Tiles are beautiful and durable, but they can be difficult to work with. Installing an electrical outlet is one of the most common tasks that require cutting holes in tiles.
If you’re looking for the best way to cut holes in tiles, we have compiled a list of useful hacks that will help you. We’ll show you exactly what tools and materials are needed, as well as step-by-step instructions on how it is done. You won’t find another resource like this anywhere else!
Most people don’t know how to cut holes in tile for electrical outlets. The average person isn’t knowledgeable about this task, which is performed by professionals every day.
We have compiled a list of useful hacks regarding How to Cut a Hole in a Tile for an Electrical Outlet, and they are listed below.
What is The Purpose of Cutting Holes in The Tile for an Electrical Outlet?
Most homes have tiles in their bathrooms, kitchens, and hallways. One might be uncertain about cutting an electrical outlet hole in the tile. Well, there are several reasons why electrical outlets are needed. They are needed for appliances such as televisions, hairdryers, microwave ovens, etc.
However, most of the time, you need to cut holes as it is because you need to put there an outlet that needs to be installed somewhere, and tiles are obstructing its location. This may be caused by improper planning on how electrical outlets should go into a room, or people do not know how to cut tile for electrical outlets during installation.
What Tools Will You Need?
For cutting the hole, a diamond-tipped drill bit will work best. You will also need a glass cutter to make the initial holes for cutting, and tile adhesive or grout to put tiles back together after you have cut the hole.
You will also want a drywall saw or razor knife for finishing inside corners and making clean edges to fit the faceplate in. A good pair of side-cutting pliers makes stripping wiring much easier too.
When deciding how deep to cut your hole, keep in mind how thick of a wall your tiles are and also what type of material the electrical box is made of.
If you have thin tiles and a thin box, then just cut out the same size hole as your box in it. If the tile walls are thicker than the box, then you will need to cut deeper to allow for that thickness.
5 Easy Steps to Cutting Hole in Tile for Electrical Outlet
The process of how to cut holes in tile for an electrical outlet is not as complicated as it may seem. With the right tools and patience, you can easily do it yourself without calling a professional. Here are the five easy steps:
Measure the Space
Before you go out and buy the necessary tools, it is best to measure how big a space you have. You also have to consider how much room there will be between the wall and the area where the outlet should go.
In addition, think about the thickness of the tiles. Remember that you have to cut into both the tile and the drywall beneath it. Some tiles may be more than an inch thick, and you will need to drill a deeper hole to accommodate that.
Cut Out a Paper Template
There is a possibility that the space you have measured from how to cut a hole in tile for an electrical outlet will not fit an electrical box. If this happens, take a piece of paper and trace an outline of the box onto it so you can easily see how big it should be. Cut out the paper template and then use it as a stencil to trace onto your tiles.
Make a Hole
Place the paper template over the area, and press it against the tile. Poke holes in all four corners where you will need to cut out the shape of the electrical box hole using a glass cutter or something sharp. Once you have poked through both sides of your paper, take off all four corners at once, and slowly remove the paper template.
If you are confident enough to do this, then put the template aside. Otherwise, try it out on a tile that is not permanent until you get the hang of using the paper template.
Install Outlet
When you have cut a hole in the tile for an electrical outlet, it is time to install the outlet into that space. You will need a three-prong outlet without an extension cord built into it for this step.
This way, it can easily fit through the hole, and there are no issues of having any extra cords stuck out from the wall.
Put the tiles back
Once you have installed your electrical outlet and it is completely dry, put all of the tiles back around it. Use some tile adhesive for this part if you want the tiles to stay put. Make sure that you press them down firmly so they are secure.
After you have finished, clean up all of the dust on your tiles and there is an extra screw lying around. In case it looks dirty, wipe it down with a wet rag.
Cutting Electrical Outlets in Tiles: Safety Precautions
Eye protection: Use eye protection against flying particles and/or tile chips.
Hearing protection: Use appropriate hearing protection. Safety goggles should be worn at all times when the work activity has the potential to produce flying particles or dust. Safety glasses are not sufficient eye protection for this work activity.
Skin and body protection: Wear protective clothing that is resistant to chemicals and heat, such as safety or goggles, gloves, and a long-sleeved shirt and pants.
Protect your respiratory system with appropriate respiratory protection.
For extra precaution, you can also make sure that the electrical box is unplugged before cutting out a hole for it. Although this may seem like common sense, there have been times where people forget to do this and cut into live wires.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is It Possible to Cut Tile without Power Tools?
If you don’t have power tools, then yes, it is possible to cut tile without them. However, this would take a very long time and lots of patience. Thus, it is not recommended.
Does A Utility Knife Work for Cutting Tile?
Yes, you can cut tile with a utility knife and some elbow grease. It is recommended, however, to use a drywall saw instead as it would do the job much faster and more cleanly.
What Should be The Depth of The Hole?
You should always cut a hole precisely to the box size. The junction box must be flush with the finished wall surface (tile, drywall). Additionally, you need to make sure that when you cover your outlet with tile or another material, there will be no gaps between it and the surrounding area.
Final Words
This guide should have helped you to cut a hole in your tile for an electrical outlet, as well as some safety precautions to follow. If it’s been a while since you’ve updated your outlets and you’re not sure where to start, this article may also help! Be patient when making holes in tiles for electrical outlets. Know-how is needed when installing outlets in tile because it could be damaging if done incorrectly. Good luck with your electrical work!
