light switches and plug ins
#1
11-12-03, 02:45 PM
light switches and plug ins
I am putting ceramic tiles as a backsplash and under the kitchen cabinets. I have come to a light switch and plug in and not sure how to handle this situation. Do I need to put a spacer under the light switch to raise it flush with the tiles? What is the normal procedure for this? Thanks in advance!!
#2
11-12-03, 04:01 PM
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Switches and outlets have screws that are longer than necessary for just that reason. You can loosen the screws and cut your tile so it just catches the "tabs" on the top and bottom of the outlet, holding it out to the right level to easily put the covers back on. I don't like to use the cover to hold the switches and outlets in place.
#3
11-12-03, 05:04 PM
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The National Electrical Code requires you to buy box extenders to bring the elctrical box out closer to the surface. They come in a variety of depths.
#4
11-14-03, 12:03 PM
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Thanks for adding that note, John. There are excellent reasons for doing so.
I found out about that requirement about six months ago... until then, I didn't give it much thought.
I found out about that requirement about six months ago... until then, I didn't give it much thought.
#6
11-14-03, 08:50 PM
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Look it up some time. Article 314.20 of the 2002 NEC.
"In walls or ceilings with a surface of concrete, tile, gypsum, plaster, or other noncombustible material, boxes shall be installed so that the front edge of the box will not be set back of the finished surface by more than 6 mm (1/4 in.). In walls and ceilings constructed of wood or other combustible surface materials, boxes shall be flush with the finished surface or project therefrom."
"In walls or ceilings with a surface of concrete, tile, gypsum, plaster, or other noncombustible material, boxes shall be installed so that the front edge of the box will not be set back of the finished surface by more than 6 mm (1/4 in.). In walls and ceilings constructed of wood or other combustible surface materials, boxes shall be flush with the finished surface or project therefrom."
