What do we use to cut out outlets in drywall?

When installing electrical outlets in drywall, having the right tools for cutting clean openings is essential. There are a few main options for cutting drywall to add new outlets or replace existing ones, each with their own pros and cons.

Keyhole Saw

A keyhole saw, also sometimes called a “drywall saw,” is a specialized saw for cutting openings and holes in drywall. Keyhole saws have a very narrow blade, usually with fine teeth, that allows for precise cuts. The narrow profile of the blade lets you cut openings close to studs or other obstacles.

Here are some of the pros of using a keyhole saw:

• Very narrow blade allows for intricate cuts in tight spaces
• Lets you cut very close to studs, pipes, etc.
• Cheap and easy to find at any hardware store
• Blade length lets you make cuts in one pass

And some potential cons:

• Blade can bend or break if too much pressure is applied
• Doesn’t work well for long cuts or cutouts
• Takes practice to cut clean openings
• Can leave rough edges that need additional sanding

Overall, a keyhole saw is a good choice for small, simple openings like outlets when you need to cut close to obstacles. But for larger holes, other tools usually work better.

Drywall Saw

A drywall saw is a saw specifically designed for cutting openings and holes in drywall. These saws have coarse teeth that are optimized for cutting through gypsum drywall quickly and cleanly.

Here are some benefits of using a drywall saw:

• Coarse teeth cut through drywall quickly and easily
• Available in different blade lengths for different size openings
• Comfortable handles provide good grip and control
• Affordable and easy to find

Some downsides to consider:

• Difficult to make intricate or curved cuts
• Not as easy to use in tight spaces as a keyhole saw
• Can leave rough edges that need sanding
• Less control than specialty saws

A drywall saw is a good all-around tool for most outlet cutting needs. The longer blade makes quick work of mid-sized openings. While not as precise as a keyhole saw, drywall saws get the job done quickly.

Oscillating Multi-Tool

Oscillating multi-tools use a quickly oscillating or vibrating blade to cut through various materials. When fitted with a drywall blade, these tools can be used to cut very precise openings in drywall.

Benefits of using an oscillating multi-tool include:

• Very precise cuts with smooth edges
• Curved and irregular cuts are easy
• Cuts very close to edges and obstacles
• Large range of specialty blades available

Some limitations:

• More expensive than basic saws
• May require multiple passes for thicker drywall
• Takes practice to master smooth cuts
• Not as fast as drywall saw for large holes

Oscillating tools are ideal for experienced DIYers looking for clean, professional cuts around outlets, corners, and other tight areas.

Rotary Tool

Rotary tools like Dremels use small, rotating cutting bits to grind, sand, polish, and cut material. Using a drywall cutting bit, they can be used to cut outlet openings.

Here are some of the advantages of using a rotary tool:

• Very accurate and precise cuts
• Easy to maneuver for detailed cuts
• Drywall bits available for smooth cuts
• Useful for sanding and grinding after cuts

Some weaknesses include:

• Small size makes larger holes time consuming
• Can leave uneven edges
• Easy to accidentally gouge drywall surface
• Drywall bits wear down quickly

Rotary tools work well for detail work, but may not be the best choice for simply cutting outlets. They shine when you need to refine openings for a seamless look.

Routers

Routers utilize a rotating motor to spin cutting bits that can shape, groove, and carve through material. When used carefully with a guide, routers can create clean and precise drywall openings.

Benefits of using a router include:

• Cutting bits create smooth, finished edges
• Guides provide extremely straight cuts
• Large range of router bits available
• Precise depth control possible

Downsides to consider:

• Can easily damage drywall surface if not careful
• Guide required for straight cuts
• Not ideal for curved or irregular holes
• High speed poses safety risks

For pros looking to cut multiple drywall openings with immaculate straight edges, a router and guide can be a great precision tool. But they may be overkill for simple jobs.

Hole Saws

Hole saws attach to electric drills and use a toothed metal ring to cut circular holes in drywall and other materials. For round outlets or fixtures, they can cut clean openings quickly.

Some benefits of hole saws:

• Cut perfect round holes for outlets
• Available in different sizes for various fixtures
• Quickly cuts through drywall
• Inexpensive and widely available

Some limitations include:

• Only useful for circular cuts
• Can bind up if not used properly
• Remove slug can be tricky
• Rough edges often need finishing

For simple, round openings, hole saws are a fast, inexpensive choice. But they lack the versatility for complex openings.

Utility Knives

A simple utility knife with a retractable razor blade can also be used to cut outlets in drywall. While not as fast or precise as other tools, utility knives provide an inexpensive and accessible outlet cutting option.

