How applicable are kurtosis-corrections for noise impact assessments across marine mammal functional hearing groups? Take extra care during cold weather: If you strike the box itself in low temperatures, the box could shatter or break. Test to make sure the old-work box fits in the hole. Whether you're looking for a step-by-step guide on fixing an appliance or the cost of installing a fence, we've here to help. Screws can be installed through mounting holes in one side of the box. Thanks Bert - can you post a picture of what I should look for? They are also very hard. Here the plastic one costs a few cents more and isn't available in every store. There are no precise code guidelines for how high wall switches or outlet boxes should be positioned. plastic boxes are of a more flexible kind, and don't cracky that easily. bvseo-msg: The resource to the URL or file is currently unavailable. Often, electricians report a simple stainless steel screw with a washer attached works better than a hex-head screw used to meet code requirements. Nearby, there was a much pricier fiberglass box that came with metal tabs. You are using an out of date browser. Home Improvement Stack Exchange is a question and answer site for contractors and serious DIYers. Cannot cross-thread or strip a mounting screw. Whichever clamping method the box uses, -inch of sheathing should show inside the box. I recently used one for a utility outlet changing my dryer from three prong to four prong just to keep Harper happy :-) The box had very little flex and that was eliminated with the cover. My father-in-law loves to screw those to the joist and they take to it decently well. Undefined behavior (according to clang -fsanitize=integer) on libstdc++ std::random due to negative index on Mersenne Twister engine. If the drywall or plaster is damaged, cut a larger hole and install a box that attaches directly to a stud or joist. 
She is a writer and editor with nearly a decade of interior design education and expertise. Some boxes have built-in clamps for securing cable, or you might need to purchase cable connectors.Nail-on plastic electrical boxes are affordable and easy to use. A variation on this has side clamps that move out and toward the front as screws are tightened. Electricity can be dangerous, and working with the wrong screw material can inadvertently damage an electrical box or conduct electricity incorrectly. 314.23(B)(1) Nails and Screws. You are required to use that box that way, or not at all. It is difficult to make a neat hole in plaster and lath, so have patching plaster ($5, Walmart) on hand. The screw is typically a 10-32 size and is 5/16 inches long. Remember, though, that plastic screws may not have the rigidity and longevity as metal screws. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Why was there only a single Falcon 9 landing on ground-pad in 2021? Usually, screws are metal, but sometimes plastic screws are made for specialized applications. I need to install a shallower depth 2-gang box for a range as part of kitchen renovation (50A, 240V, 4-wire feed). So ensuring it is free of any Do You Need Electricial Wiring or Panel Upgrade Services? approved means to avoid abrasion of conductor insulation. I'm sorry you're not allowed to attach boxes this way. When working with electrical boxes, most electricians recommend using 32 threads for every inch of the screw. They can be purchased as a simple 2-pack or purchased in bulk for larger home products. Installing these handy boxes only takes about 15 minutes and they give you the freedom to decorate your space exactly how you want. Which of the following is true when installing a metal switch box? Make several passes with a sharp knife. 
Steel is good. Below is a preview of Article 314. Note that the face of the box extends out 1/2-inch from stud to allow for drywall. +1. The purpose/advantage of an old work box is that you use it where there is no stud to attach to. Self, never enter one of mike93lx's buildings. You need to use a plaster ring to bring the outlet flush to your finished drywall. For a ceiling fan or a heavy light fixture, buy a fixture box that attaches to a fan-rated brace. To learn more, see our tips on writing great answers. Don't forget, you have to ground the metal box with a #8 pigtail, from your ground in the cable, then to the outlet. Screws are NOT permitted to be run through holes in the back of the box. I'm interested in replacing an existing outlet (in a wall that's finished with drywall) with a two-gang duplex (four outlets total), using an "old work" box. I quite agree "to the drywall" is a bad deal and will not withstand ordinary stresses of wrestling a 3-prong socket out of a new, quality (stiff) receptacle socket. Practice first because it is hard to control. Most metal switchboxes have holes at the rear corners where you could drive nails through to the stud. Whatever standard you choose, try to maintain uniformity for all electrical boxes. The tabs bind it to the drywall. Really, in a metal box you attach your cables' ground wires to the box first and push them all the way into the back of the box, and never touch them again. In some areas you can just buy metal old work boxes if you don't want plastic, which likely cost less than this super fancy fibreglass one I've never seen. Plastic nail-in electrical boxes may have3/8-inch measuring tabs along the sides. Mounting holes made in the field shall be approved. He appeared for 3 seasons on HGTVs The Fix, and served as MSNs home expert for several years. The 1/8 inch holes punched into the sides of most metal boxes are near the front of the box. This means you cannot simply add mounting points anywhere on the box. Can be used for steel, aluminum, or wood studs. Irregular box heights will flag a home'selectrical work as that of an amateur. The gauge measurement determines the diameter of the screw itself. I use those boxes all the time,there's nothing wrong with using drywall screws on wood studs,that's what they're made for. Installing electrical boxes is one of the first stages in electrical rough-in work. Don't ask me how I know this! or by using mounting holes in the back or in a single side of the enclosure. Most residential drywall is 1/2- or 3/8-inchthick, so keep a handful of drywall strips of this thickness on hand to facilitate electrical box installation. Screws are versatile, and there are many materials they can be made of. Thanks for the mudring info. Single-Gang Steel-Stud Box with Quick/Click and Captive Combo Head Self-Tapping Mounting Screws on Each End. Anyway, I'm just not used to seeing metal electric boxes. Run cable through the hole. The box will simply crack there, either from the violence of a self-drilling screw, or the stress points from a drilled hole clamped by a tightened screw, or the physical strain of people wrestling plugs out of a stiff socket. