How do you fill a gap between an outlet and a wall cover?

Filling the gap between an electrical outlet and the wall cover plate is an important part of ensuring safety and making your electrical work look professional. There are a few ways to fill this gap, depending on the situation:

Using electrical outlet spacers

Outlet spacers are small plastic shims that are made specifically for filling the gap behind outlet covers. They come in different thicknesses to accommodate different size gaps. Here’s how to use them:

1. Remove the outlet cover and unscrew the outlet from the electrical box.
2. Determine the thickness of spacer needed. You want it to be snug when sandwiched between the outlet and the wall.
3. Place the spacers over the screw holes on the sides of the outlet. You may need multiple spacers stacked if dealing with a large gap.
4. Install the outlet back into the electrical box, threading screws through the spacers.
5. Attach the cover plate, which will now sit flush against the wall without a gap.

Outlet spacers are available at most hardware stores and home improvement centers. They provide a quick and easy way to fill the gap behind an outlet.

Using drywall screws

If you don’t have outlet spacers available, you can use drywall screws instead. Here’s how:

1. Remove the outlet cover and unscrew the outlet. Place it to the side.
2. Determine how far back the outlet needs to sit from the wall surface.
3. Choose drywall screws that are long enough to accommodate this distance when inserted into the screw holes on the outlet.
4. With the outlet positioned the correct distance from the wall, drive the drywall screws through its mounting holes and into the electrical box.
5. Attach the cover plate, checking for a secure fit against the wall.

The screw heads will act just like the spacers to fill the gap. Make sure not to use screws that are too long, as they could puncture wires inside the electrical box.

Filling with electrical box extenders

For large gap depths, you may need to install an electrical box extender.

1. Remove the outlet and disconnect all wiring from the electrical box.
2. Unscrew and remove the electrical box from the wall framing.
3. Install the electrical box extender between the existing box and the wall framing.
4. Re-install the electrical box into the extender piece.
5. Thread the wiring back through the extender into the electrical box.
6. Reconnect the wires to the outlet and remount it into the box.
7. Attach the cover plate, checking for a flush fit.

Extenders are available in a range of depths to accommodate gaps from 1/2″ to 2″. They provide a rigid spacer solution and are safer than using makeshift materials.

Filling with insulation

For shallow gaps under 1/4″, you can fill behind the outlet with appropriate insulation material such as:

• Electrical insulation putty
• Non-conductive caulk
• Insulating foam sealant

With the outlet removed, fill from the back of the electrical box just enough so that the outlet sits flush or slightly recessed when remounted. Do not overfill behind the box – just enough to account for the gap to the wall.

When to call an electrician

While these are common DIY methods for fixing an outlet gap, there are times you may want to call a professional electrician:

• You have no idea how to safely turn off power and work on electrical outlets
• The cause of the gap is unknown or is a symptom of a larger issue
• The gap exceeds 1/2″ or so – may need box extender or wall work
• There are other concerning symptoms like hot outlets or flickering lights
• You open the box and find an unsafe or hazardous wiring mess

Electrical issues are not always DIY work. When in doubt, call an electrician to ensure your safety and correctly address the root cause of the gap.

Tips for preventing future outlet gaps

To avoid having to fill outlet gaps down the road, keep these tips in mind for your electrical projects:

• Use spacers behind all outlets and switches when installing them initially.
• Ensure electrical boxes are mounted flush with finished wall depth.
• Use caulk behind boxes to seal openings that let air through.
• Install outlet boxes on interior framed walls before drywall goes up.
• Check for potential gaps behind tiling backsplash or other wall coverings.
• Use supported metal boxes instead of plastic ones when possible.

Paying attention to proper mounting and sealing boxes during construction or renovation can prevent having to fill gaps after the fact. Taking the time to do it right the first time saves effort later.

Materials needed

To properly fill an outlet gap, make sure you have the necessary materials on hand. Here are some standard supplies needed:

• Outlet spacers or drywall screws
• Non-conductive caulk or putty
• Electrical box extender (if necessary)
• Drywall patching compound (if enlarging box opening)
• New electrical box (if replacing existing)

You may also need basic electrical tools like a voltage tester, screwdriver, wire strippers and cable ripper. Have these items available before starting any electrical project.

