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How to Add an Outdoor Outlet With an Existing Circuit
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Jessica Wrubel has an accomplished background as a writer and copy editor, working for various publications, newspapers and in public libraries assisting with reference, research and special projects. In addition to her journalism experience, she has been educating on health and wellness topics for over 15 years in and outside of the classroom.
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Non-contact voltage tester
Screwdrivers
Hammer Drill
Long 1/4-inch drill bit
3/4-inch drill bit
Metal coat hanger (as needed)
Cable ripper
Wire strippers
NM-B 2-wire cable (14-gauge for a 15-amp circuit; 12-gauge for a 20-amp circuit)
Cable clamps
Wire connectors
Weatherproof outdoor electrical box with an appropriate cover (for surface-mounted applications)
Silicone caulk or exterior sealant
Exterior screws
GFCI receptacle
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Timothy Thiele is an IBEW Local #176 Union Electrician with over 30 years of experience in residential, commercial, and industrial wiring. He has an associate degree in electronics and completed a four-year apprenticeship. He's been writing for The Spruce on residential wiring and home installation projects for over eight years.
Larry Campbell is an electrical contractor with 36 years of experience in residential and light commercial electrical wiring. He worked as an electronic technician and later an engineer for the IBM Corp. is a member of The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board.
Most homes have only a couple of outdoor outlets (electrical receptacles), but adding one can be easier than you might think. Instead of installing a new circuit for the outlet, you may be able to tap into an interior outlet on an existing circuit within the home. This is acceptable if the existing circuit can handle the additional power demand of the new outlet and it is a standard receptacle circuit. You cannot tap into bathroom or kitchen receptacle circuits or into dedicated circuits (those intended for a single appliance or other specific use).
The electrical box for the outdoor outlet must be waterproof and have a cover suitable for the location: If the outlet is protected from direct weather exposure, such as by a porch roof, it must have a weatherproof cover rated for damp locations; if the outlet is directly exposed to the weather and moisture, it must have an "in-use" cover rated for wet locations. Also, all outdoor outlets must have GFCI (ground-fault circuit-interrupter) protection. You can meet this requirement simply by installing a new GFCI outlet.
Note : The new circuit cable and GFCI receptacle must have the same amperage rating as the existing circuit. Use 12-gauge cable and a 20-amp receptacle for a 20-amp circuit; use 14-gauge cable and a 15-amp receptacle for a 15-amp circuit. (On residential installations, the National Electrical Code or NEC does allow 15-amp outlets to be used on 20-amp circuits.)
Identify an interior wall outlet in your home that corresponds to an outdoor location where a new outlet will be most useful. The existing outlet box is most likely fastened to a wall stud; the new outlet should be located on the same side of that stud, in the same stud cavity (space between neighboring studs). This prevents you from having to drill through a stud to run the new circuit cable.
Shut off the power to the existing receptacle circuit by turning off the appropriate circuit breaker in your home's service panel (breaker box).
Check the outlet with a non-contact voltage tester to confirm that the power is off to the circuit, inserting the tester probe into each of the outlet slots. Remove the outlet's cover plate and check all of the wires and outlet terminals for power, using the tester. The tester should indicate no voltage for everything in the electrical box.
Loosen the mounting strap screws on the outlet and pull it out from the electrical box. Disconnect the circuit wires from the receptacle, and remove the receptacle, then bend the wires to the side and out of the way.
Remove a knockout from the back of the box to expose the outer wall, if the box is metal. Pop out the knockout with a hammer and screwdriver. If the box is plastic, you should be able to use one of the existing openings in the box.
Drill a hole through the wall from the interior side to the exterior side, using a drill and a long 1/4-inch-diameter drill bit. You can drill through the knockout hole in the box, if applicable. On the outside of the wall, enlarge the hole, drilling through the siding and sheathing only, using a 3/4-inch bit; this gives you a little more room to work with for the new wiring.