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. link to How To Keep Centipedes Out Of Your Bed, How To Connect PVC Conduit To An Electrical Box (Do This! Mounting screw threads exposed inside a box are permitted without protection. Then cut 2 pieces of 1/2" plywood about 2" x 8" or so. Youll want to use a 6-32 screw to attach your exterior outlet. Remember, though, that while this setup may function safely, it will not pass electrical code. Can be installed on steel studs with most standard crimping tools in addition to CT1 Crimping Tool. of the back or ends of the Of course, consider that many exterior outlets are placed in extra-thick walls that may add depth to your application. There's an old saying about opinions,everybody is entitled to 1. Select boxes that meet local codes. The screw head can be either Philips or slotted screw, but usually, a slotted screw is the electricians preferred type. Technically speaking, to meet code, a ground screw must be identifiably green in color to alert other homeowners and electricians that the screw is the ground. For instance, you might discover that an adapter plate will be helpful in the process of mounting a particular new box. While more extended screw options are available in the 6-32 inch size, you never want to use something longer than two inches to attach an electrical box. Around here they use galvanized steel roofing nails to attach boxes to studs. of the back or ends of the enclosure. Why are the products of Grignard reaction on an alpha-chiral ketone diastereomers rather than a racemate? How to Set Standard Outlet and Light Switch Heights, Old Work Electrical Boxes vs. New Work Electrical Boxes, 5 Handy Electrical Remodeling Tricks and Tips, How to Replace a Load-Bearing Wall With a Support Beam, How to Install an Old Work Electrical Box in an Existing Wall, When to Use a Plastic or Metal Electrical Box, How to Add an Outdoor Outlet With an Existing Circuit. Having to ground metal boxes is more advantage than disadvantage as they come with 2 or more ground screws, each of which can fasten 2 ground wires, so you often don't need a wire nut or Wago and you get some free box volume as a result. Always be sure to use stainless steel screws when working with electricity. These standard metal boxes have been secured by driving self-tapping screws through the 1/8-inch diameter mounting holes in the side of the box and into the horizontal metal stud. this sounds like new construction so why not use a metal box that has the spot welded ears on it?. Why did the Federal reserve balance sheet capital drop by 32% in Dec 2015? HomeTips. Like other electrical screws, you will want to use a 6-32 screw for the electrical outlet. HomeTips articles may contain links to Amazon.com and other partner programs that provide helpful products and services. Supports. I really haven't had any issue even with those boxes. 3-1/2 and 4" are deck screws with a T25 head, but a one pound box will last me about a year. Can the difference of two bounded decreasing functions oscillate? The most common size screw to use in an electric box is a 6-32 flathead screw. Of course, I've got plaster & lath walls, so it's stiffer than just drywall, but, depending on exactly where the box hits, there's a fair bit of play available if it's just plaster supporting the ears. ). Note the nails in the the mounting bracket or the flat flanges. ; loc_en_US, sid_S118RS, prod, sort_[SortEntry(order=LAST_APPROVED_ANSWER_SUBMISSION_TIME, direction=DESCENDING)]. Making statements based on opinion; back them up with references or personal experience. We do not sell them separate but the size and threads are SCREW, HW/PHI, 6-18 X 3.250, CRS, BLACK. This generally means mounting them so they extend 1/2 inch beyond the face of the wall studs if 1/2-inch-thick drywall will cover the wall studs. Keep in mind that typical room electrical receptacles should be placed a consistent 12 to 18 inches above the floor. Some electricians stop just short of driving the mounting nails completely into the studs. Can Romex (NM-B) be run in conduit for more than 10 ft when starting from the breaker panel? Don founded HomeTips in 1996. Electrical boxes typically are mounted to the sides of studs for stability. This outlet type features an extended electrical box to help accommodate the added thickness. As an Amazon Associate, HomeTips earns from qualifying purchases which allows us to continue creating helpful DIY content. What happens if a debt is denominated in something that does not have a clear value? Many (most?) It appears from another forum that this might violate electrical codes. This is the same size as the old work box but allows you to screw directly into the stud. Screws can be driven through mounting holes in two sides of the box. Did it once, never again. interior within 6 mm (1/4 in.) This allows the box to be easily removed should the layout need to be changed before the NM cable installation. outside of the enclosure, or they shall pass through the I will look at offerings at the blue and orange stores. Lee has over two decades of hands-on experience remodeling, fixing, and improving homes, and has been providing home improvement advice for over 12 years. Make sure to keep your blows perpendicular to the stud. Cut to the inside of the knife cut to prevent fraying the paper. By clicking Post Your Answer, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy. (1) Nails and Screws. Screw diameters are available in a range of sizes to accommodate different projects. Don Vandervort, HomeTips. If you want to 'freestyle' mountings like this, it's time to move over to steel boxes. Is it okay to protect NM Cable in an unfinished basement with ENT? In general, if you can screw into the stud, you don't use an old work box. Also, avoid placing a switch box on the hinge side of a door opening; you want the switch to be readily accessible upon opening the door. Follow our step-by-step instructions for installing an electrical box in drywall. All Rights Reserved. When you install an electrical box, make sure it is flush with the surface of this drywall strip; this will ensure the boxes are at the proper depth when the walls are finished. Using old-work electrical boxes is one way to hover the boxes between studs. If you use improper attachment points that are not gusseted, the box will at the least flex and shift, meaning your box is moving around while you wrestle plugs in/out of a stiff socket. This post may contain affiliate links. Then, with either a manual Phillips screwdriver or a cordless drill/driver, you turn the two screws clockwise. However, using any 8-32 screw with a washer will work as a ground for functionalitys sake. of the back or ends of the enclosure. (B) Structural Mounting. In Canada boxes come with holes to screw to studs, both inside and outside the box. Length is an important measurement, especially when it comes to working with electrical boxes. 