How to Fill the Spaces Around a Refrigerator
A refrigerator is one of the most important parts of any kitchen. It not only serves as a perfect storage solution for food and beverages, but it also adds to the kitchen aesthetics. However, when you install a refrigerator, you may not always get the perfect fit. This can cause unsightly spaces between the refrigerator and the surrounding cabinets. Don't worry; there is a simple and effective solution to this problem - using a trim kit. In this blog, we will discuss how to fill the spaces around a refrigerator using a trim kit.
Which space should you fill – just the top space or both the top and side spaces?
The configuration of each cabinet varies. Hence, it will depend on your unique layout. If you have a 36" wide refrigerator cabinet, you may only have small side spaces of 1/16" or 1/8". In such cases, filling only the top space above the refrigerator could be your preference. Our louvered grille offers flexibility with a minimum height of 1-1/2" and a maximum height of 18". It serves as a fantastic option when trying to figure out how to fill the spaces around a refrigerator.
Many people ask us if it's possible to have the full kit even with limited space on the sides. The answer is generally yes. We can make adjustments to the trim and mounting options to accommodate almost any space.
When deciding between the top trim only and the full kit, price becomes a factor. Currently, the price difference between the two options is approximately $125. For up-to-date pricing information, please visit our website.
If you have noticeable spaces on all three sides of your fridge, particularly gaps over 3/8" on each side and over 1/2" on the top, the full kit (including top and side trim) is definitely worth considering. It provides a seamless look and makes your fridge blend in naturally.
Explore the available trim options to effectively fill the spaces around your refrigerator.
When deciding on how to fill the spaces around a refrigerator, you have two main trim options to consider. The first option is the finish. To match stainless refrigerators on the market, we offer 4 different finishes - brushed stainless steel, white, black, and black stainless. You can check out our ”Finish Recommendation Chart” here, order samples to see which finish matches your make and model, or you can browse our customer gallery for inspiration. Additionally, you can reach out to us for personalized recommendations based on our extensive data and photos.
The second option is the mounting style. We provide both a proud mount and a flush mount for the top grille. Let's go over both options in detail. For the proud mount, please note that the front of the grille can extend up to 4-5/8" from the front of the cabinet. Furthermore, the proud mount requires a minimum gap height of 2-1/2" to accommodate our proud mount brackets.
Installing your Trim Kit
Installing a refrigerator trim kit may seem hard, but it's actually pretty easy. The most important thing is to take your time and pay attention to the instructions. Each kit comes with an installation video that will help you finish the job quickly and make your refrigerator look great. All of the pieces are already cut to the right size and all of the mounting hardware you need comes in the box. You just need a screwdriver!
Conclusion
Filling the spaces around a refrigerator using a trim kit is a simple and effective solution to an unsightly and frustrating problem. By choosing the right trim kit for your refrigerator, measuring the spaces, installing the kit correctly, and maintaining the trim kit, you can ensure that your refrigerator looks like it’s been custom-fitted into your space. With a little bit of effort, your kitchen can look beautiful and cohesive once again. Thanks for reading and learning how to fill the spaces around a refrigerator.
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FAQs
What are my options for filling the empty space above my refrigerator?
We offer a custom top grille in two mounting styles. The proud mount uses slotted brackets to extend outward up to 4-7/8 inches, allowing it to sit flush with the front of your refrigerator doors. The flush mount nests closer to the cabinet, protruding only 3/4-inch, and can be customized to extend above your cabinet opening to cover extra blank space and add height.
How do you close the gaps on the sides of the refrigerator while still allowing the appliance to be moved?
We fabricate custom stainless steel side trims that attach to the front face of your cabinet. They're designed to overlap the cabinet using high-adhesion 3M VHB tape. When installed, the trim leaves a 1/8-inch to 3/16-inch functional clearance between the trim and the refrigerator, so the appliance can still be rolled out for cleaning or maintenance.
How do I hide the gap if my freestanding refrigerator sticks out past the cabinets and exposes its painted sides?
If your refrigerator's painted casing protrudes 3/4-inch or less, our standard side trim pieces will cover it. If it protrudes more than 3/4-inch, we offer custom stainless steel side panels that attach directly to the painted case of the refrigerator using high-adhesion VHB tape or magnets, making the sides look like a continuation of your stainless steel doors.
Can I add a trim piece to fill the empty space beneath my refrigerator?
Yes. We offer a custom stainless steel bottom toe-kick grille that snaps into place using a hidden magnetic mounting system. Because some refrigerators have minimal clearance near the floor, many homeowners build a sturdy wooden platform (like stacked 2x6 boards) to elevate their refrigerators by a few inches, creating the clearance needed for a bottom grille and achieving a taller, built-in look.
How do I fill the gap between two freestanding refrigerators installed side by side?
We offer a stainless steel center joiner piece. This strip is typically available in 3/4-inch, 1-1/2-inch, or 2-1/4-inch widths. It attaches directly to the side case of one refrigerator with adhesive, and you slide the second refrigerator next to it to create a continuous bridge between the two appliances.