The Right Screw Size For Your Electrical Faceplate

When installing or replacing electrical faceplates, it's important to use the correct type and size of screws to ensure a secure fit. The standard screw type for electrical outlets and switches is a flat-head machine screw, which can be either Phillips or slotted. Cover plates typically use oval head screws, which have a slightly rounded head. The standard screw gauge for home electrical applications is #6, referring to the diameter of the screw, and the standard thread count is 32, meaning there are 32 threads per inch of shaft. Screw lengths vary depending on the application, with cover plates typically using shorter screws (around 5/16) and switches and outlets using longer screws (usually 1 long). Extended screws are available for recessed outlets or electrical boxes with added wall thickness.

#6-32 x 5/16″ Oval Head Machine Screw

When it comes to electrical faceplate screw sizes, the standard gauge size for home electrical outlets, boxes, switches, and cover plates is #6, which refers to the diameter of the screw. The #6-32 x 5/16″ Oval Head Machine Screw is specifically designed for cover plates and is included with electrical cover plates for switches and outlets.

The "32" in the screw size designation indicates the thread count, meaning there are 32 threads per inch of shaft on this screw. This is the standard thread count for electrical screws. The "5/16″" refers to the length of the screw, which is the standard length for cover plate screws.

The "Oval Head" description signifies that the screw head has a slightly rounded shape, resembling a flat head screw but with a gentle curve. This design is typical for cover plates, providing a secure fit and a more refined appearance.

The #6-32 x 5/16″ Oval Head Machine Screw is readily available for purchase at hardware stores or online retailers, ensuring you can easily find the correct screw for your electrical faceplate installations or replacements. This specific screw size and type is tailored for cover plates, providing a secure and aesthetically pleasing solution for your electrical projects.

#6-32 x 1″ Flat Head Machine Screw

When it comes to electrical faceplate screw sizes, the #6-32 x 1" Flat Head Machine Screw is a versatile option. This screw is designed as a straight fastener, ideal for binding metal to metal through insertion into a pre-tapped opening. Its standard electrical grade and availability in multiple finishes make it a common choice for electrical applications.

The #6-32 x 1" Flat Head Machine Screw features a Phillips flat head, providing a convenient and widely compatible fastening option. The head of the screw has an 82° bevel underneath, contributing to a secure and flush fit. This screw is fully threaded for maximum grip strength, ensuring a strong and reliable hold.

Everbilt offers the #6-32 x 1" Flat Head Machine Screw in both stainless steel and zinc-plated finishes. The stainless steel option is available in packs of 4, 6, and 25, catering to various project needs. The zinc-plated screws are also available in packs of 8, providing corrosion resistance and a visually appealing finish.

With a length of 1" and a diameter of #6-32, this screw size is commonly used for electrical faceplates and other applications. It's important to note that electrical faceplate screw sizes can vary, and it's always recommended to check the specific requirements of your project before selecting the appropriate screw size and type.

Overall, the #6-32 x 1" Flat Head Machine Screw is a versatile and functional option for electrical faceplates, offering maximum grip strength, compatibility, and a secure fit.

#6-32 Thread

#6-32 screws are commonly used for switch plates, outlet covers, and electrical wall plates. They typically have a thread diameter of #6 and 32 threads per inch. The specific dimensions of a #6 screw are a diameter of 0.138" (or 9/64", a little over 1/8", or 3.505 mm) and a pitch of 0.794".

Wall plate screws are available in a variety of lengths and colours, including ivory, white, and almond. They can be purchased in kits with multiple compartments, such as the LH Dottie APS2, which features 450 assorted 6-32 wall plate screws. The Adamax 6/32 in. Screws Wall Plate Screw Assortment is another option, offering 300 screws in a compartmentalized plastic container.

#6-32 screws are also available in longer lengths, such as 3/4", 1", and even 1-1/2" for extra-long outlet screws. These longer screws are useful for mounting electrical devices or for use as extension screws for wonky or sunken outlets.

In terms of head type, #6-32 screws can have a flat, round oval, or pan head. The head type can be Phillips, slotted, combination, or tamper-proof.

3/8, 1/2, 3/4, 1 lengths

When it comes to electrical faceplate screw sizes, the length of the screw will depend on the type of plate and device being used. The two most common sizes of wall plate screws are 5/16" and 1/2".

For 3/8" screws:

• These are typically used for centre mount plates, such as standard duplex outlet plates or round ceiling blank-up covers.
• They are also used for interchangeable, block or strap mount plates, which include Decora rocker covers, Despard switch plates, and many low-voltage wall plates.
• 3/8" screws are also available in packs of assorted sizes for wall plate screws.

For 1/2" screws:

• This is the standard length for toggle, duplex, and blank plates.
• They are also used for box mount plates, which are typical for blank or louvered wall plates, and phone or cable covers.
• 1/2" screws are also used for large ceiling box mount plates, which are used for round cover plates for larger (4") round or octagonal ceiling boxes.
• They can be purchased in metal or plastic.

For 3/4" screws:

• These are considered a specialty size and are used for round plates.
• They are also used for box mounting, where the plate is screwed directly into tabs on the handy box.
• 3/4" screws are available in black or white and in packs of assorted sizes.

For 1" screws:

• These longer screws are used when the box is recessed into the wall.
• They are also available in packs of assorted sizes for wall plate screws.

Phillips or slotted screw

When it comes to electrical faceplate screw sizes, slotted screws are a common choice. These screws feature a single horizontal indentation, known as the slot, which is driven by a flat-bladed screwdriver. This design was the first type of screw drive developed and, for centuries, it was the simplest and cheapest to manufacture. Slotted screws are often used in simple carpentry work and applications where minimal torque is needed.

One advantage of slotted screws is that they can be driven with a simple hand tool, making them a good option for situations where power tools are not available. Additionally, the slot head is straightforward to manufacture, and slotted screws are commonly found in existing products and installations.

However, slotted screws have some drawbacks. They are not well-suited for installation by power tools, as the driver can cam out of the slot, causing damage to the screw and surrounding material. This can be frustrating and time-consuming, especially when working with a large number of screws.

As a result, other types of screw drives, such as Phillips and Torx, have replaced the slot drive in many applications. These designs offer improved torque transfer and reduced cam-out potential, making them more suitable for certain types of work.

Phillips screws, for example, feature a cross-shaped recess in the head and are designed to allow for more precise alignment, reducing the risk of slippage and damage. Torx screws, on the other hand, have a star-shaped recess with six rounded points, which provides increased torque transfer and extended bit life.

In conclusion, while slotted screws have the benefit of being simple and inexpensive, they may not be the best choice for all electrical faceplate screw applications. Phillips and Torx screws offer some advantages in terms of torque and cam-out resistance, making them popular alternatives. Ultimately, the choice between Phillips or slotted screws depends on the specific requirements of the project and the user's preferences.

Frequently asked questions