2-1/8-Inch Deep and note where the bracket is - The face of the box is designed to be flush with the face of the drywall. I don't have a problem with drywall screws, but I haven't used them in over 20 years. To subscribe to this RSS feed, copy and paste this URL into your RSS reader. Stack Exchange network consists of 181 Q&A communities including Stack Overflow, the largest, most trusted online community for developers to learn, share their knowledge, and build their careers. Strip 8 to 12 inches of sheathing and run the cable into the box. For spaces used by people with accessibility issues requiring a wheelchair, for example, lower switch heights might be practical. Many residential homes have exterior outlet boxes, which create a safe and convenient way to add power and electricity to the outdoors. I use a slightly deeper ring than what is normally used ( ie: 5/8" raised ring for 1/2" drywall, 3/4" ring for 5/8" drywall ). In new construction, attaching a strip of drywall to the front face of studs can serve as a guide for attaching wall boxes. Box with flangenail the flange to the side of an exposed stud or joist, aligning the front so that it will be flush with the finished ceiling or wall. This four-gang box is designed to hole four switches or receptacles. For more information see our disclosures, Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner Buying & Installing, How to Get Your Home Ready for Overnight Guests, Smart Devices Protect Your Home During Power Outages &. Steel has the strength to allow you to drill holes where you please and use them for mounting screws. How can one check whether tax money is being effectively used by the government for improving a nation? How to achieve full scale deflection on a 30A ammeter with 5V voltage? Get daily tips and tricks for making your best home. Still, though, I think my solution would result in a more rigid mount.the question then becomes, how important is a bit of flex vs. the additional time and effort of my solution. Quick/Entry: feature speeds installation by eliminating need for tools, allows you to push stripped or unstripped non-metallic cable into a single gang plastic box without removing knockouts. The ground screw is essential for a safe electrical box. For larger or heavier applications, you may need to use multiple electrical screws to support the weight. why screw into the box, why not screw from inside the box out into the stud using zip screw? Always be sure to use a stainless steel electrical screw for exterior applications. Asking for help, clarification, or responding to other answers. Whether you are upgrading the electrical system in an old home or planning your electrical needs for new construction, it helps to draw out your plans on paper. Junction boxes are not to have additional holes drilled into them for securing them to studs. Screws shall not be permitted to pass through the box unless exposed threads in the box are protected using approved means to avoid abrasion of conductor insulation. NEC 110.3(B). Before you buy electrical boxes, you want to be certain they have the right mounting holes for the devices you plan to install. The revised text now permits running nails or screws through mounting holes in the back or in a single side of the enclosure. Why does \hspace{50mm} not exactly add 50 mm of horizontal space? While these screws may fit the needed application, they can do more harm than good and potentially damage your electrical boxes. See the actual NEC text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. I have used your solution many times but added a few drywall screw so I didn't have to wait for the glue to dry. This screw has a slightly larger diameter which makes it better suited for ceiling applications. Home Theater Connections & Cable Management, Wall Switch Occupancy and Vacancy Sensors, Wire Mesh Mounting, Dropouts and Accessories, Ladder Mounting, Dropouts and Accessories, Industrial Heavy-Duty Spec Grade Switches, Report Suspected Connected Device Vulnerability. How do I fix an outlet where the junction box falls into the hole and the wires are too short? This will keep the box from twisting or deflecting as you attach it. ), How To Hide An Electrical Box In The Front Yard (Do This! I've had no problems with either outlets or switches feeling wobbly. Mounting holes made in the field shall be approved. The box you have shown can be used and mounted fairly secure if you take the time to cut the opening as small as possible so the box tabs have more drywall to support it. Two Quick/Entries on each end. Follow these easy tips to make sure your electrical box installations look professional and meet code requirements. You want to avoid using drywall screws and sheet metal screws. To attach a recessed outlet, usually a 6-32 1.5 inch length screw should work perfectly. Then a truss-head or pan-head screw, maybe even with a washer to spread out the pressure. +, @GeorgeAnderson I think these are relatively new on the market as I don't remember seeing them when I was working. If you are simply replacing an electrical box or have lost the original screws, you may need to purchase new screws to attach your electrical box safely. Most commonly, a #6 gauge is used for electrical boxes and other electrical work. Before you get started, plan the job carefully, as running cable through walls covered with drywall or plaster can be difficult. Your other option of course is to simply cut out the sheetrock from one stud to the other, install a new work box and repair the sheet rock, but I don't think that's what you want to do. Determining the correct size and type of electrical screw can be difficult, though, especially with so many screw options available on the market. For heavier applications, like ceiling lighting and ceiling fans, an 8-32 screw will work better. Your bed is the place in your home that should bring you the most peace, tranquility, and comfort. Partially because there's a shortage, I couldn't buy a 2-gang old work plastic blue box like the one you pictured in the question. Then use a box with plaster ears (flanges) using them to screw into the sheetrock/plywood. sign in for electrical continuing education courses. If you have an area of a thicker wall than usual, a recessed outlet may have to be used. If plaster is attached to metal lath, cut all the way through the plaster with a knife and then cut the metal lath with side cutters. Screws shall not be permitted to pass through the Nail-on electrical wall boxbutt this box against a wall stud and nail it on.Nail-on electrical wall box is quick and fast to nail in place. Site design / logo 2022 Stack Exchange Inc; user contributions licensed under CC BY-SA. Thanks for contributing an answer to Home Improvement Stack Exchange! For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. You