How can I fix misaligned cutouts for outlets in my kitchen backsplash without damaging the tiles?
So, I tried my hand at tiling for the first time and ended up with a wonky kitchen backsplash. The cutouts for the outlets are not lining up properly, especially at the bottom. And to add to my dilemma, I just realized that the tiles are already mortared in place. D’oh!
Now I’m brainstorming on what to do next. Here are a few ideas I came up with:
– I could try squeezing in a smaller outlet extender without touching the tiles (but the ones I have are too big…)
– Maybe I could use a Diamond flat blade on my oscillating saw to shave off about 1/8″ from where I need it…
– Or I could go back to the angle grinder (which I used for the original cutouts) for the same purpose. Although, I’m worried about cracking the tile if I go this route.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Please go easy on me, I’m a newbie when it comes to working with tile!
Buy an extra large cover plate
You could try using a grout blade on your oscillating tool to remove what you need at the bottom… or maybe the diamond blade would work too. Both are good choices.
So the question is, why didn’t you address this issue when you were installing the tile? How did you not catch it until later? If you do accidentally crack it, just cut a new one and learn from your mistake.
So basically, once it’s in place with mortar, it should stay put while you make precision cuts. As long as you control the grinder, you’re more likely to scratch the wires and box than to crack the tile. Maintain steady contact and move slowly…
Is this intended for a switch or an outlet? If it’s for an outlet on the backsplash wall, remove the incorrectly cut tile. After that, rewire it so that you can install a plug mold underneath the cabinets. This way, you’ll have all the outlets you need without them being visible on the backsplash. Finally, reinstall new full-size tile
Hey , make sure to put in GFCI breakers for the plug mold – they can be a pain to work with.
Do you think you could include this and drill a hole for the screw if needed?
I would suggest removing and replacing it. I usually use a nail punch to start at the corners, and it breaks up easily. To ensure clean corners and space for the cover plate screws on the new piece, I use my jigsaw with a diamond blade
Use a tile bit to drill the lower mounting hole area and purchase a larger goof plate to complete the task.
Why not try using a center punch to remove the mounting screw hole? Remember to place a spacer behind the separation mark at the top. The tile cut is too high, so adjust the device to prevent it from becoming loose during installation.
Larger dish
It appears that the bottom tab is bent upwards.
If I were you, I’d go with a dremel and a diamond bit.
Slowly grind it down with a dremel to reach the hole. Consider using a box extender. Use a larger plate if necessary to cover the area.
Box extender.
The top might pose an issue, it’s a bit too high. Hopefully the cover plate will hide it. We may need a bigger plate and some washers behind the plug to prevent it from going too far back.
What size are the tiles? Do you have any extras? Your best option is to gently remove the tiles, chip away the mortar, and redo the installation.
If you can reach the screws securing the metal box, you can take it out completely and swap it for a cut-in (old work) box. Just be cautious not to cut or drop the wires.
There are oversized plates you can use to cover that. Putting the same cover on all your kitchen outlets will make it look seamless. No harm, no foul.
‘t worry, all hope is not lost! Pick up some longer screws and box extenders are available at Lowe’s. As long as the outlet has enough support to prevent it from moving around inside the box, you’ll be fine. Consider getting a larger faceplate to give it a neat finish.
All fixed! The Dremel tile cutting bit worked wonders in carefully removing a small piece of tile to reveal the screw hole. Thanks for the tip ! Original outlets can be saved and the OG cover plate fits perfectly… My mistake was not in cutting too large a hole, but rather rushing and misjudging. Rookie mistake!
If you’re worried about that little notch at the bottom, I recommend using a Dremel tool. As for the top, that’s where I would focus my attention.