Here are some benefits of using a utility knife:

• Simple, cheap, and easy to control
• Great for quick small openings and touch ups
• Easily cut openings close to edges
• Razor blades are replaceable

Some drawbacks include:

• Very difficult for cutting large openings
• No guide makes straight cuts challenging
• Can easily damage drywall surface
• Uneven pressure causes varied depth

While not suitable for major drywall cutting, utility knives can be handy for small outlet gaps or finishing touches. But for most projects, specialized drywall cutting tools are preferable.

Factors to Consider

When choosing tools for cutting drywall outlets, here are some important factors to consider:

• Hole shape – Match the tool to the shape of the opening needed. Round holes are ideal for hole saws, irregular openings suit oscillating tools.
• Hole size – Larger openings and cutouts call for drywall saws, routers, or oscillating tools, while keyhole or utility knives work for small holes.
• Location – For openings near edges, corners, or pipes, keyhole or oscillating tools allow precise cuts in tight spots.
• Number of cuts – Projects with multiple openings warrant tools like routers that ensure consistency.
• Tool precision – The smoothness of the cut and finishing time varies across tools. Routers and oscillating tools provide cleaner edges to start with.
• Cost – Hole saws and utility knives provide the most affordable options, while oscillating tools and routers have higher startup costs.
• User experience – Inexperienced DIYers may opt for basic saws or hole cutters, while pros may use more advanced tools.

Considering these factors will help determine the best tool for your specific drywall cutting application.

Cutting Drywall Outlets – Step-by-Step

Once you’ve selected the proper cutting tool, here is a step-by-step process for cleanly cutting outlets in drywall:

1. Measure and mark the location for the outlet cutout using a pencil, accounting for any wall studs or obstructions.
2. Put on safety glasses and a dust mask or respirator.
3. Use painter’s tape at the edges of the cutout area to reduce drywall surface damage and messy edges.
4. Carefully cut the outline of the opening using your selected tool, applying consistent pressure.
5. Make relief cuts at the corners to allow drywall to break out cleanly.
6. Tap drywall piece with a hammer and pry out cutout area using a screwdriver or pry bar.
7. Smooth any rough edges with drywall joint compound or sandpaper.
8. Vacuum up drywall dust thoroughly.
9. Install electrical box and outlet into opening.

Always refer to local electrical codes for proper outlet box installation requirements. With the right tools and careful technique, you can get professional looking results.

Cutting Drywall Openings: Safety Tips

To protect yourself when cutting drywall openings, keep these safety tips in mind:

• Wear eye protection like safety glasses to guard against debris.
• Use a dust mask or respirator to avoid inhaling drywall dust.
• Wear hearing protection when using loud power tools.
• Keep hands clear of the blade when cutting and wear gloves for grip.
• Avoid cutting into wires, pipes, or other utilities hidden in walls.
• Unplug tools before changing cutting bits or blades.
• Keep proper footing and don’t overextend your reach.
• Allow dust to settle before breathing the air again.

Exercising proper caution will help avoid eye, skin, lung, and other injuries when DIY drywall cutting.

Choosing the Right Drywall Cutting Tool

Here is a table summarizing the main pros, cons, and best uses for common drywall cutting tools:

Tool	Pros	Cons	Best Uses
Keyhole Saw	Intricate cuts in tight spaces Cuts outlets close to edges Inexpensive	Blades can bend or break Not ideal for large holes Can leave uneven edges	Small, simple openings near obstacles
Drywall Saw	Fast cutting in drywall Various blade length options Comfortable handles	Lacks intricacy of keyhole saw Rough cut edges Less precision	Mid-sized holes not near edges
Oscillating Tool	Very smooth cuts Easily cuts curved openings Large range of specialty blades	Expensive Can require multiple passes Learning curve	Intricate or irregular cuts
Rotary Tool	Very accurate cuts Maneuverable for detail work Finishing abilities	Slow for large holes Uneven edge finish Easy to damage drywall	Detailed cuts and finishing
Router	Extremely straight edges Precise depth control Various bit options	Learning curve Guide required for straight cuts Safety risks	Multiple straight openings
Hole Saw	Fast circular cutting Available in many sizes Inexpensive	Only round holes Can bind up Rough edges	Round holes for outlets
Utility Knife	Cheap and accessible Good for small gaps Easy to control	Very limited uses No guide for straight cuts Uneven cut depth	Small fixes and touch ups

Conclusion

When installing and replacing drywall outlets, having the proper cutting tools is key to getting professional looking, clean openings easily. Keyhole saws provide inexpensive, close-quarters cutting, while oscillating tools create seamless curved and straight openings. Routers and hole saws also have specialized uses for outlets and fixtures. Considering the factors like outlet location, hole size, tool precision, and cost will allow you to select the right drywall cutting tools for the job.

With the proper drywall cutting technique and safety precautions, electrical upgrades can be completed to enhance your home. But always consult local building codes and ensure all wiring meets electrical safety standards. The right tools coupled with care and knowledge will lead to safe, long-lasting drywall openings for outlets and lights.