Description
This innovative DXF template provides fabricators with precise specifications for a 6-inch tall by 48-inch wide stone backsplash featuring both a standard electrical outlet cutout and a specialized notch for under-cabinet lighting wiring. This combination design addresses the common kitchen requirement for both power access and integrated task lighting, allowing under-cabinet light fixture wiring to pass through the backsplash cleanly while maintaining an outlet for appliance use. The wire notch is typically positioned along the top edge of the backsplash where it will be concealed by the underside of upper cabinets, creating a professional, cord-free appearance for under-cabinet lighting installations.
Dimensions
- Overall Width
- 48"
Specifications
- Downloads
- 0
Related Templates
This innovative DXF template provides fabricators with precise specifications for a 6-inch tall by 48-inch wide stone backsplash featuring both a standard electrical outlet cutout and a specialized notch for under-cabinet lighting wiring. This combination design addresses the common kitchen requirement for both power access and integrated task lighting, allowing under-cabinet light fixture wiring to pass through the backsplash cleanly while maintaining an outlet for appliance use. The wire notch is typically positioned along the top edge of the backsplash where it will be concealed by the underside of upper cabinets, creating a professional, cord-free appearance for under-cabinet lighting installations.
Installation Overview
The outlet-plus-undercabinet configuration serves modern kitchens where integrated task lighting is desired without visible wiring or surface-mounted conduit. This design is particularly popular in kitchen renovations and new construction where LED under-cabinet lighting provides workspace illumination. The outlet cutout provides standard power access for small appliances, while the top-edge notch allows low-voltage or line-voltage lighting wiring to pass from the outlet (or a separate junction box) behind the backsplash to under-cabinet light fixtures mounted above. Before fabrication, coordinate with both the electrician and cabinet installer to determine exact positioning for the wire notch - it must align with cabinet layout and lighting fixture locations. The wire notch is typically a small rectangular or semicircular cutout along the top edge, sized to accommodate wiring and connector assemblies without excessive gap that would be visible. During installation, route lighting wiring through the notch before securing the backsplash, position the backsplash to align the outlet cutout with its electrical box, verify level, and install using thin-set mortar or construction adhesive. After the backsplash is secured and upper cabinets are installed, the cabinet bottom conceals the wire notch entirely, creating a clean integrated appearance.
CNC Cutting Notes
Import this DXF file into your CNC router or waterjet system. The template includes a standard rectangular outlet cutout plus a wire notch positioned along the top edge of the backsplash. The wire notch is typically much smaller than the outlet opening - just large enough to pass lighting wiring and connectors, usually 1/2 to 1 inch tall and 1-2 inches wide depending on the specific lighting system being installed. Before cutting, verify both the outlet cutout position and the wire notch location with actual field measurements - the wire notch must align with cabinet layout and lighting placement. Secure the stone properly with support across the full 48-inch length. Program tool paths to cut both the outlet opening and wire notch before cutting the perimeter. The wire notch, being positioned at the edge, requires careful programming to prevent breakout or chipping - consider using ramped entry and slower feed rates when approaching the edge. For CNC router operations, use diamond bits appropriate for your stone and employ water cooling throughout the cut. The wire notch may have rounded corners or a semicircular profile to minimize stress concentration at the top edge. For waterjet cutting, maintain consistent parameters throughout all cuts. After cutting, inspect the wire notch area carefully for any edge chipping or irregularities, as this edge will be somewhat visible until cabinets are installed.
Material Compatibility
This template works with all standard countertop materials including granite, marble, quartzite, engineered quartz, solid surface, and ultra-compact materials. The combination of outlet cutout and top-edge wire notch creates two separate penetrations, so material selection should prioritize structural integrity. We recommend 2cm or 3cm material thickness, with 3cm preferred for added strength around the outlet and at the wire notch location. Engineered quartz is an excellent choice due to uniform strength throughout, which is particularly important at the top edge where the wire notch reduces material thickness. Granite and quartzite with consistent grain structure also perform well. When working with natural stone featuring prominent veining, orient the template to avoid running major veins through the outlet area or adjacent to the top-edge wire notch, as veins can create weak planes. The wire notch at the top edge makes that area more vulnerable to edge chipping during handling, so extra care is required. For materials like marble or softer stones, consider the top-edge notch location carefully and handle with particular attention to that area during fabrication and installation.
Where to Buy
Professional fabricators can source suitable materials from local stone suppliers, regional distributors, and national wholesalers such as MSI, Arizona Tile, Daltile, and Bedrosians. For this template, select materials with good edge strength since the wire notch reduces top-edge material. This template works with material currently in stock. For homeowners seeking custom fabrication with integrated under-cabinet lighting provisions, contact local countertop fabricators or kitchen remodeling contractors who specialize in modern kitchen installations. Explain both the outlet requirement and the under-cabinet lighting plan so they can properly coordinate the wire notch positioning with your cabinet layout. Most professionals can complete fabrication within 1-2 weeks. Installation pricing typically ranges from $50-250+ per square foot depending on material selection. Under-cabinet lighting fixtures and wiring components are available from lighting showrooms, kitchen specialty retailers, home improvement stores, and online suppliers - popular brands include Kichler, Liteline, WAC Lighting, and Hera for hardwired systems, with numerous LED options from GE, Philips, and others.