Alternatively, you can drill only a 3/4-inch hole on the outside of the wall (rather than drilling from both sides), aligning the hole with the interior box or locating it very near the box.
Cut a length of NM-B cable to extend from one box to the other, plus at least 8 inches beyond both boxes. Feed the cable through the knockout of the indoor box and through the hole in the wall to the outside.
If you don't have a knockout hole, or if the box locations are not aligned, fish the cable through the wall with a metal coat hanger bent into a hook, inserting the hook through the exterior hole to grab the cable from inside the wall cavity.
Secure the cable to the interior box using a push-in cable clamp or the internal clamp in the box, as applicable.
Cut a 6-inch length of cable from the cable roll (not the installed cable). Use a cable ripper to remove the outer sheathing from the piece of cable, and separate the three wires. Strip 3/4 inch of insulation from both ends of the black and white insulated wires, using wire strippers. The third wire is the bare copper ground wire. You will use these three wires as pigtails to connect the indoor receptacle to the circuit wires.
Strip away about 6 inches of the outer sheathing on the interior end of the newly installed circuit cable. Strip 3/4 inch of insulation from the black and white insulated wires.
Join the black wire from the new circuit cable to the black wire from the existing circuit cable and the black pigtail wire, using an appropriately sized wire connector (wire nut). Do the same with the three white wires, then the three ground wires. If your box already contained two white wires and two black wires, you will join those with the new wires and the pigtails, too, joining a total of four white wires together and four black wires together.
Note : If you have a metal indoor box, there should be a grounding pigtail already attached to the box (all metal boxes must be grounded). Join this pigtail with the two circuit grounds and the new grounding pigtail, connecting all of them with a single wire connector. If there is no grounding pigtail in the box, cut an additional pigtail from the cable roll and connect it to the box's ground screw and the other ground wires and pigtail.
Wire the indoor outlet by connecting the bare copper ground pigtail to the ground screw terminal on the outlet. Connect the white (neutral) pigtail to one of the silver (neutral) terminals on the outlet. Connect the black (hot) pigtail to one of the brass (hot) terminals on the outlet.
Tuck the wires neatly into the electrical box and secure the outlet to the box with the original screws. Reattach the outlet's cover plate.
Remove one of the knockouts on the back of the outdoor electrical box . Feed the new circuit cable through the knockout hole, and secure the cable with a cable clamp. Apply a thick bead of silicone caulk or exterior sealant along the perimeter on the back side of the box. Mount the box to the wall with exterior screws.
Strip away about 6 inches of the outer sheathing from the circuit cable, and strip 3/4 inch of insulation from the black and white insulated wires.
Connect the bare copper ground wire to the green ground screw terminal on the GFCI outlet . Connect the white (neutral) wire to the silver (neutral) terminal marked "LINE" on the outlet. Connect the black (hot) wire to the brass (hot) terminal marked "LINE" on the outlet.
Tuck the wires neatly into the box and secure the outlet to the box using the provided screws. Install the outdoor box cover as directed by the manufacturer.
Note : If the outdoor box is metal, install two grounding pigtails, connecting one to the box and one to the ground screw on the GFCI outlet. Join the pigtails and the circuit ground wire with a wire connector.
Turn on the power to the circuit by switching on its breaker. Test both outlets for voltage, using the voltage tester. Also, test the TEST and RESET buttons on the GFCI outlet, as directed by the manufacturer.
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58 Patio Ideas That Will Make You Want to Live Outside
Kristin Hohenadel is an interior design expert who has covered architecture, interiors, and decor trends for publications including the New York Times, Interior Design, Lonny, and the American and international editions of Elle Decor. She resides in Paris, France, and has traveled to over 30 countries, giving her a global perspective on home design.
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A patio is an essential outdoor space that connects your interior and exterior. Depending on the size and placement of your patio, it can act as both a bridge to the outdoors and an oasis for lounging and entertaining that can be as stylish and comfortable as your interior.