are using an out of date browser. Agreed. The only downside with ordering screws online is waiting for delivery, which can be problematic if you are in the middle of an active project. By clicking Accept all cookies, you agree Stack Exchange can store cookies on your device and disclose information in accordance with our Cookie Policy. Since the holes in the sides of most metal boxes are near the front, many inspectors would not allow them as mounting holes. These dimensions are set by codes. The next step up from there would be a metal box, but that might require clamps and other things to get the wire safely in (plus you need to bond metal boxes). Without some kind of guide, it can be difficult to install the boxes with the proper offset to ensure the front edges of the electrical boxes will be flush with the finished drywall surface. But they have always passed inspection. Was a common method in the past and still used today. JavaScript is disabled. Southwire Smart Box 2-Gang Adjustable Depth Device Box #MSB2G. Lastly, the length of the screw is given in the screw description. I installed a number of double- and triple-gang boxes like that when we initially updated the wiring in our house. Alternatively use a rotary cutter equipped with a plaster-cutting bit. Ensuring your electrical box has a ground screw is essential for a safe installation and application. If you want to talk about electrical code, you have to talk about where you live. It is also possible to buy electrical screws from online retailers like Amazon. Often, youll see more options for sizes and materials, and packages will be sold in larger bulk quantities online. Nails and screws, where used as a rev2022.7.29.42699. Also be sure the boxes have correctly placed knockout holes for routing cable in and out. You can use these to indicate how far to extend the electrical box from the face of the studs. But, what happens if the ground screw options available do not fit or wont work? Press the saw firmly against the wall to minimize lath vibration. I stopped buying drywall screws for 2 reasons: Put me in the 'drywall screws are brittle' camp. This number is always given after the gauge of the screw. Ground screws in electrical boxes are always 10-32 and must be painted visibly green. When the cover plate is covering an empty outlet box, a one-inch length can be used. That in turn can result in cracking at the stress points added through drilling. 100 pack. The tabs will put the box outside of the required roughin location. Tighten the screw until you feel resistance and the box is firmly attached. Old-work boxes attach directly to the drywall, not to the studs. Determining how much weight your screws can be essential to ensure your electrical box is held securely and safely. If it does vibrate as you saw, sections of plaster can loosen from the lath. Usually, the ground screw is thicker with a hex head and is painted green. Is it acceptable to retrofit a new-work plastic electrical box by screwing through it into a stud? A face cover plate is the part of an electrical construct that covers the electrical outlet or switch to keep it safely protected inside the wall. Really not the right box for what you're trying to do. I don't see the importance of the distance from back of the box. I'd find another way. Remember that the deeper recessed box will also require longer screws than usual to attach the face cover plate as well. Plastic is not metal. In other general, blue plastic boxes - ugh. Next, the threads per inch measurement determines how many individual threads exist in a one-inch screw shaft. Larry Campbell is an electrical contractor with 36 years of experience in residential and light commercial electrical wiring. Nightstands are valuable pieces of your bedrooms design, adding both form and function to the space. It's probably too late for you, but take a look at page A8 of the hubbel box catalog (here: Joist hanger screws are nice but expensive as hell. That's a big splice. Checking with AHJ never hurts as they always have final say. Debatable, but you can buy old work boxes with that designed into them. The previous employer was big on using phillips head deck screws, which I continued to use up until a year or so ago. Boxes, whether metal or nonmetallic, should be simple and straightforward to mount using one of the following techniques: Screw-on handy boxattach this box directly to the framing. Usually, a 6-32 electrical screw can support about 12 pounds. Lightweight fixtures can hold up on plaster or drywall if you have a remodel electrical box ($2, The Home Depot). There's no issue with plastic boxes, ignore the vague FUD about them in the first comment. That works too. Face cover places usually use slightly different electrical screws that have an oval shape, flat head. I would imagine the fiberglass hard shell variety would not fare so well. He worked as an electronic technician and later an engineer for the IBM Corp. is a member of The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board. The way this is worded "pass through" the box makes me think of an old installation style where long nails or screws were driven right through the box and into the stud, which is a huge pain to work around, but also easier to remove for rework than external fasteners. Find out what size screws you can use for inch cement board. Cut the hole with a drywall saw. fastening means, shall be attached by using brackets on the Quick/Click: feature for fast, easy, secure installations. Thanks JACK. Lisa F. Young / Shutterstock.com. A better solution is to get a box similar to the one below with side screws already included to be mounted to the stud. Drywall screws are the best thing since sliced bread. Adjustable hanger barwhen a ceiling box spans two joists, this two-piece bar can be narrowed or expanded to fit the space between them. 314.23(B)(1) Nails and Screws. If you were to have any wobble, it would most likely be on the end away from the stud anyway, and your screws wouldn't help that. These screws will commonly be 6-32 and be about 5/16 inches in length. having anything pointy/sharp inside the box, even with a thread cover, seems like trouble waiting to happen. Personally I don't really like those boxes at all. In the 2017 NEC, that issue has been corrected and now the intent of the section is clear. Get a Pre-Screened Local Electrical Wiring Contractor. You screw them down tight, say the box, and they are apt to fracture because they will not bend or stretch. Yet another type (right) uses separate mounting brackets that slide in after the box is inserted and bend over the sides of the box to lock it in place. I'd mark the holes and pre-drill because if you bust out the plywood, you'll have a real mess on your hands! But professionals follow certain standards for a uniform look. Caitlin graduated with a bachelor of journalism, with an emphasis in magazine editing, as well as a minor in textile and apparel management from the University of Missouri-Columbia. How do people live in bunkers & not go crazy with boredom? In most residential areas, the screw must be very clearly painted green to pass the electrical code. How gamebreaking is this magic item that can reduce casting times? Not sure what the code book says. If so, is there a better way to support old work boxes than just relying on the drywall tabs? Force LaTeX to ignore unknown Unicode characters. Pancake boxwhile this application has nothing to do with breakfast, its ease of installment makes it an option you might just flip over. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2017 NEC edition of NFPA 70. This type of box has wings that extend outward when you start to drive the screw, then grasp the back of the drywall as the screw is tightened.
