Knowledge Builders

how tall is a light switch cover

by Wyatt Goodwin Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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4.5 inches tall

Full Answer

How can I DIY a light switch cover?

Instructions

  • Using the rotary paper trimmer, cut the decorative paper 3 5/8-inch x 5 1/2-inch.
  • Apply the glue to the top of the plate cover.
  • With the application roller gently roll over the decorative paper to remove air bubbles.
  • At each corner, cut the paper until it meets the corner of the switch plate cover.
  • Next, apply glue to the edge of the plate cover. ...

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Are all light switches the same size?

The boxes, outlets, and switches are standard sizes. The only exception which comes to mind is that dimmer switches may require a larger than normal box for heat dissipation. Cover plates generally are the same size if they are the "standard size". what is the size of a standard switch plate?

How to make a picture light switch cover?

  • Dimensions: 3"l x 5"w x 0.18"h
  • Fits standard U.S. single pole light switches
  • Material: ultra-durable acrylic
  • 4 screws included
  • Vibrant full-color AcryliPrint®HD printing

What are the dimensions of a light switch?

  • Uses: horizontally flipping toggle switches stacked one on top of the other - turn lights on and off by switching left to right
  • Gangs: 1 - 3 gang (up to 6 gang using duplex switch plates)
  • Sizes: wide, narrow, oversized, jumbo multi-gang or combo configurations
  • Note: horizontal toggle switch plates are identical to duplex outlet cover plates

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Are all light switch covers the same size?

There are three common wall plate sizes: standard, midsize/midway and jumbo. When selecting a size, the plate should completely cover the electrical box opening. If the opening is oversized, you may need a jumbo plate to conceal it.

How are outlet covers measured?

Place a ruler or tape measure against the plate or electrical box holes to get a precise measurement. Get the distance from the center of one screw hole to the center of the opposite screw hole (down to 32nds of an inch if need be).

How high should switch boxes be?

48 inchesStandard Height for Light Switch Boxes The standard height for wall switches in most rooms (excluding those over kitchen counters) is 48 inches above the top of the floor covering (measured to the bottom of the box).

Are light switches a standard size?

Regular Switchplates are a standard 4-1/2" high and 5/32" deep; width varies based on the number of gangs: One gang plates are 2-3/4" wide. Two gangs are 4-9/16" wide. Three gangs are 6-3/8" wide.

What is a standard light switch?

June 5, 2022. A standard single-pole light switch is the type where you flip the switch's toggle or paddle up or down to turn lights on and off. This familiar switch is actually referred to by hardware dealers and electricians as a “single-pole light switch.”

What is the best height for light switches?

48 inchesFor a majority of rooms, builders tend to place the bottoms of light switches 48 inches above the floor. This is a comfortable height for most home dwellers when sitting or standing, plus it makes it easier to install switches during construction.

Is there a code for electrical outlet height?

Electrical receptacle outlets on branch circuits of 30 amperes or less and communication system receptacles shall be located no more than 48 inches (1219 mm) measured from the top of the receptacle outlet box nor less than 15 inches (381 mm) measured from the bottom of the receptacle outlet box to the level of the ...

How do you rough a light switch?

0:2318:50How To Rough In a Switch Box Feeding Lights & Outlets - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipProcess and i'm going to show you how to roll each set of wires back into the box including theMoreProcess and i'm going to show you how to roll each set of wires back into the box including the grounds the neutrals. And the hots as well as how to do any pigtails that may be. Needed at the switch.

How tall is a light switch?

The 48-inch standard works well for anyone aged 12 and above. For light switch installations in rooms used primarily by kids (like a new playroom), the ADA recommends different ranges for minimum outlet and light switch heights:

How high should a light switch be above the ground?

18 to 40 inches above the floor for ages 5 to 8. 16 to 44 inches above the floor for ages 9 through 12. Likewise, if some adults in your household are of a more petite stature that prevents them from easily accessing a light switch positioned 48 inches off the ground, consider reducing the height to something lower within ...

NEC Switch Height Regulations

The National Electrical Code (NEC) specifies home wiring requirements, but when it comes to standard light switch height, it leaves a lot of room for flexibility. The decision will ultimately come down to the individual homeowner’s needs as well as local electrical codes, which vary.

ADA Height for Light Switches

The homepage for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) details very specific and helpful guidelines for switch placement when considering individuals who need special accommodations. For example, locating switches closer to the floor can make them more comfortable for some people in wheelchairs to reach.

Kitchen Light Switch Standard Height

For light switches and garbage disposal switches that'll be located above a kitchen counter, it’s standard practice to install them approximately 4 inches above the countertop. Since the standard height for most countertops is 36 inches, that places the bottom of the switch plate 40 inches from the floor.

Other Light Switch Placement Considerations

For hot tubs, the NEC dictates that switches be at least 5 feet away, so that it's impossible to touch a switch while in water. Also, if you have small children in your home, you might want to install your hot tub switch higher so they can’t turn the tub on and off.

Why use a larger switch cover plate?

Use of a larger switch or outlet cover plate can save time and effort in non-standard applications where you would otherwise have to patch, sand, and/or repaint the wall around an outlet or switch to use a standard plate.

What is a combination switch and outlet cover plate?

Combination switch and outlet cover plates (for example a toggle switch and outlet or a toggle and rocker switch) Ganged wall switch and outlet cover plates (to cover two, three, or four switches or outlets in a row)

What is a single and ganged switch?

