Fixing outlet problem-Any ideas to enhance appearance?

Tracy
by Tracy
People drywalled over paneling without pulling out outlets. I know hiring electrician is my best solution but finances... Any ideas to enhance appearance?
  4 answers
  • Bonnie Morris Bonnie Morris on Nov 16, 2017

    Purchase PVC electrical box extenders. Easy to install. Always cut power to circuit first.

  • R Walter R Walter on Nov 16, 2017

    First turn off power to outlet, then use a box cutter to remove sheet rock over flanges of the outlets. either buy an outlet extender or you can use the spacers sold at big box stores to secure the outlets to the original box. It is SAFER to use a box extender because no exposed wires should come in contact with wood or wallboard of any kind, according to code. You might have to invest in the oversized outlet covers also.

    • Tracy Tracy on Nov 16, 2017

      Thank you for the detailed response. Hard to know what to do. Unsure what a big box store is. Must be a U.S. term. Lol . We have a Home Depot and Lowes here so sure they can help now that I know what I need.

  • R Walter R Walter on Nov 16, 2017

    That's a big box store here in the US. I just assumed that you were from the US also. You can get the outlet covers and the box extenders in the electrical section I know for sure at Home Depot. it really isn't that hard to get the outlets out with a box cutter just be careful that you cut in the direction of the opening so that you don't damage the sheetrock that will be outside the cover.

  • Darrel Bickel Darrel Bickel on Nov 18, 2017

    You need to carefully take the outlets out of the box and add a box extension. There are also spacers you could use under the switches with long screws, but a double box extension is the best option. You should not need to take the wiring loose, if you do make a diagram of the wiring as these may be 3 or 4 way switches and correct wire location can vary.