Using plastic box extenders on metal boxes
#1
01-07-17, 12:14 PM
Using plastic box extenders on metal boxes
Is it ok to use plastic box extenders on existing metal single/double gang boxes?
The reason I ask is that while attempting to tighten/secure some "loose" receptacles I noticed that they were not installed properly. The Front of the gang box ends behind the back of the sheet rock so the receptacle essentially is partially within the gang box and partially out of it. Hence the reason the receptacle is loose and pushes in when you plug something into it. Removing the existing gang boxes would be fairly involved. I rather just add an extension ring/extender so that the front of the box is now flush with the sheetrock. If I can't find the proper metal extenders could I use plastic ones? Thanks
The reason I ask is that while attempting to tighten/secure some "loose" receptacles I noticed that they were not installed properly. The Front of the gang box ends behind the back of the sheet rock so the receptacle essentially is partially within the gang box and partially out of it. Hence the reason the receptacle is loose and pushes in when you plug something into it. Removing the existing gang boxes would be fairly involved. I rather just add an extension ring/extender so that the front of the box is now flush with the sheetrock. If I can't find the proper metal extenders could I use plastic ones? Thanks
#2
01-07-17, 12:58 PM
Group Moderator
Using a plastic extender is fine as long as there is a ground wire connected to the device if it is a grounded receptacle (three hole). If it is not a grounded (two hole) device it is also OK as well without a ground wire.
Extender rings might not help for loose receptacles. These will: Ideal Spacers (25-Pack)-172451L - The Home Depot
Extender rings might not help for loose receptacles. These will: Ideal Spacers (25-Pack)-172451L - The Home Depot
#3
01-07-17, 01:09 PM
Thanks for the info
I've used those spacers before and they work fine to help even out the face plate or tighten receptacles up but this is too far recessed - around 3/4" so I'll need the extended first and maybe spacers to fine tune things.
I've used those spacers before and they work fine to help even out the face plate or tighten receptacles up but this is too far recessed - around 3/4" so I'll need the extended first and maybe spacers to fine tune things.
#5
01-09-17, 04:15 AM
I have used these box extenders many times and they work nicely. And as mentioned they come in a few different depths. You just have to make sure though that the device box hole will accommodate them. Meaning you may have to trim around the hole more to fit these in where as the others you do not have to. I usually use an oscillator to cut evenly around the box to fit the extenders.
#6
01-10-17, 08:25 AM
I purchased some in different depths and they seem to work well. I'm noticing another issue though - they attached the gang boxes on only one side to metal studs. This leaves the other side "unsupported" which leads to angled boxes which "give" back into the wall on their unsupported side. Do you know of a good way without messing up the walls of supporting the one side of the box?
Putting the switch plate cover on helps keep the outlet forward & helps the situation somewhat but not as much as I'd prefer
Putting the switch plate cover on helps keep the outlet forward & helps the situation somewhat but not as much as I'd prefer
