Picking out switchplates can be challenging, whether you are renovating a home, building an addition, or moving into a new place. There are many factors to consider, such as color, finish, style, size, and configuration. To avoid having to postpone your project due to the wrong switchplates, here are some tips for the successful selection of light switch wall plate covers:
Make A List
To ensure that you don’t forget any decorative light switch wall plates when remodeling or moving into a new home, make a list or sketch of each plate’s location and shape in each room. Be sure to include any plates that may be hidden behind furniture or around corners that need to match the rest of the plates in the adjacent room. If possible, use sticky notes to mark each plate with its shape and location. Once you have accounted for every electrical box, gather the sticky notes and count them to determine your total.
Device Descriptions
When choosing configurations for your switchplates, it’s important to understand the device descriptions and options available. Many people may not realize that outlets come in different colors and styles, such as black switch plates, gold light switch covers, plastic switch covers etc.
Moreover, there are more functional varieties, like Decora (a large, block-style rectangular opening for two receptacles), duplex (for two slightly rounded plugs on one device), and many more. Similarly, electricians may install Decora rockers or toggle switches, both of which are referred to as “switches.” Make sure to clarify these details to avoid confusion.
Plate Orientation
When selecting the apt electric switch wall plates with different device openings, pay attention to the orientation. While plain plates can be rotated, decorative plates usually have a specific “up” direction. For example, if you are choosing a decorative pattern such as SleekLighting Bamboo Switch Plates and need a combination plate with a toggle switch on one side and a Decora outlet on the other, make sure the design will be facing up.
Consider which side the toggle switch is on and whether the plate will work if it is mounted sideways (if you have outlets that are mounted horizontally). Keep these details in mind to ensure a cohesive and visually pleasing result.
Color and Finish
Consider which colors will best match your decor when choosing switch plates. If you are updating the colors in a room, you may want to replace the current devices to ensure they don’t stand out. A wide range of colors is available for wall plates, including white, black, almond, cherry red, and turquoise. In addition to these options, metal wall plates like bronze or brushed satin pewter wall plate can be found in the collection. It is also possible to purchase wall plates that can be painted or clear plates that display a piece of wallpaper for a cohesive appearance.
To achieve a cohesive look, think about which colors will complement your current decor and consider replacing your switches, outlets, and other devices before investing in new plates. For example, white devices may be too stark against a dark wall so you might opt for black devices instead. Alternatively, antique brass wall plates are ideal for more elegant and lavish settings where you can add a touch of luxury to the ambiance of the interiors.
Decorating on a Budget
SleekLighting Switch Plates offers matching plain wall plate covers for all of their designer switchplates, so you can mix and match them to suit your needs. If you want the style and impact of decorative switch plates but are on a tight budget, you can choose fancy ones like the satin nickel wall plate for the most visible locations and plain coordinating plates for the less visible ones.
Do Not Order Too Early
Hold off on choosing your switchplates until the electrical part of the project is almost finished. It’s not uncommon for changes to be made after discussions about usability and convenience. Once you see the electrical boxes installed, you may realize that you want a different location or need more lighting or outlets.
To avoid the hassle of having to find an odd-sized or multi-gang plate that isn’t available in the pattern you selected, consider working with a company like SleekLighting that stocks a wide range of wall plates for outlets with different sizes and finishes. This way, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from, including hard-to-find wall plate sizes.
Order The Correct Covers For Your Outlets
It’s important to know the type of switch you have in order to select the correct cover. The most common types are toggle light switches for operating room lights and duplex receptacles for plugging in lamps, small appliances, and other devices. Rocker plates with an enlarged opening can accommodate rocker and dimmer switches, as well as USB outlets and GFCI outlets.
In newer homes, you may need coaxial plates or HDMI plates for cable TV, satellite wiring, and audio-video connections or Ethernet wall plates for home network connections. With decorative switch wall plates, you have versatile functionalities and empty outlet boxes that can cover loose wiring and protect it from damage.
Oversized Switchplates May Be Required
Jumbo switchplates can be a useful solution for many common problems, such as contractor errors (e.g., holes in a granite backsplash that are too large for standard plates), electrical boxes that need to be moved slightly due to hidden beams, chipped plaster when removing old plates, or the desire to cover unsightly built-up paint around existing openings. Oversized decorative light switch wall plates may also be a good choice for larger rooms or furnishings that require larger wall plate covers.
In conclusion, choosing the right switchplates involves considering several factors, such as device descriptions and configurations, color and finish, size and orientation, and compatibility with your decor and electrical needs. To avoid common mistakes, it’s important to make a list or sketch of each plate location, pay attention to the “up” direction of decorative plates, choose the right colors, and wait until the electrical part of the project is nearly finished to make your selections.
Working with a company that stocks a wide range of sizes and finishes can also be helpful in finding the perfect switchplates for your needs. By following these tips, you can ensure a cohesive and successful result for your project.
