Choosing The Right Screw Size For 4-Gang Cover Plates

Wall plates, also known as switch plates, are used to cover electrical outlets and light switches, keeping wires out of sight and preventing accidental contact. These plates come in various colours and materials to match the decor of a room. The size of a wall plate is determined by the number of gangs it has, where a gang refers to the number of side-by-side elements. For example, a two-gang duplex outlet plate has two duplex openings side by side, resulting in a total of four openings. The most common outlet wall plates are duplex outlet plates, which have two openings for outlets stacked vertically. The standard household outlet is a single-gang duplex receptacle, meaning it has a total of two outlets. Two-gang, three-gang, and four-gang plates are also commonly used in households, while commercial buildings often use plates with five or more gangs.

When it comes to screw sizes for a 4-gang cover plate, the specific screw size will depend on the type of mounting. The three main types of mounting are box mount, strap/Decora mount, and device/light switch mount. Box mount screws typically have a spacing of 3.281 inches (8.33 cm) between the centres of the screws. Strap/Decora mount screws have a spacing of 3.812 inches (9.68 cm), while device/light switch mount screws have a spacing of 2.375 inches (6.03 cm). In general, switch plate screws have a thread diameter of #6 and 32 threads per inch, with a countersunk angle of 82. The length of the screw will depend on the device being covered, with screws ranging from 5/16 inch to 1/2 inch in length.

Screw hole spacing for 4-gang cover plates

When it comes to screw hole spacing for 4-gang cover plates, there are a few standard measurements to be aware of. Firstly, it's important to note that screw hole spacing is typically measured from the centre of one screw hole to the centre of the next. This is referred to as centre-to-centre measurement.

Now, onto the specific screw hole spacing for 4-gang cover plates. The spacing will depend on the type of mounting:

• Box Mount: This type of mounting involves attaching the cover plate directly to a gang box. The standard mounting hole spacing for box mounts is 3.281" (8.33 cm) centre-to-centre. This is the most common type of mounting for 4-gang cover plates.
• Strap/Decora Mount: This type of mounting uses an intermediary component, such as a Decora insert, that attaches to the gang box. The standard mounting hole spacing for strap/Decora mounts is 3.812" (9.68 cm) centre-to-centre.
• Device/Light Switch Mount: This type of mounting involves attaching the cover plate directly to an intermediary device, such as a light switch. The standard mounting hole spacing for device/light switch mounts is 2.375" (6.03 cm) centre-to-centre.

It's worth noting that in multi-gang configurations, such as 4-gang cover plates, the mounting holes are typically spaced 1.81" (4.57 cm) apart horizontally.

When selecting screws for your 4-gang cover plate, it's important to consider not only the spacing but also the type of screw. Switch plate screws typically have a thread diameter of #6 and 32 threads per inch, with a countersunk angle of 82. The length of the screw will depend on the device you are covering and the type of mounting.

Screw types for 4-gang cover plates

Wall plates, also known as switch plates, cover electrical outlets and light switches, keeping wires hidden and safe. They come in a variety of colours and materials to match any room's decor.

Gangs

Gangs refer to the number of side-by-side elements, which isn't always the same as the number of openings. For example, a two-gang duplex outlet plate has two side-by-side duplex openings, giving it a total of four openings.

Screw Hole Spacing

Screw hole spacing for wall plates is measured from centre to centre. The screws for wall plates and devices have the same thread pitch, but the head of the screw and its length vary depending on the device being covered.

Types of Screw

Switch plate screws are generally 6-32 (thread diameter of #6 and 32 threads per inch). Metal screws have a countersunk angle of 82. The length of the screw will vary depending on the device you are covering.

• Phillips/slotted combination pan head screw: Used to mount an electrical device into a handy box. The bottom of the screw is tapered. This is an example of a self-tapping screw.
• Phillips flat head screw: Flat head electrical screws are used when the screw's head must be flush with the final surface.
• Slotted flat head screw: Similar to the Phillips flat head screw but made for a slotted screwdriver.
• Slotted oval head screw: Standard switch plate screws are typically 5/16" or 1/2" in length.
• Round slotted head screw: Used in specialty plates without round screw holes, such as dryer outlet covers.
• Plastic slotted screw: Plastic screws can be used to mount switch plates when heat transfer from metal screws may cause plastic plates to warp.
• Spanner head screw: A special tamper-proof screw that requires a special screwdriver to screw and unscrew.
• Rosette head screw: A tamper-proof screw used with a specialised screwdriver for installation.