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She is a writer and editor with nearly a decade of interior design education and expertise. Some boxes have built-in clamps for securing cable, or you might need to purchase cable connectors.Nail-on plastic electrical boxes are affordable and easy to use. A variation on this has side clamps that move out and toward the front as screws are tightened. Electricity can be dangerous, and working with the wrong screw material can inadvertently damage an electrical box or conduct electricity incorrectly. 314.23(B)(1) Nails and Screws. You are required to use that box that way, or not at all. It is difficult to make a neat hole in plaster and lath, so have patching plaster ($5, Walmart) on hand. The screw is typically a 10-32 size and is 5/16 inches long. Remember, though, that plastic screws may not have the rigidity and longevity as metal screws. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Why was there only a single Falcon 9 landing on ground-pad in 2021? Usually, screws are metal, but sometimes plastic screws are made for specialized applications. I need to install a shallower depth 2-gang box for a range as part of kitchen renovation (50A, 240V, 4-wire feed). So ensuring it is free of any Do You Need Electricial Wiring or Panel Upgrade Services? approved means to avoid abrasion of conductor insulation. I'm sorry you're not allowed to attach boxes this way. When working with electrical boxes, most electricians recommend using 32 threads for every inch of the screw. They can be purchased as a simple 2-pack or purchased in bulk for larger home products. Installing these handy boxes only takes about 15 minutes and they give you the freedom to decorate your space exactly how you want. Which of the following is true when installing a metal switch box? Make several passes with a sharp knife. Steel is good. Below is a preview of Article 314. Note that the face of the box extends out 1/2-inch from stud to allow for drywall. +1. The purpose/advantage of an old work box is that you use it where there is no stud to attach to. Self, never enter one of mike93lx's buildings. You need to use a plaster ring to bring the outlet flush to your finished drywall. For a ceiling fan or a heavy light fixture, buy a fixture box that attaches to a fan-rated brace. To learn more, see our tips on writing great answers. Don't forget, you have to ground the metal box with a #8 pigtail, from your ground in the cable, then to the outlet. Screws are NOT permitted to be run through holes in the back of the box. I'm interested in replacing an existing outlet (in a wall that's finished with drywall) with a two-gang duplex (four outlets total), using an "old work" box. I quite agree "to the drywall" is a bad deal and will not withstand ordinary stresses of wrestling a 3-prong socket out of a new, quality (stiff) receptacle socket. Practice first because it is hard to control. Most metal switchboxes have holes at the rear corners where you could drive nails through to the stud. Whatever standard you choose, try to maintain uniformity for all electrical boxes. The tabs bind it to the drywall. Really, in a metal box you attach your cables' ground wires to the box first and push them all the way into the back of the box, and never touch them again. In some areas you can just buy metal old work boxes if you don't want plastic, which likely cost less than this super fancy fibreglass one I've never seen. Plastic nail-in electrical boxes may have3/8-inch measuring tabs along the sides. Mounting holes made in the field shall be approved. He appeared for 3 seasons on HGTVs The Fix, and served as MSNs home expert for several years. The 1/8 inch holes punched into the sides of most metal boxes are near the front of the box. This means you cannot simply add mounting points anywhere on the box. Can be used for steel, aluminum, or wood studs. Irregular box heights will flag a home'selectrical work as that of an amateur. The gauge measurement determines the diameter of the screw itself. I use those boxes all the time,there's nothing wrong with using drywall screws on wood studs,that's what they're made for. Installing electrical boxes is one of the first stages in electrical rough-in work. Don't ask me how I know this! or by using mounting holes in the back or in a single side of the enclosure. Most residential drywall is 1/2- or 3/8-inchthick, so keep a handful of drywall strips of this thickness on hand to facilitate electrical box installation. Screws are versatile, and there are many materials they can be made of. Thanks for the mudring info. Single-Gang Steel-Stud Box with Quick/Click and Captive Combo Head Self-Tapping Mounting Screws on Each End. Anyway, I'm just not used to seeing metal electric boxes. Run cable through the hole. The box will simply crack there, either from the violence of a self-drilling screw, or the stress points from a drilled hole clamped by a tightened screw, or the physical strain of people wrestling plugs out of a stiff socket. