Small screwless cover plates?
 

I wasn't taking the backsplash into consideration, and I mounted the outlet boxes about 1/2" too low for my cover plates (average size). What are my options? I prefer screwless.

Could I heat up the cover plate so I could maybe snip the bottom off?

http://hphotos-sjc1.fbcdn.net/hs284...._7175228_n.jpg

I don't even think the smallest plate would fit there without modification. Could you have the backsplash cut? It doesn't look like it is secured yet.

Having the backsplash cut isn't really an option - it's granite and a finished edge.

not the bottom

Is the plumbing all hooked up already?

I'd lay the cabinet down on it's back and saw off 1/2" from the bottom.

Problem solved.

DM

Using a fine tooth saw (or a coping saw?) you can cut the cover plate to match the edge of the countertop.

Hint: Saw slowly. Sawing always generates heat and if the plate melts then the saw blade gets stuck.

I think that heating the cover plate will yield less accurate results.

Cutting the cabinet isn't a terrible idea, but it kind of defeats the purpose of my higher countertops...though 1/2" isn't bad. I'll pick up a fine toothed blade on my way home.

One problem I see is that the screwless cover plates tend to snap on the bottom...i guess I might have to live with screws :)

It seems to me the simplest solution, and you won't even notice the half inch drop. Po)
*Good Luck!*

DM

Actually...it's not that simple...if it were 4 legs it would be, but trying to cut exactly 1/2" off the bottom of that vanity might be tricky.

For cryin' out loud. This is why there are "Madison" box clips. (Google "Madison Bars") or go HERE.

If you can move your receptacle a few inches, do so by pulling your wires, cutting a new hole, poking your wires out the new hole and through the Madison box... then pop the Madison box into place.

If you can't move it, pull the wires and cut the nails with a sawsall blade to free the box... cut the existing hole an inch or so higher, and remount with a Madison. (This one takes a bit more skill...)

Patch the old hole, (or the bottom of it in suggestion #2) and you're done.

I've used Madison clips before - pretty easy. I'll think about that idea too - thanks!

How about just turning the mudring so the receptacle is horizontal instead of vertical? That would gain you the distance you need and then some!

I can't tell by the pic, is that a 1900 box and ring or a romex plastic 2x4 box? If it is the latter I would cut the drywall and fix it right!

Madison??? Lol I've always called em jiffy clips. Also, a sander works as well for whittling down a cover plate.

Madison clips?

I've always called them "battle ships" Turn them with bendable legs pointed up and you will see it.

It's a blue plastic nail-on box.