Tip. There are single and ganged switches and outlet cover plates that also protect USB ports and other data jacks located directly on the wall or other surfaces.

What is a wall switch plate?

Wall switches and outlet cover plates cover switches and outlets on walls and also those built into furniture, such as kitchen islands or other types of cabinetry. There are a few types of switch and plate covers, including: Toggle wall switch plates for switches that flip up and down.

What are the different types of switch plates?

Wall switches and outlet cover plates cover switches and outlets on walls and also those built into furniture, such as kitchen islands or other types of cabinetry. There are a few types of switch and plate covers, including: 1 Toggle wall switch plates for switches that flip up and down 2 Rocker wall switch plates, with a large rectangular opening, work with rocker, dimmer, slide, and tap switches 3 Outlet cover plates 4 Combination switch and outlet cover plates (for example a toggle switch and outlet or a toggle and rocker switch) 5 Ganged wall switch and outlet cover plates (to cover two, three, or four switches or outlets in a row)

What are thermoplastic cover plates made of?

Thermoplastic cover plates are made of durable nylon that won't typically crack. They typically come in standard colors such as white, beige, black, and other neutral colors.

Light Switchplates Size Terms

GANG - The term "gang" refers to the width of the plate. A standard single-gang plate is 2-3/4" wide and houses 1 device. A 2-gang plate is 4-1/2" wide and houses 2 devices. A 3-gang plate houses 3 devices, and so on.

Switchplate Configuration Descriptions

Uses: toggle flip switches, toggle slide dimmers, locking switches, and other small rectangular devices

Switchplate Sizes and Overall Dimensions

Regular Switchplates are a standard 4-1/2" high and 5/32" deep; width varies based on the number of gangs:

Switchplate Screw Positions and Length

The following screw positions are standard on all brands of switch plates including Leviton Decora switch plates, Pass and Seymour wall plates, Brainerd, etc. The screw holes themselves are 5/16" across at the top and taper to a 3/16" opening at the botton.

Phone Jack Switchplates - Telephone Wall Plates

Telephone Jack 1, 2 and 3 plates are 2-3/4" W x 4-1/2" H x 1/8" D with 9/16" W x 3/4" H rectangular modular phone jack openings. Screw holes are spaced 3-5/16" apart from center to center on Telephone Jack 1, 2 and 3 plates.

Finishes and Colors

Cleaning - Switchplates are all metal, come with matching screws and may be cleaned with dusting spray applied to a soft clean cloth.

What is a switchplate cover?

Switchplate covers are one of the things to consider when enhancing your home décor. However, there are certain things to consider such as the right size for a switch outlet cover. There are factors to consider when selecting the right switch outlet cover for your home such as color and orientation. The following is a basic guide to help you ...

How many plate covers do I need for a house?

Make a List. When remodeling or changing a home décor, every room in the house requires two to three wall plate covers. Ensure to indicate how many plate covers will be enough before purchasing. By knowing how may plate cover you need for the whole house, you'll be able to account for the cost.

What is the difference between a duplex and a decora switch?

For instance, there a Decora switch outlet cover and a duplex outlet cover. Both covers are different in that, the Decora outlet is used for two receptacles, while the duplex outlet is used for one receptacle. Yet both types of outlets come in three different sizes.

Can a light outlet cover be rotated?

For instance, a normal light outlet cover can be rotated in all directions since it doesn't have any significant design on top of the cover. Therefore, select the right size, and the type of orientation that matches your taste and preference.

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1.Light Switch Cover Dimensions (with Pictures)

Url:https://upgradedhome.com/light-switch-cover-dimensions/

23 hours ago The basic standard-sized light switch cover is the most widely used cover plate– found in every electrified building. These cover plates measure 4.5 inches high and 2.75 inches wide and are the industry standard.

2.The Ideal Light Switch Height for Any Room, Solved! - Bob …

Url:https://www.bobvila.com/articles/light-switch-height/

18 hours ago If you want a light switch cover a little bigger than a standard light switch plate, then go for a midway light switch cover. This light switch cover is a little more extensive, with a length of 5.06 inches or approximately 13 centimeters and a width from side to side of 3.25 inches or about 8 centimeters. Oversized Outlet Cover Size

3.Light Switch Height Requirements - Lowe's

Url:https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/light-switch-height-requirements

36 hours ago  · 1 Amazon Basics Light Switch Cover. 2 Bates Choice Light Switch Cover. 3 Leviton Light Switch Cover. 4 ENERLITES Light Switch Cover. 5 Franklin Brass Light Switch Cover. Improving on your switch plate game shouldn't be too difficult if done the right way. There is no reason why you should be stuck with standard, boring white light switches, and ...

4.Wall Switch and Outlet Cover Plate Dimensions - The …

Url:https://www.thespruce.com/wall-switch-outlet-cover-plate-options-1825055

28 hours ago Use a ruler or a level to draw a line between the two marks you just made. This will be your cutting line. 6. Drill a Hole in the Exact Center of the Cutting Line. Once you have marked the line to be cut, hold the cover-up to a light to make sure the mark is in the exact center of the cover.

5.Light Switch Plate, Outlet Cover, Decora Rocker Size …

Url:https://www.kyleswitchplates.com/switch-plate-size-reference-information/

25 hours ago

6.Choosing the Right Size for Switch Outlet Covers

Url:https://www.wallplatewarehouse.com/blogs/news/choosing-the-right-size-for-switch-outlet-covers

34 hours ago

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