Unlike a raised wood deck , a patio floor is usually covered with poured concrete that might be painted or left unfinished, decorative tiles, or stone. The patio might be covered to provide partial cover from too much sun or rain. Or it might be a large uncovered open space that includes built-in living, dining, lounging, entertainment or kitchen zones. A patio might be made up of a single block of concrete, or stone pavers edged with grass for a contemporary look. Bringing a green element into your patio decor such as landscaping , plants, or even vases filled with branches or flowers from elsewhere in the yard will help make the patio feel integrated into the rest of the outdoor space.
Check out these stylish patios in a range of sizes, layouts, and materials for inspiration on how to build or decorate a stylish outdoor oasis of your own.
This simply stylish patio from Leanne Ford Interiors is a perfect setting for casual meals or outdoor work breaks, with its crisp black-and-white color palette, matching sconce lights and potted plants, a striped rug, and a picnic-style table with metal legs and a warm wood finish.
Design by Mary Patton Design / Photo by Molly Culver
This outdoor patio from Houston-based Mary Patton Design has rough stone pavers that contrast with the white brick exterior of the home. "There are a few fun ways to style your outdoor space," Patton says. "My first tip is to add pops of color, be it in the outdoor chairs, floral arrangements, or other decor. Especially for summer, it seems fitting to utilize bright colors in a space that’s inspired by nature." Here, Patton adds color in the form of a pair of bright yellow folding garden chairs and a navy blue outdoor sconce.
Decorated with vintage garden furniture and unexpected decor touches like an arched mirror and whimsical decorative lighting, this Parisian stone patio from interior designer Vanessa Scoffier at Hotel Henriette is dreamy, magical. and chic. Vintage touches like painted aluminum pitchers as vases add a timeless appeal, and a mixture of plants and flowers that are landscaped to look spontaneous and not too manicured adds charm.
Design by Calimia Home / Photo by Jeanne Canto
This pale stone slab patio from Calimia Home has modern light wood furnishings and contrasting dark wood fencing and pergola festooned with string lights and climbing vines that add contrast.
A large brick patio on the backside of this modern farmhouse from My 100 Year Old Home is designed for large gatherings of friends and family, with three separate but linked zones that accommodate a sitting area, living room, and outdoor kitchen and bar area.
This outdoor patio from Fantastic Frank has a rattan cover and billowing white gauze curtains around the periphery to shield harsh rays and add a sense of privacy and intimacy. Warm woods and natural textures complement the patio flooring, and a few black accents add structure to the overall design.
This tranquil patio from Breeze Giannasio Interiors has ample seating in pale weathered gray tones that harmonize with the stone and encourage gathering and conversation in the lush zen-like setting.
Design by Thomas Guy Interiors / Photo by Haylei Smith
This outdoor patio from interior designer Lance Thomas of Thomas Guy Interiors is visible from the interior space thanks to a wall of glass and metal framed doors, making it vital that the outdoor be as smartly decorated as the indoors. Dark stained wide plank hardwood flooring inside is contrasted with pale stone on the exterior. In an outdoor space, Thomas suggests using weather-friendly materials and fabrics for durability, such as eco-friendly rattan. And he likes to always incorporate greenery such as banana leaf trees and orchids "to add a touch of nature," adding that "high-design planters can be a creative way to show off one’s own personal style."
If you have more front yard than back yard, consider installing a deconstructed patio in your front yard instead. This small front patio from Brophy Interiors has stone slabs that match the front walkway, plus a circular firepit and two lounge chairs, while the nearby small front porch is finished with wood.
This outdoor patio from Laquita Tate Interior Styling and Design has living and dining areas decorated in a black, gray, and orange palette that complements the brick walls of the home and showcases the surrounding greenery. A pergola in a dark wood stain adds structure to the outdoor space, and natural woven pendant lights help to define the living room and dining room zones.
