Electrical Wall Plates

Wall plates are used to cover and protect outlets, switches, and other openings in walls. They come in different sizes, colors, and materials to match the surrounding décor. There are also specialty wall plates available for specific needs. Wall plates can be single or multiple gang and come in many configurations. Below is an overview of wall plates to help you choose the right one for your project.

Wall Plate Types

The most common type of wall plate is the toggle switch plate, which is used to cover a light switch. There are also decorator switch plates, which are slightly smaller than standard toggle switch plates. Rocker switchplates are also available and can be used for either rocker switches or dimmer switches. Lastly, there are GFCI outlet covers, which have a reset button built in and are used to protect outlets located near sources of water.

Wall Plate Configurations

Wall plates come in several configurations, including single gang, double gang, triple gang, and the quad gang. Single gang wall plates are most commonly used for outlets and switches. Double gang wall plates can be used for two outlets or switches side-by-side. Triple gang wall plates are typically used to cover three switches, such as those controlling lights in a hallway. Quad gang wall plates are large enough to cover four switches or outlets and are often used in commercial settings.

Wall Plate Sizes

Standard wall plates come in two sizes: 2-gang and 4-gang. 2-gang wall plates are the most common size and fit over two standard outlets or switches. 4-gang wall plates are larger and can be used for four outlets or switches. Custom sizes are also available but less common.

Wall Plate Materials

Wall plates are made from various materials, including plastic, metal, wood, glass, and stone. Plastic is the most common material due to its durability and affordability. Metal wall plates offer a more robust look while wood wall plates add a touch of elegance to any space. Glass and stone wall plates can also be found but are less common due to their higher price point.

Wall Plate Colors and Finishes

Wall plates come in a wide range of colors and finishes, including white, black, grey, brown, brass, chrome, stainless steel, nickel, copper, clear, almond, ivory, light switch covers & more! Most people choose a color that matches the surrounding paint or trim, but you could also get creative and use a contrasting color for a pop of color. There are also many finishes available, including glossy, matte, hammered metal finishes & more! Choose a finish that compliments the other hardware in the room, such as door knobs & cabinet pulls.

Specialty Wall Plates

There are also many specialty wall plates available for specific needs, such as ethernet jacks, cable television jacks, phone jacks, keystone inserts, recessed TV boxes, vent covers, fan controls, pass-through inserts & more! These wall plates solve specific problems, so choose the right one for your needs.

There's a lot to know about choosing the right wall plate for your project, but we hope this overview has been helpful! If you still have questions or need assistance choosing the right product, please reach out to our customer service team, who would be happy to help. Thanks for reading!