electric outlets in outer wall of cement block house

I'm trying to find out something about running wiring and installing boxes for outlets and switches on an outer kitchen wall in a cement block house. My neighbor the electrician doesn't want to do the job, because he's afraid that he'll have to cut into the cement block to accomodate a box. There are two electric outlets in this wall already. (Admittedly, I haven't pulled them out to see how they're installed. I'm a bit of a coward when it comes to electricity.) I'm hoping that the original electricians were able to use a standard dimension box without cutting the cement block. The house was built in 1952. I drilled some test holes to check the wall construction. It seems that the walls themselves are 1 inch thick (1/2 inch perforated gypsum board with 1/2 inch of plaster) that have about 3/4 inch space between the cement block and the gypsum (furring strip?).

So, does it sound like there is a way run cable up the 3/4 inch space and install a special dimension box without cutting into the cement block? Would a retrofit box with those metal tabs or a plastic box with the toggle wing-things on the side be able to fit in this space and handle the 1 inch thick plaster? I know most contemporary construction has 1/2 or 5/8 inch thick sheet rock walls and don't know if these boxes only work for that type of construction. Appreciate any and all responses.

 

He's probably right. There is smaller boxes, but not for re-work. If you was to get lucky enough to cut the box hole out in the center of the cavity of the block then this could be done with out to much trouble. How about wiremold? If the Repct. is serving the counter you could posable use a decrative Recpt. box mounted on your counter that would allow the Recpt. to be above the counter hieght. and not face up.

 

What's involved is applying a layer of 1/2 sheetrock over the existing finish? This will allow cutting groves and holes in the existing wall to expidite the installation of the cables. An 1-1/2" deep outlet box with a 1/2" deep "rough cover" is sufficient depth for most outlets.-----Good Luck!!!!