Home Garden

How to Install an Outlet Through Tile

For an active household, multiple outlets in a single room is a necessity. During remodeling or the updating process, the need for additional outlets may come as an afterthought. Once tile is installed, for instance on a kitchen backsplash, it may seem impossible to add outlet space without destroying the area. With the right process, the outlet may be added without the tile being destroyed to make way for that new must-have small appliance.

Things You'll Need

  • Wiring
  • Outlet
  • Tile cutter
  • Drill with diamond tip
  • Outlet cover
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Instructions

    • 1

      Run the wiring for the outlet behind the wall, but do not yet connect it to the power supply.

    • 2

      Measure the rectangular electrical box piece of the outlet to be installed. Use this measurement to mark a corresponding rectangle on the tile where the outlet will be placed.

    • 3

      Cut out the marked area of tile with a tile cutter. Work slowly and carefully to accurately remove the section of tile.

    • 4

      Reach through the created hole and find the run wires. Attach the wires to the outlet box. Follow the manufacturer's directions for attachment carefully.

    • 5

      Slide the outlet box into the opening. The screw brackets should be sitting along the wall. Use a drill with a diamond tip to drill through the screw bracket holes and put in the screws to secure the outlet to the wall.

    • 6

      Place an outlet cover over the outlet. Use the diamond tip on the drill to make holes for the screws. Align the cover and screw in place to hide the cuts in the tile.

    • 7

      Turn off the power. Connect the new wiring to the power supply. Turn the power back on and test your outlet.