Sink Molding separating from wall

[ksitte]

Hello,

During a rainy spell a couple of weeks ago, while we were sitting inside and enjoying the view, we noticed an item needing attention in SittEscape. Where the backsplash meets the bathroom wall in our 17B, the backsplash is separating from the wall. I've attached a picture fyi.

Anywhere else and it's probably no big deal. By the cooking area, it becomes a trap for crumbs, vermin, nasty critters,etc. The screw right below the separation no longer bites into the bathroom sidewall, hence the problem. Obviously, the screw just popped from the support. I can't just add a longer screw for fear of piercing the bath wall.

Thoughts on a remedy? I've tried some thin strips of VHB tape but, after a while, even the tape fails. I don't think I just want to caulk over the gap. Clear caulking doesn't sound any better. A larger sized screw [not longer] would require a different vinyl cap.

So I'm looking for some other ideas.

KSitte

PS: Yup, I know: we have to get out more, even when it rains. Otherwise we sit around and think of things to do.

[Jim Bennett]

I would imagine you could just pop the caps, and take out the screws, the pull the laminate, clean and put back together again. off

[gocamp]

Would each time taking the screws in and out make matters worse, slowly wobbling out the hole, just thinking aloud here. Isn't the tabbed in wood to the shell just pine? Wonder if a little bigger DIA screw, for more bite, with the length cut right (with a dremel tool cut off wheel) would work. I guess the cap screw fit would decide that answer.

[Jim Bennett]

It should be no issue reusing the screws, just don't overtighten them. If a larger diameter was needed, I would just buy ones of the same length.

The caps and cap holders can be bought at Home Depot, and likely other hardware stores too.

[JohnB]

We have a similar thing happening on our 2012 15A trailer after just one year.
The 3 screws holding the back splash onto the drivers side wall are all coming loose along with about 3 more going down the vertical wall on the back end of the galley. I have tightened them twice now in the last 2 weeks and concerned that it may happen again. I thought about putting in a larger diameter, same length screws to see if that made a difference but have not done that as yet. It will be the next step I guess if they come loose again.

Maybe it will require putting in some additional screws to beef up the 3 that are already there? That is assuming that there is a solid board in the wall along the length of the back splash! My assumption is that there probably is a backer board there. Will discuss with Escape first before I install additional screws.

Ksitte - you may want to consider installing 2 or more additional screws as well to beef up the one that is coming loose. I am sure that would make a big difference and keep the loose one in place. There is likely a horizontal 1x2 behind the wall where the existing screw is positioned?

[gocamp]

Don't know if it helps but there is the ole file down a toothpick and glue it into the wobbled out hole for screw bite trick. Good luck.

[escape artist]

Hi: ksitte... Our trim has been like that since day one. The gap came in handy last trip out as we had a visit from some ants. Put a little anti ant powder back in there and the ants are gone without a trace. Alf
escape artist N.S. of Lake Erie

[Jim Bennett]

Originally Posted by JohnB

Maybe it will require putting in some additional screws to beef up the 3 that are already there? That is assuming that there is a solid board in the wall along the length of the back splash! My assumption is that there probably is a backer board there. Will discuss with Escape first before I install additional screws.

When you have the backsplash off, you could feel where the backing is through the vinyl and insulation.

[Linda]

Why not call or email Escape Trailer and ask Reace about this? Just a suggestion.

[santacruzer]

Even if you're out of warranty, Reace may have some suggestions regarding repairs.

[Jim Bennett]

Before bothering anyone at Escape, I would still see if you can do it yourself, it should be quite easy. If you still can't make it all better, then drop Reace an email for sure.

In the photo you show, the gap is worse at the screw, indicating it could use to be snugged up a little possibly.

[ksitte]

Thanks to all for those great suggestions. I'll let you know which one is successful.

KSitte