When doing home improvement projects that involve electrical work, you’ll often need to cut drywall around existing outlets and switch boxes to access the wiring. This requires precision and care to avoid damaging the electrical components or leaving uneven edges around the boxes. So what’s the best tool for cleanly and safely cutting out sections of drywall around outlets and switches? There are a few good options depending on your needs and preferences.
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Key Considerations
When choosing a drywall cutting tool for outlet work, here are some key factors to consider:
- Precision – The tool needs to allow you to cut very close to the outlet or switch box without damaging it.
- Control – You need to be able to guide the cutting tool steadily and accurately as you cut.
- Depth – The tool must be able to cut through the full depth of the drywall.
- Access – Since you’re working around tightly enclosed electrical boxes, the tool needs to be able to fit into and maneuver around confined spaces.
- Safety – Electricity and sharp cutting tools can be a dangerous combination, so the safest option is best.
- Cost – Professional drywall tools can be quite expensive, so also consider what DIY options will get the job done without breaking your budget.
Keeping these factors in mind will help you select the right outlet cutting tool for your needs.
Recommend Tool Options
Here are some recommended tools to consider for cutting drywall around electrical outlets and switches:
Rotary Drywall Cutout Tool
A rotary drywall cutout tool is a power tool specifically designed for cutting openings in drywall. It consists of a cylindrical cutting head attached to a drill. As the drill spins the head, it cuts through the drywall in a circular motion. Here are the pros and cons of using a rotary tool:
Pros:
- Very precise, professional cuts
- Allows excellent control and maneuverability
- Can cut openings of any shape and size
- Fast and efficient
Cons:
- Higher cost than manual options
- Requires owning or borrowing a power drill
- More setup time required
- Can create drywall dust
Overall, a good rotary cutout tool is the best option for pro-quality cuts, but is pricier.
Utility Knife
A simple utility knife, also called a box cutter, can also be effective for outlet cutouts. The pros and cons are:
Pros:
- Very inexpensive and easy to obtain
- Easy to control pressure and cutting angle
- Easier access to tight spaces than bulkier tools
- Creates less dust
Cons:
- Not as precise as rotary tools
- No depth guide so risks cutting too deep
- Harder to keep cuts straight and smooth
- Blades can break or wear down quickly
For simple jobs, a utility knife can get the job done, but expect more uneven cuts. Use a new sharp blade for best results.
Oscillating Multi-Tool
Oscillating multi-tools are power tools that use quick oscillating blade motions for cutting and sanding jobs. Here are the pros and cons for outlet work:
Pros:
- Allows very precise and controlled cuts
- Can use it for other tasks like sanding and scraping
- Compact size maneuverability in tight spaces
- Available depth guides for consistent cut depths
Cons:
- Not as fast at cutting openings as a rotary tool
- Blades may need frequent replacing
- More expensive than manual options
- Creates drywall dust
Oscillating tools are very effective for outlet cutouts, though not as specialized as rotary tools. But their versatility makes them a good investment for many DIYers.
Keyhole/Drywall Saw
Keyhole saws or drywall saws have narrow hooked blades for cutting through drywall. Here is a summary:
Pros:
- Inexpensive manual cutting tool
- Good for making straight cuts and square holes
- Blades can be angled to turn corners
- Creates minimal drywall dust
Cons:
- Not as precise as power rotary tools
- No depth guide so depth is hard to control
- Difficult to cut rounded openings or holes
- Blades may bend or wear out quickly
Manual keyhole saws are affordable and can make decent straight cuts, but are trickier for rounded openings.
Recommendations by Job Difficulty
Here are my recommendations for outlet cutting tools based on the complexity of your drywall job:
Simple job
For a basic job with just a couple outlet or switch boxes to cut around that likely have straight edges, a manual utility knife or drywall saw should work fine. Just take care to measure carefully and keep the blade straight as you cut.
Moderate job
If you need to cut multiple openings with rounded edges, or have outlet boxes in trickier tight spots, a powered oscillating multi-tool is your best bet. The added precision and maneuverability will make the job much easier.
Large or complex job
For jobs where you need to cut a high volume of outlet openings or make challenging cuts around complicated electrical boxes, invest in a professional rotary drywall cutout tool. Its specialized design will make the cuts fast, smooth and precise.
Cutting Technique Tips
Once you’ve selected the right drywall cutting tool, use these technique tips to get clean, safe cuts around electrical boxes:
- Take your time and don’t rush the cutting. Smooth cuts take patience.
- Keep your cutting tool perpendicular to the wall surface as you cut to ensure straight edges.
- Apply even steady pressure – don’t push too hard or wiggle the blade.
- Pause cuts to empty dust if it builds up in the outlet box.
- Make relief cuts if needed to allow your tool to turn corners smoothly.
- Keep a vacuum handy to contain dust and debris as you work.
Proper cutting technique will produce better results and safer conditions whatever tool you’re using.
Safety Tips
When using sharp powered cutting tools around electricity, safety should always be your top concern. Follow these tips:
- Always turn off the power at the breaker before starting any electrical work.
- Verify power is off by testing outlets with a non-contact voltage tester.
- Keep your cutting tool far away from any live wires as you work.
- Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from debris.
- Use a face mask or respirator to avoid breathing drywall dust.
- Be mindful of tripping hazards from extension cords and tools.
- Work carefully to avoid damaging hidden electrical components.
Rushing the job or ignoring safety precautions could lead to electric shocks, eye injuries or respiratory irritation. Take it slow and be safe.
Conclusion
Cutting drywall openings for outlets and switches demands the right tools and techniques to get professional-looking results safely. For most DIYers, an oscillating multi-tool or rotary cutout tool are your best options. But even a basic utility knife can work for simple jobs. Just be sure to follow safe practices and take your time. Patience and the proper cutting tools will allow you to get the openings you need without damaging your electrical system.