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. link to How To Keep Centipedes Out Of Your Bed, How To Connect PVC Conduit To An Electrical Box (Do This! Mounting screw threads exposed inside a box are permitted without protection. Then cut 2 pieces of 1/2" plywood about 2" x 8" or so. Youll want to use a 6-32 screw to attach your exterior outlet. Remember, though, that while this setup may function safely, it will not pass electrical code. Can be installed on steel studs with most standard crimping tools in addition to CT1 Crimping Tool. of the back or ends of the Of course, consider that many exterior outlets are placed in extra-thick walls that may add depth to your application. There's an old saying about opinions,everybody is entitled to 1. Select boxes that meet local codes. The screw head can be either Philips or slotted screw, but usually, a slotted screw is the electricians preferred type. Technically speaking, to meet code, a ground screw must be identifiably green in color to alert other homeowners and electricians that the screw is the ground. For instance, you might discover that an adapter plate will be helpful in the process of mounting a particular new box. While more extended screw options are available in the 6-32 inch size, you never want to use something longer than two inches to attach an electrical box. Around here they use galvanized steel roofing nails to attach boxes to studs. of the back or ends of the enclosure. Why are the products of Grignard reaction on an alpha-chiral ketone diastereomers rather than a racemate? How to Set Standard Outlet and Light Switch Heights, Old Work Electrical Boxes vs. New Work Electrical Boxes, 5 Handy Electrical Remodeling Tricks and Tips, How to Replace a Load-Bearing Wall With a Support Beam, How to Install an Old Work Electrical Box in an Existing Wall, When to Use a Plastic or Metal Electrical Box, How to Add an Outdoor Outlet With an Existing Circuit. Having to ground metal boxes is more advantage than disadvantage as they come with 2 or more ground screws, each of which can fasten 2 ground wires, so you often don't need a wire nut or Wago and you get some free box volume as a result. Always be sure to use stainless steel screws when working with electricity. These standard metal boxes have been secured by driving self-tapping screws through the 1/8-inch diameter mounting holes in the side of the box and into the horizontal metal stud. this sounds like new construction so why not use a metal box that has the spot welded ears on it?. Why did the Federal reserve balance sheet capital drop by 32% in Dec 2015? HomeTips. Like other electrical screws, you will want to use a 6-32 screw for the electrical outlet. HomeTips articles may contain links to Amazon.com and other partner programs that provide helpful products and services. Supports. I really haven't had any issue even with those boxes. 3-1/2 and 4" are deck screws with a T25 head, but a one pound box will last me about a year. Can the difference of two bounded decreasing functions oscillate? The most common size screw to use in an electric box is a 6-32 flathead screw. Of course, I've got plaster & lath walls, so it's stiffer than just drywall, but, depending on exactly where the box hits, there's a fair bit of play available if it's just plaster supporting the ears. ). Note the nails in the the mounting bracket or the flat flanges. ; loc_en_US, sid_S118RS, prod, sort_[SortEntry(order=LAST_APPROVED_ANSWER_SUBMISSION_TIME, direction=DESCENDING)]. Making statements based on opinion; back them up with references or personal experience. We do not sell them separate but the size and threads are SCREW, HW/PHI, 6-18 X 3.250, CRS, BLACK. This generally means mounting them so they extend 1/2 inch beyond the face of the wall studs if 1/2-inch-thick drywall will cover the wall studs. Keep in mind that typical room electrical receptacles should be placed a consistent 12 to 18 inches above the floor. Some electricians stop just short of driving the mounting nails completely into the studs. Can Romex (NM-B) be run in conduit for more than 10 ft when starting from the breaker panel? Don founded HomeTips in 1996. Electrical boxes typically are mounted to the sides of studs for stability. This outlet type features an extended electrical box to help accommodate the added thickness. As an Amazon Associate, HomeTips earns from qualifying purchases which allows us to continue creating helpful DIY content. What happens if a debt is denominated in something that does not have a clear value? Many (most?) It appears from another forum that this might violate electrical codes. This is the same size as the old work box but allows you to screw directly into the stud. Screws can be driven through mounting holes in two sides of the box. Did it once, never again. interior within 6 mm (1/4 in.) This allows the box to be easily removed should the layout need to be changed before the NM cable installation. outside of the enclosure, or they shall pass through the I will look at offerings at the blue and orange stores. Lee has over two decades of hands-on experience remodeling, fixing, and improving homes, and has been providing home improvement advice for over 12 years. Make sure to keep your blows perpendicular to the stud. Cut to the inside of the knife cut to prevent fraying the paper. By clicking Post Your Answer, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy. (1) Nails and Screws. Screw diameters are available in a range of sizes to accommodate different projects. Don Vandervort, HomeTips. If you want to 'freestyle' mountings like this, it's time to move over to steel boxes. Is it okay to protect NM Cable in an unfinished basement with ENT? In general, if you can screw into the stud, you don't use an old work box. Also, avoid placing a switch box on the hinge side of a door opening; you want the switch to be readily accessible upon opening the door. Follow our step-by-step instructions for installing an electrical box in drywall. All Rights Reserved. When you install an electrical box, make sure it is flush with the surface of this drywall strip; this will ensure the boxes are at the proper depth when the walls are finished. Using old-work electrical boxes is one way to hover the boxes between studs. If you use improper attachment points that are not gusseted, the box will at the least flex and shift, meaning your box is moving around while you wrestle plugs in/out of a stiff socket. This post may contain affiliate links. Then, with either a manual Phillips screwdriver or a cordless drill/driver, you turn the two screws clockwise. However, using any 8-32 screw with a washer will work as a ground for functionalitys sake. of the back or ends of the enclosure. (B) Structural Mounting. In Canada boxes come with holes to screw to studs, both inside and outside the box. Length is an important measurement, especially when it comes to working with electrical boxes. 