shallow electrical box

I am installing sconces on the wall above my fireplace. The surface where I plan to install the metallic electrical boxes (for the wire connections) is a layer of plasterboard, backed by a wooden (tongue & groove) layer, and then the brick chimney. The combined depth of the plasterboard and wood is not more than about 1/2 inch. Standard electrical boxes (approx. 2 3/8 inches by 3 1/4 inches) are too deep to use in this application. I have seen circular, metallic boxes but these appear to be too wide for the cover plate and will require considerable plastering to cover. Are you aware of any shallow (approximately 1/2 inch or less in depth) rectangular electrical boxes that are available for such an application?

 

The round, thin boxes that you mention are often called "pancake" boxes. I'll suggest that you check three things: (1) do you really only have 1/2"? I would think you'd have somewhat more. (2) Could you use a deeper box by cutting a hole in the brick? Not sure if that would compromise your chimney or not. (3) Are you sure the sconce won't cover the round box? Most lighting fixtures are designed to be mounted on either a round or rectangular box. I think you should be able to use the round pancake box.

 

I think that dry wall is 1/2" and the T&G is at least 5/8".
1/2 + 5/8 = 1 1/8. If this is true look at this web site.
This is a 1" RACO switch box.

http://www.lowes.com/lkn?action=prod...1-427-8404/404

 

There are 1 gang device boxes that are only 1" deep, and only accomodate (1) 14-2 Romex. I would verify the exact depth with a ruler first. If it is deeper we may have more suggestions.
I would go with pancakes.

gj