Tiling a back splash?

Question

We will be tiling a backsplash directly onto drywall after our countertops are installed. My question is -- what do I do about the electrical outlets in that area? The tile is about 1/4 inch thick -- and I want the outlets even with the tile (right?) After I tile around the outlet openings, then how do you make them flush when you put everything back together? For example, do I just pull the sockets out so that the screw brackets sit on top of the tile? If so, then do I need to drill screw holes through the tile? If so, then how do I make sure that the tile does not break or crack?

Answer 1

Cut the tile so that it fits around the outside of the existing box, and then obtain some 1/4" box extensions that will bring the boxes out to meet the surface of the tiles you're installing. If you can't locate these, proceed as you've suggested, but cut the tile around the outlet mounting holes, and use longer screws to install the outlets over the top of the tiles.

Answer 2

There is a couple of ways to do this. First and easiest way it to tile the whole splash back and then fix the socket fronts direct over the tiles. The one problem with this is that there may be clearance behind the socket and the tiles (Tile joints etc). If you do go down this route the tiles over the socket points need to be cut to allow the cables to pass through and you will need to drill holes through the tiles to screw the socket covers on. Drilling tiles is very easy, use a high speed metal drill bit and using the highest speed on the drill drill slowly through the tiles. You can use masking tape over where the holes are to be drilled to stop the drill bit from wandering.
The second way to do this is to fix the sockets directly into there wall backing plates and tile around them. If there is a height difference between the surface of the tile and the front of the socket you can play around with the socket backing plate using spacers behind the backing plate to bring it forward until flush.
The big advantage of doing it this way is that the sockets and the tiles are flush and there is no issues with the seal behind the socket front.
In my opinion it also looks a lot better.

Answer 3

Normally, you have 1/4" of extra thread on the outlet screw to play with. If the screw isn't long enough ask someone at your local hardware store for a longer screw. DON'T use drywall screws because they will strip the threads on your electrical box. So yes, pull the sockets out and let the screw brackets sit on the tile.

Answer 4

when you take the cover off there is that metal part the switch or the plug is on and there is little ears like that has a screw on the bottom and on top so you're going to unscrew those screws and you're tile should be cut to fit behind those ears you would need longer screws i use course Sheetrock screws when i do this 11/2" should work and when cut the tile around the plug just make sure you don't cover the hole where the screw would go in to that's all it'll be easy when you get the hang of it

tile and flooring expert

Answer 5

They are both great methods. Depending on the tile you select, it will be more cost affecting to use tile. Say you pick a nice glass tile, it should be cheaper than your granite. Plus it will still keep family and friends talking about the amazing kitchen! Hope that helps you out!

Answer 6

tile over drywall isnt a good idea. secondly, you want the tile set into a straight patern not your outlets. cut the tile to fit the outlit. unless you want to design the wall around the outlets. you may find you need holes in the center of tiles that way. best idea is to dryt set the tile in different ways so you can decide how it would look the best.

Answer 7

Shut off power to those receptacles/switches, remove the receptacle/switch from the box, and anything that attaches it to a stud
Move it out to flush with the face of the tile, reinstall screws. DO NOT DRILL into tile. The screws holding the box will keep it in place. The TABS/ attachment areas on top and bottom of a switch or receptacle can allow you to screw through openings into holes at the back of the box.

Steven Wolf

Certainly you might adjust so that the grout line is IN line with the receptacle boxes and screw into the void, into the box, then grout to that area which will be covered after the fact.

Answer 8

Here is an "how to"-

http://www.ultimatehandyman.co.uk/tiling/kitchen_splash_back.htm

Answer 9

yes, that is how you do it. when drilling glass or tile, use a lubricant. if it gets hot it will crack. good luck!

Answer 10

ok nice Q. I am just lazy to answer sorry. call company or check internet .