How to Make Outlets Flush With Stone Backsplash

Tiling a backsplash with stone is one way to change the decor of the kitchen and to protect the wall from water damage. One problem installers must overcome when installing stone tile is the thickness. Once the tile is on the wall any electrical outlets may be recessed by the thickness of the tile. The solution to recessed outlets is to install an electrical box extender which brings the face of the outlet flush with the stone tile surface.

Screwdriver
Electrical box extender

Instructions

- 1
  Locate the main circuit breaker for the home and turn off the power to the room where the stone backsplash is located.
- 2
  Look closely at one of the recessed outlets and locate the two screws that hold it in place. Use a screwdriver to remove each screw completely and set them aside.
- 3
  Reach into the outlet and grasp it. Pull it out of the wall gently, but leave the wires behind it attached.
- 4
  Insert an electrical box extender over the electrical outlet and slide it back until it fits flush with the metal box inside the wall.
- 5
  Push the outlet back into the wall so that the outlet lip rests on the new extender box at the wall surface. Coil the wires behind the outlet gently as you push it back so that they are completely encased inside the box.
- 6
  Re-insert both of the screws through the screw holes in the outlet using the screwdriver to reattach the outlet.
- 7
  Place an outlet cover over the outlet and insert the provided screw in the center screw hole with the screwdriver to complete the installation. Turn the power back on at the main circuit breaker.

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