How to Install Kitchen Tile Backsplash Around Plugs

Install the tile on the backsplash as you would normally, working your way toward a receptacle on the wall. Spread mastic on the wall with a notched trowel and stack full tiles on top of each other. Cut tiles to fit into the underside of the cabinets with the tile wetsaw. Spread your mastic adhesive with a notched trowel all the way up to the edge of the box.

Measure the dimensions of the cutout you need to make for the electrical box. Place the end of the tape measure on the edge of an adjacent piece of tile and check the distance from the edge of the closest full piece to the edge of the box. Transfer those measurements to a piece of tile, minus the width of your grout joint, to establish a cutout mark. Leave just enough room for the screws that will mount the faceplate of the box later on.

Cut the tile on the tile wetsaw. Set the tile on the tray of the saw. Turn on the saw and push the tray into the blade so that it cuts along the line you marked on your tile with a grease pencil. Repeat this for the marks. Remove the waste material between your cuts with a pair of tile nippers.

Dry the pieces of tile off with an old towel to remove the excess water before installing them on the wall. Double-check the size of the cuts before you install them, as you want the edge of the cuts to run all the way up to the outside edge of the electrical box so that the face plate will cover all of the cuts.