Design by Manscapers / Photo by Dane Tashima
This comfortable and spacious NYC backyard from Manscapers has both a spacious patio and a wood deck that helps define the spaces and adds dimension the deep rectangular space. The patio area is equipped with a sectional, extra poufs, and a firepit. The stone patio transitions into a slightly raised outdoor wood deck that houses a spacious dining table and chairs. A trio of glass and metal hurricane lamp candle holders posed casually on each side of the steps is a nice touch that looks even better at night.
Design by House of One / Photo by Lifestyle Production Group
Southern Florida-based interior designer Brittany Farinas of House of One has a maximalist approach to tropical modernism. Here she added a pair of half-circle sofas to a concrete paver patio, shaded by a wood-ceilinged cover equipped with built-in ceiling fans that keeps it shady and can manufacture a breeze on sweltering days. Farinas suggests adding colorful and textural pillows to outdoor spaces that echo your interior decor to create cohesion. And one of her favorite moves when designing outdoor spaces is to incorporate a water feature, such as a freestanding waterfall fountain. "It will make one’s space feel serene with the calming sounds of the water," she says.
Design by Mary Patton Design / Photo by Molly Culver
This outdoor patio from Mary Patton Design has clean lines, white furnishings, and a pair of pale pink flamingo statues that add a fun and kitschy surprise element.
Design by Emily Henderson Design / Photo Tessa Neustadt
While it is easy to default to neutrals when designing an outdoor space, even the slightest use of color can add a surprising lift and energy to the design, like the blue-and-white tiled flooring on this spacious outdoor patio form Emily Henderson Design .
This backyard dining space has a lived-in feel, with a brick patio , a mix of concrete planters, and a large dining table with a scrolled base.
A vintage French outdoor fountain on this Parisian patio at the Hotel Henriette adds charm and can be used as a planter or a bird bath.
This striking back patio from A Beautiful Mess features a simple but effective DIY painted concrete floor in a graphic design that is packed with personality and style.
This casual chic outdoor living room patio space from Blanco Bungalow has the same modern boho style as the indoors, with neutral colors and a mix of seating, accessories, and plants. A white painted brick wall gives the outdoor space a contemporary feel that complements the bright white wire-based coffee table and side table stools.
This patio dining space from Breeze Giannasio Interiors has a graphic quality thanks to a mix of black-and-white finishes, furniture, textiles, and decorative objects. A dramatic striped awning and gathered curtains adds a theatrical and slightly retro formal touch.
Design by Emily Henderson Design / Photo by David Tsay Home of Shanna Fest
This lush outdoor patio from Emily Henderson Design has comfortable furniture, a statement fireplace, a pergola laced with string lights, and boho style touches like a kilim pouf.
This Portland garage conversion guest cottage from Arbor & Co. has an outdoor patio living and dining room covered by a wood A-frame roof that makes outdoor living possible even in rainy weather, and doubles the square footage of the modest space.
This all-white back patio from A Beautiful Mess gets a cheerful mood boost thanks to a DIY paint job on the patio floor in wide pastel rainbow stripes.
This outdoor patio from Fantastic Frank has a Euro-style gravel floor. A pair of patterned indoor outdoor rugs softens the outdoor living room space while adding color, and a sculptural stone coffee table and sleek gray-and-black seating adds sophistication to the outdoor space.
A pair of stone paver patios create a distinct place for the sitting area and firepit and adjacent dining area in this backyard from Mindy Gayer Design Co.
This outdoor patio terrace from Fantastic Frank is located off a city apartment bedroom in Mallorca. With warm brick flooring, vintage-style rattan furniture , pale blue and white textiles, and a high wall for privacy, it's the perfect spot for a morning coffee or a nightcap under the stars.
This vast outdoor patio from Mindy Gayer Design Co. unifies the back yard entertaining space, which is divided into zones for sitting, dining, and lounging by the pool.
This Portland, Oregon patio design from BASE
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