Q. I’m tiling a countertop backsplash, but once the tile is in place the electrical outlets will be too far recessed to replace the switchplates. Is there an easy way to fix this?
A. Hardware stores usually sell extensions for plastic outlet boxes for these exact situations. To install, first disconnect the power supply and then unscrew the outlet. The plastic extension is basically just a rectangular plastic “ring” that fits over the face of existing box. Just thread the outlet through the extension, screw the extension to the box, then screw the outlet to the extension in the same manner you would with a standard electrical box.