2-1/8-Inch Deep and note where the bracket is - The face of the box is designed to be flush with the face of the drywall. I don't have a problem with drywall screws, but I haven't used them in over 20 years. To subscribe to this RSS feed, copy and paste this URL into your RSS reader. Stack Exchange network consists of 181 Q&A communities including Stack Overflow, the largest, most trusted online community for developers to learn, share their knowledge, and build their careers. Strip 8 to 12 inches of sheathing and run the cable into the box. For spaces used by people with accessibility issues requiring a wheelchair, for example, lower switch heights might be practical. Many residential homes have exterior outlet boxes, which create a safe and convenient way to add power and electricity to the outdoors. I use a slightly deeper ring than what is normally used ( ie: 5/8" raised ring for 1/2" drywall, 3/4" ring for 5/8" drywall ). In new construction, attaching a strip of drywall to the front face of studs can serve as a guide for attaching wall boxes. Box with flangenail the flange to the side of an exposed stud or joist, aligning the front so that it will be flush with the finished ceiling or wall. This four-gang box is designed to hole four switches or receptacles. For more information see our disclosures, Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner Buying & Installing, How to Get Your Home Ready for Overnight Guests, Smart Devices Protect Your Home During Power Outages &. Steel has the strength to allow you to drill holes where you please and use them for mounting screws. How can one check whether tax money is being effectively used by the government for improving a nation? How to achieve full scale deflection on a 30A ammeter with 5V voltage? Get daily tips and tricks for making your best home. Still, though, I think my solution would result in a more rigid mount.the question then becomes, how important is a bit of flex vs. the additional time and effort of my solution. Quick/Entry: feature speeds installation by eliminating need for tools, allows you to push stripped or unstripped non-metallic cable into a single gang plastic box without removing knockouts. The ground screw is essential for a safe electrical box. For larger or heavier applications, you may need to use multiple electrical screws to support the weight. why screw into the box, why not screw from inside the box out into the stud using zip screw? Always be sure to use a stainless steel electrical screw for exterior applications. Asking for help, clarification, or responding to other answers. Whether you are upgrading the electrical system in an old home or planning your electrical needs for new construction, it helps to draw out your plans on paper. Junction boxes are not to have additional holes drilled into them for securing them to studs. Screws shall not be permitted to pass through the box unless exposed threads in the box are protected using approved means to avoid abrasion of conductor insulation. NEC 110.3(B). Before you buy electrical boxes, you want to be certain they have the right mounting holes for the devices you plan to install. The revised text now permits running nails or screws through mounting holes in the back or in a single side of the enclosure. Why does \hspace{50mm} not exactly add 50 mm of horizontal space? While these screws may fit the needed application, they can do more harm than good and potentially damage your electrical boxes. See the actual NEC text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. I have used your solution many times but added a few drywall screw so I didn't have to wait for the glue to dry. This screw has a slightly larger diameter which makes it better suited for ceiling applications. Home Theater Connections & Cable Management, Wall Switch Occupancy and Vacancy Sensors, Wire Mesh Mounting, Dropouts and Accessories, Ladder Mounting, Dropouts and Accessories, Industrial Heavy-Duty Spec Grade Switches, Report Suspected Connected Device Vulnerability. How do I fix an outlet where the junction box falls into the hole and the wires are too short? This will keep the box from twisting or deflecting as you attach it. ), How To Hide An Electrical Box In The Front Yard (Do This! I've had no problems with either outlets or switches feeling wobbly. Mounting holes made in the field shall be approved. The box you have shown can be used and mounted fairly secure if you take the time to cut the opening as small as possible so the box tabs have more drywall to support it. Two Quick/Entries on each end. Follow these easy tips to make sure your electrical box installations look professional and meet code requirements. You want to avoid using drywall screws and sheet metal screws. To attach a recessed outlet, usually a 6-32 1.5 inch length screw should work perfectly. Then a truss-head or pan-head screw, maybe even with a washer to spread out the pressure. +, @GeorgeAnderson I think these are relatively new on the market as I don't remember seeing them when I was working. If you are simply replacing an electrical box or have lost the original screws, you may need to purchase new screws to attach your electrical box safely. Most commonly, a #6 gauge is used for electrical boxes and other electrical work. Before you get started, plan the job carefully, as running cable through walls covered with drywall or plaster can be difficult. Your other option of course is to simply cut out the sheetrock from one stud to the other, install a new work box and repair the sheet rock, but I don't think that's what you want to do. Determining the correct size and type of electrical screw can be difficult, though, especially with so many screw options available on the market. For heavier applications, like ceiling lighting and ceiling fans, an 8-32 screw will work better. Your bed is the place in your home that should bring you the most peace, tranquility, and comfort. Partially because there's a shortage, I couldn't buy a 2-gang old work plastic blue box like the one you pictured in the question. Then use a box with plaster ears (flanges) using them to screw into the sheetrock/plywood. sign in for electrical continuing education courses. If you have an area of a thicker wall than usual, a recessed outlet may have to be used. If plaster is attached to metal lath, cut all the way through the plaster with a knife and then cut the metal lath with side cutters. Screws shall not be permitted to pass through the Nail-on electrical wall boxbutt this box against a wall stud and nail it on.Nail-on electrical wall box is quick and fast to nail in place. Site design / logo 2022 Stack Exchange Inc; user contributions licensed under CC BY-SA. Thanks for contributing an answer to Home Improvement Stack Exchange! For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. You are using an out of date browser. Agreed. The only downside with ordering screws online is waiting for delivery, which can be problematic if you are in the middle of an active project. By clicking Accept all cookies, you agree Stack Exchange can store cookies on your device and disclose information in accordance with our Cookie Policy. Since the holes in the sides of most metal boxes are near the front, many inspectors would not allow them as mounting holes. These dimensions are set by codes. The next step up from there would be a metal box, but that might require clamps and other things to get the wire safely in (plus you need to bond metal boxes). Without some kind of guide, it can be difficult to install the boxes with the proper offset to ensure the front edges of the electrical boxes will be flush with the finished drywall surface. But they have always passed inspection. Was a common method in the past and still used today. JavaScript