In both of our houses, we have had the need to caulk a large gap. One was a poorly installed countertop, the other a tub. In one case the wall was bowed, causing one or more spots to be larger than the rest.
If you try to just fill these gaps with silicone caulk, there’s nothing for it to grab on to, and as it dries it caves in. So what do you do about it?
Turns out there’s a magic solution called a backer rod. It’s a soft foam tube in various sizes that you cut and stuff into the gaps (1/4 inch down) so you can caulk on top of it.
Tub gap with old caulk removed, and with backer rod inserted
Now you can cover gaps to you heart’s content! (awaiting cleanup)
I can’t believe how well the backer rod works. It’s just an outstanding solution in these circumstances, and I love its efficiency and how effective it is. I would certainly recommend it.