diff --git a/pylot/core/util/utils.py b/pylot/core/util/utils.py
index 5f4313f9..463e76f4 100644
--- a/pylot/core/util/utils.py
+++ b/pylot/core/util/utils.py
@@ -870,7 +870,7 @@ def merge_stream(stream):
     if gaps:
         # list of merged stations (seed_ids)
         merged = ['{}.{}.{}.{}'.format(*gap[:4]) for gap in gaps]
-        stream.merge()
+        stream.merge(method=1)
         print('Merged the following stations because of gaps:')
         for merged_station in merged:
             print(merged_station)
diff --git a/pylot/core/util/widgets.py b/pylot/core/util/widgets.py
index 97a8a398..9cae2b04 100644
--- a/pylot/core/util/widgets.py
+++ b/pylot/core/util/widgets.py
@@ -1233,7 +1233,7 @@ class PylotCanvas(FigureCanvas):
         gaps = st_select.get_gaps()
         if gaps:
             merged = ['{}.{}.{}.{}'.format(*gap[:4]) for gap in gaps]
-            st_select.merge()
+            st_select.merge(method=1)
             print('Merged the following stations because of gaps:')
             for merged_station in merged:
                 print(merged_station)