Step-by-step instructions

Here is a summary of the basic step-by-step process for fixing an outlet gap:

1. Turn off power – Turn off circuit breaker or unplug outlet/lamp.
2. Remove cover plate – Unscrew cover plate and set aside.
3. Unmount outlet – Unscrew outlet from the electrical box and disconnect wires.
4. Examine gap – Check depth and location of gap needing filler.
5. Install spacers – Add outlet spacers or drywall screws as needed.
6. Remount outlet – Reconnect wires and remount outlet over spacers.
7. Attach cover – Screw cover plate back on, checking for proper fit.
8. Restore power – Turn breaker back on or plug in outlet/lamp.

Follow basic electrical safety procedures. Call an electrician if the wiring setup is questionable or hazardous. Take your time and be methodical for best results.

Electrical box mounting tips

Proper mounting of electrical boxes is crucial for preventing future outlet gap problems. Here are some tips:

• Use correct box depth – Match to wall material thickness.
• Secure boxes firmly – Brace or use anchors appropriately.
• Ensure flush with surface – Double check alignment as you mount.
• Use box supports – Attach securely to wall framing.
• Seal openings – Use non-hardening caulk around openings.
• Check alignment – Recheck fit after wiring and drywall.

Taking extra care when mounting boxes initially makes a difference down the road. A securely mounted box prevents movement and gaps from developing.

Electrical box mounting methods

There are several approved methods for mounting electrical boxes properly:

Mounting Method	Application
Cable clamps	Plastic boxes in drywall
Mounting ears	Metal boxes in drywall
Fixture hanger bar	Ceiling light box support
Bracket attachment	Mounting box directly to stud
Saddle attachment	Surface mounted conduit boxes

Use the method designed for the box type and location. Follow manufacturer instructions and electrical code requirements.

Electrical box types

Here are some of the common electrical box types:

• Plastic – Light duty for drywall; requires cable clamps.
• Metal – Sturdier; required for some locations.
• Conduit – Threads for connecting rigid conduit.
• Gangable – Multiple side-by-side outlets or switches.
• Adjustable depth – Sliding back bracket to set depth.
• Ceiling – Rated for ceiling fan support.
• Weatherproof – Outdoor or wet location usage.

Choose the correct type of box for your specific installation requirements.

Non-metallic vs. metallic boxes

Electrical boxes come in non-metallic and metallic varieties. Here’s how they compare:

	Non-Metallic	Metallic
Material	Plastic	Steel, aluminum
Cost	Lower	Higher
Strength	Less durable	Very durable
Grounding	Ground wire required	Box is ground
Wiring	Cable clamps	Knockouts

Non-metallic: suitable for indoor, dry locations. Metallic: required for some wet or hazardous locations.

Importance of grounding

Properly grounding electrical boxes is critical for safety. Here’s why it matters:

• Provides a path for fault currents to prevent shocks.
• Dissipates static charges and lightning safely.
• Triggers circuit breakers if overloaded.
• Neutralizes electrical noise interference.

Metal boxes are automatically grounded. Non-metallic boxes must be grounded with wires. Ensure all boxes have an appropriately sized ground wire or conductor.

Fixing problematic electrical boxes

Here are some solutions for fixing problematic electrical box issues:

• Loose box – Shim with non-combustible materials, anchor to stud.
• Misaligned box – Reposition and support box flush with wall depth.
• No grounding – Connect ground wire according to code.
• Openings – Seal with acrylic caulk to prevent air leakage.
• Corroded/damaged – Replace old deteriorated galvanized boxes.

Addressing box issues promptly improves safety and prevents bigger problems down the road.

Conclusion

Filling the gap behind an electrical outlet is a relatively easy project with the right materials and safety precautions. Outlet spacers, drywall screws, or box extenders can all help fill the space so covers fit flush. While a DIY fix is straightforward in most cases, call an electrician if you have any doubts about electrical safety or the complexity of the job. Taking time to mount boxes properly during initial installation can help minimize gaps and related issues in the future.