is disabled. Southwire Smart Box 2-Gang Adjustable Depth Device Box #MSB2G. Lastly, the length of the screw is given in the screw description. I installed a number of double- and triple-gang boxes like that when we initially updated the wiring in our house. Alternatively use a rotary cutter equipped with a plaster-cutting bit. Ensuring your electrical box has a ground screw is essential for a safe installation and application. If you want to talk about electrical code, you have to talk about where you live. It is also possible to buy electrical screws from online retailers like Amazon. Often, youll see more options for sizes and materials, and packages will be sold in larger bulk quantities online. Nails and screws, where used as a rev2022.7.29.42699. Also be sure the boxes have correctly placed knockout holes for routing cable in and out. You can use these to indicate how far to extend the electrical box from the face of the studs. But, what happens if the ground screw options available do not fit or wont work? Press the saw firmly against the wall to minimize lath vibration. I stopped buying drywall screws for 2 reasons: Put me in the 'drywall screws are brittle' camp. This number is always given after the gauge of the screw. Ground screws in electrical boxes are always 10-32 and must be painted visibly green. When the cover plate is covering an empty outlet box, a one-inch length can be used. That in turn can result in cracking at the stress points added through drilling. 100 pack. The tabs will put the box outside of the required roughin location. Tighten the screw until you feel resistance and the box is firmly attached. Old-work boxes attach directly to the drywall, not to the studs. Determining how much weight your screws can be essential to ensure your electrical box is held securely and safely. If it does vibrate as you saw, sections of plaster can loosen from the lath. Usually, the ground screw is thicker with a hex head and is painted green. Is it acceptable to retrofit a new-work plastic electrical box by screwing through it into a stud? A face cover plate is the part of an electrical construct that covers the electrical outlet or switch to keep it safely protected inside the wall. Really not the right box for what you're trying to do. I don't see the importance of the distance from back of the box. I'd find another way. Remember that the deeper recessed box will also require longer screws than usual to attach the face cover plate as well. Plastic is not metal. In other general, blue plastic boxes - ugh. Next, the threads per inch measurement determines how many individual threads exist in a one-inch screw shaft. Larry Campbell is an electrical contractor with 36 years of experience in residential and light commercial electrical wiring. Nightstands are valuable pieces of your bedrooms design, adding both form and function to the space. It's probably too late for you, but take a look at page A8 of the hubbel box catalog (here: Joist hanger screws are nice but expensive as hell. That's a big splice. Checking with AHJ never hurts as they always have final say. Debatable, but you can buy old work boxes with that designed into them. The previous employer was big on using phillips head deck screws, which I continued to use up until a year or so ago. Boxes, whether metal or nonmetallic, should be simple and straightforward to mount using one of the following techniques: Screw-on handy boxattach this box directly to the framing. Usually, a 6-32 electrical screw can support about 12 pounds. Lightweight fixtures can hold up on plaster or drywall if you have a remodel electrical box ($2, The Home Depot). There's no issue with plastic boxes, ignore the vague FUD about them in the first comment. That works too. Face cover places usually use slightly different electrical screws that have an oval shape, flat head. I would imagine the fiberglass hard shell variety would not fare so well. He worked as an electronic technician and later an engineer for the IBM Corp. is a member of The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board. The way this is worded "pass through" the box makes me think of an old installation style where long nails or screws were driven right through the box and into the stud, which is a huge pain to work around, but also easier to remove for rework than external fasteners. Find out what size screws you can use for inch cement board. Cut the hole with a drywall saw. fastening means, shall be attached by using brackets on the Quick/Click: feature for fast, easy, secure installations. Thanks JACK. Lisa F. Young / Shutterstock.com. A better solution is to get a box similar to the one below with side screws already included to be mounted to the stud. Drywall screws are the best thing since sliced bread. Adjustable hanger barwhen a ceiling box spans two joists, this two-piece bar can be narrowed or expanded to fit the space between them. 314.23(B)(1) Nails and Screws. If you were to have any wobble, it would most likely be on the end away from the stud anyway, and your screws wouldn't help that. These screws will commonly be 6-32 and be about 5/16 inches in length. having anything pointy/sharp inside the box, even with a thread cover, seems like trouble waiting to happen. Personally I don't really like those boxes at all. In the 2017 NEC, that issue has been corrected and now the intent of the section is clear. Get a Pre-Screened Local Electrical Wiring Contractor. You screw them down tight, say the box, and they are apt to fracture because they will not bend or stretch. Yet another type (right) uses separate mounting brackets that slide in after the box is inserted and bend over the sides of the box to lock it in place. I'd mark the holes and pre-drill because if you bust out the plywood, you'll have a real mess on your hands! But professionals follow certain standards for a uniform look. Caitlin graduated with a bachelor of journalism, with an emphasis in magazine editing, as well as a minor in textile and apparel management from the University of Missouri-Columbia. How do people live in bunkers & not go crazy with boredom? In most residential areas, the screw must be very clearly painted green to pass the electrical code. How gamebreaking is this magic item that can reduce casting times? Not sure what the code book says. If so, is there a better way to support old work boxes than just relying on the drywall tabs? Force LaTeX to ignore unknown Unicode characters. Pancake boxwhile this application has nothing to do with breakfast, its ease of installment makes it an option you might just flip over. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2017 NEC edition of NFPA 70. This type of box has wings that extend outward when you start to drive the screw, then grasp the back of the drywall as the screw is tightened.
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