Screwed up on backsplash, how to fix?

[thestrangebrew1]

Did some backsplash in the kitchen and on one of the outlets, I made the cutout too tight. Didn't realize it till everything set and I went to screw in the outlet. Now, I need to trim about 1/2" of the tile on the left side of the pic below. Anyone know how to fix this without breaking a whole sheet of backsplash?

 

[NutBucket]

Hmm. One solution would be to make two small metal plates. Screw the outlet to the plate and the plate to the junction box. It wouldn't be to code but nobody would ever notice. Might be easier than cutting tile.

Alternatively, there's probably some Dremel bit that will work. Might be a bit tedious but it should get the job done. I don't know if there's a blade for the oscillating tools (ie Fein Multimaster) that can handle tile but there might be. That might be your best bet.

 

[NetWareHead]

Dremel would be the best bet IMO. You will make alot of dust while grinding away. Id stay away from the oscillating tool here. While it is a precise tool, it also may loosen the mortar and grout which may lead to tiles popping later on down the line.

 

[edro]

Another vote for dremel with cutoff wheel.
Looks like you just need to cut off that center tile piece, so it would be quick and easy.

You could possibly drill ~10 small holes, then use pliers to snap the piece off.

You could also use back stab receptacle and not use the side screws. (you can take the screws out)
(old back stabs from the 1950s-1980s have a bad reputation, but newer ones are fine)

 

[thestrangebrew1]

Thanks for the replies. I'll take a look at the dremel attachments I have laying around and see what I can use. If I don't have anything, I'll drill some holes.

 

[DrPizza]

A pair of nippers can probably bite away at that, though you're risking damaging the tile.

 

[herm0016]

it its just the top and bottom, nip the tabs off the outlet and get on with it. if not, an angle grinder with a diamond blade would work to trim the tile. I use mine to cut outlet holes in the middle of larger tiles. messy though.

 

[NutBucket]

Looks like the issue is left-right alignment. Appears to be off by maybe .375"?

 

[thestrangebrew1]

Yea it's off left/right alignment. I bought a diamond dremel attachment to use this weekend when I have some time. We'll see how it turns out.