How to extend outlets from wall to be flush with new tile backsplash?

Linda B
by Linda B
Our existing kitchen has a painted backsplash. Now that we're adding tile, the outlets need to come out from the wall to be flush with the new tile. How can this be achieved?

  7 answers
  • Dee Gonyea Dee Gonyea on Aug 29, 2017

    I believe what you're looking for are wall plate spacers. This adds some room between the existing outlet and the cover.

  • Ebbjdl Ebbjdl on Aug 29, 2017

    You can add dry wall around the outlet, bring it forward, and fasten to the dry wall with a screw. I would personally hire an electrician, you probably have at least 2-3 outlets. It shouldn't be that expensive, and you playing with electric, you don't want a fire. I had 8 thermostats in stalled, and to overhead fans. It was $225. Good Luck!

  • SandiA SandiA on Aug 29, 2017

    Any place that sells electrical parts will have outlet extenders. You'll need to take off the cover, install the extenders and pull the outlet out to it's new location. Not difficult at all. I recommend buying the Black & Decker book "The Complete Guide to Home Wiring" before messing with electrical wiring as it can be dangerous if you don't know what you are doing. The book is $20 and is excellent as everything is shown in full color photos and diagrams. It's available at Lowes, Home Depot and Menards. Be sure to turn off the juice before you do any work. I took two semesters of "Home Electrical Wiring" classes at the local community college and have helped wire half a dozen Habitat houses as well as putting three complete new circuits in my own old house. One of the best investments of time and money I've ever made!

  • Phil a Phil a on Aug 29, 2017

    I agree with Dee Gonyea that plastic spacers are the safest and easiest solution.


    They "accordian" to fit the space needed and can be cut off easily. Spacers like these will work.

    https://www.lowes.com/pd/Gardner-Bender-24-Pack-0-75-in-W-x-4-in-L-Yellow-Plastic-Wall-Plate-Spacer/4573784


    You'll also need longer screws, maybe like these since Philips head screws are easier to install/remove:

    https://www.lowes.com/pd/Hillman-6-Count-8-32-x-1-3-4-in-Round-Head-Standard-SAE-Machine-Screws/3035875


    BTW...this is a VERY useful tool to add to your toolbox. It's a wire cutter, crimper and screw cutter. It allows you to cut small machine screws to proper lengths without messing up the threads. Very handy to have. You might find some near you that are similar to these:

    http://www.homedepot.com/p/Stanley-8-in-Wire-Stripper-and-Cutter-and-Crimper-84-199/203860092


  • Linda B Linda B on Aug 30, 2017

    Thanks to all who replied. I'm thrilled to try the solution recommended. I had no idea it would be so easy....thank you!

  • Linda B Linda B on Aug 31, 2017

    Thanks for the video...very helpful!