much easier to fix a bare wall.
- To prepare the wall for the vanity, you can either scribe or sand the wall.
- Make sure that the wall is completely dry and level before mounting your vanity.
- Place the vanity onto the wall according to the marks you’ve made before. Mark where the positions for the screw holes.
- Set the vanity unit aside and drill the holes where you’ve made marks using an electric drill.
- An important step to ensure the stability and correct positioning of your vanity is adding wall plugs.
- Position the vanity unit onto the wall using screws.
- You want to make sure that the vanity is stable, secure, and you’re satisfied with its positioning.
- Position the sink into the cabinet, making sure it is perfectly fitted and connected to the drain and water pipes. Also, check if the pipes are sealed to avoid any leaks.
- The last step is using caulk to make sure there isn’t a large gap between the sink and wall. In addition, you want to fill the gap between the wall and the vanity. This way you’re also protecting the wall and the vanity from water.
How to fill the gap between the vanity and the wall
If you’ve already found yourself in a predicament and you’re looking to fill the gap between bathroom vanity and wall, or the gap between vanity and sidewall, it is possible to achieve this even after you’ve installed the vanity unit.
It is important to address the fact that it if your bathroom vanity does not touch walls, it isn’t a critical issue, as long as it isn’t creating other problems. Some vanity units are simply designed in a way that leaves a certain gap between the unit and the wall.
Nevertheless, there is always the aesthetic factor, and you may want to fill in the gap regardless of the functionality. This gap may also create issues such as water stains, or even molding behind the vanity unit, which is certainly a sign to get it filled (after cleaning it).
Below you will find the steps to fill the gap between vanity and wall based on the size of the gap itself.
Bathroom sealant tape (small gaps)
If you’re dealing with a small gap, one of the best solutions you can use to fill it in is bathroom sealant tape. This kind of tape is waterproof, and it should last for a really long time. Once it wears off, you can easily replace it with a new piece.
- Before applying the tape, it is necessary to clean the area thoroughly and make sure it is completely dry. If you apply the tape to a wet area, the glue won’t stick and the tape will keep sliding until it falls off completely.
- After applying the tape, make sure to press it tightly, allowing the glue to stick to the area. Pressing it against the surface will secure it in place. Give the glue some time to dry completely before using the sink.
Caulk (small gaps)
Just like the tape, caulk is extremely easy to use and it is a convenient solution to use in the stucco process for smaller gaps. If we were to compare the two, we’d have to say that the caulk is a slightly more durable material, and you may also find it more pleasing to the eye.
- Prepare the area by cleaning it thoroughly and making sure it is dry before caulking.
- Line the walls with tape so you don’t get any caulk on them. This will also help you get a straight line.
- Fill in the gap with the caulk and let it dry completely before using the sink.
- Use transparent caulk if you don’t want it to show.
Caulk with a backer rod (medium gaps)
In case the gap is a bit bigger, filling it with caulk alone won’t do the trick. You’ll need a bit more support and security, which you can get by simply adding a backer rod.
- Prepare the area by cleaning it and making sure it is dry before starting any work.
- Position the backer rod in the gap between the cabinet and the wall.
- Add caulk to fill in the gap, but also to cover the backer rod and secure it in place.
- You can choose caulk in the color of your wall/tiles, or simply use transparent caulk so the color doesn’t clash with your bathroom design.
Backsplash (large gaps)
A thick backsplash, or drywall, is not only a highly functional, convenient solution for this issue, but it can also be a trendy addition to your bathroom design, and a nice pop of color and/or texture in the color scheme.
This is a great option if you’re experiencing problems with the water reaching the back of the wall when you’re using the sink, or simply if you’re looking for a stylish way to make the vanity unit “disappear” into the wall, without any noticeable gaps.
A backsplash is available in a number of sizes, designs, and colors, so you can choose whichever matches your bathroom design, as well as the size of the gap you’re trying to cover up.
- Clean the area and make sure it is completely dry and free of any dust and particles before starting the process.
- Use a level and a tape measure to measure out the area where you’ll be applying the backsplash. Make sure to create guidelines for yourself using chalk or thumb pins.
- Apply a coating of tile adhesive using a tiling trowel.
- Apply the tiles onto the layer of adhesive, making sure you’re securing each tile by pushing and twisting it slightly. Also, ensure that the tile is placed correctly before letting the adhesive dry.
- Use spacers, which will help you position tiles correctly and make sure they’re aligned. Also, these spacers will prevent the tiles from moving up and down.
- Make sure to remove the side spacer with each new tile, but the bottom and the top spacers should stay until you’ve completed the entire row.
- Repeat all the steps until you’ve placed all the tiles and completed the entire backsplash. Check the positioning of all tiles and make any corrections before the adhesive starts drying.
- Leave the adhesive to dry overnight and avoid using any water around the area so the tiles can stay in place.
- Once the adhesive has dried, it is time to remove all the spacers, as well as any pins you’ve used to mark the area.
- Prepare the grout and apply it onto the tiles, ensuring that the grout is pressed into all the spaces around the tiles.
- Remove the grout residue from the tiles using a cleaning solution (combine one part plain vinegar to one part water).
Paul Wilson is a highly skilled plumber with over ten years of experience in the industry. He holds an IDPH license and takes pride in his ability to tackle many plumbing issues and successfully complete even the most challenging projects.