Screw Length

The length of the screw will vary depending on the type of plate being used:

• Strap mount plates: 5/16" (rocker, Despard, vintage low voltage)
• Box or device mount plates: 1/2" (toggle, duplex, blank, simplex)

Screw length for 4-gang cover plates

When selecting the right screw length for 4-gang cover plates, it's important to consider the type of mounting and the dimensions of the plate and screws. Here are some detailed guidelines to help you choose the appropriate screw length:

Mounting Type: The mounting type of your 4-gang cover plate will determine the appropriate screw length. The three common types of mounting are Box Mount, Strap/Decora Mount, and Device/Light Switch Mount:

• Box Mount: 4-gang cover plates with a Box Mount attachment have screws that attach directly to the gang box. The standard mounting hole spacing for this type is 3.281" (8.33 cm), and the typical screw length provided is 1/2" (0.5").
• Strap/Decora Mount: This type of mounting uses an intermediary component, such as a Decora-style insert, between the cover plate and the gang box. The mounting hole spacing is 3.812" (9.68 cm), and the screw length is usually 1/4" to 5/16" (0.25" to 0.31").
• Device/Light Switch Mount: This mounting type attaches the cover plate directly to the device, such as a light switch. The mounting hole spacing is 2.375" (6.03 cm), and the standard screw length is 1/2" (0.5").

• Screw Dimensions: It's important to understand the dimensions of the screws used for 4-gang cover plates. The standard screw size for switch plates is 6-32, which indicates a thread diameter of #6 and 32 threads per inch. The length of the screw will vary depending on the mounting type and the device being covered. The most common screw lengths for wall plates are 5/16" (0.31") and 1/2" (0.5").
• Gang Configuration: Keep in mind that the gang configuration can affect the spacing between screws. In a 4-gang configuration, the mounting holes are typically located 1.81" (4.57 cm) apart horizontally. This spacing is consistent across multiple-gang plates, ensuring that the width between devices remains uniform.
• Cover Plate Size: The size of the cover plate can also influence the appropriate screw length. Standard 4-gang cover plates have specific dimensions, such as a height of 4.5" (11.43 cm) and varying widths depending on the manufacturer. When selecting screws, ensure they are long enough to secure the cover plate properly without being too long that they protrude or hit the wall surface underneath.
• Special Considerations: In some cases, you may need to use unique screws with unusual heads to hinder the removal of the screws. These tamper-proof screws require special screwdrivers for installation or removal and are available in various lengths to accommodate different mounting types.

By considering the mounting type, screw dimensions, gang configuration, cover plate size, and any special considerations, you can choose the appropriate screw length for your 4-gang cover plates. Remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines for proper installation.

Screw head types for 4-gang cover plates

Overview

When selecting a screw head type for a 4-gang cover plate, it's important to consider the specific requirements of your project. The type of screw head can impact the aesthetics, functionality, and ease of installation of the cover plate. Here are some common screw head types and their characteristics:

Flat Head Screws

Flat head screws are designed to sit flush with the surface of the cover plate. They are commonly used in applications where a smooth and unobtrusive finish is desired. Flat head screws typically have a Phillips or slotted drive type, ensuring a secure and precise fit.

Oval Head Screws

Oval head screws are standard for switch plates and are typically available in lengths of 5/16" or 1/2". They feature a countersunk angle of 82 degrees, which allows them to sit securely within the screw hole. Oval head screws are commonly used with electrical handy boxes or masonry boxes.

Round Slotted Head Screws

Round slotted head screws are designed for specialty plates that lack traditional round screw holes. They are commonly used with dryer outlet covers or other similar applications.

Plastic Slotted Screws

Plastic slotted screws are made of plastic instead of metal and are used to prevent heat transfer that could cause warping in plastic plates. They are a good option for mounting switch plates when using metal screws is not ideal.

Spanner Head Screws

Spanner head screws are a type of tamper-proof screw that requires a special screwdriver for installation and removal. They provide added security and are often used in applications where vandalism or unauthorized access is a concern.

Rosette Head Screws

Rosette head screws are another type of tamper-proof screw that offers a decorative appearance. They require a specialized screwdriver for installation and are often chosen for their aesthetic appeal as well as their security features.

Considerations

When selecting the appropriate screw head type for a 4-gang cover plate, it's important to consider the material of the plate, the desired level of security, and the overall aesthetics of the installation. Additionally, the length of the screws should be chosen based on the specific device being covered to ensure a secure fit.

Screw sizes for 4-gang cover plates

When selecting a screw size for a 4-gang cover plate, it's important to consider the type of plate and its mounting style. Here are some detailed guidelines:

Box Mount:

This style attaches the 4-gang cover plate directly to a gang box. The mounting hole spacing for box mount plates is typically 3.281" (8.33 cm). The standard screw size provided for this type of mounting is 1/2" long screws. This screw length is suitable for most applications, but if your box is recessed into the wall, you may need longer screws.

Strap/Decora Mount:

This style attaches the cover plate to an intermediary component, such as a Decora-style insert, which then attaches to the gang box. The mounting hole spacing for this type of mounting is 3.812" (9.68 cm). The standard wall plate screws included for these openings are 1/4" to 5/16" long. The shorter 1/4" length was traditionally used to avoid contact with the wall surface behind the screw holes, but the newer 5/16" length is now preferred for better grip.

Multi-Gang Mount Spacing:

In a 4-gang configuration, the mounting holes are typically located 1.81" (4.57 cm) horizontally apart. This spacing is consistent across multi-gang plates, including 2-gang and 3-gang setups.

Screw Types:

Switch plate screws generally have a thread diameter of #6 and 32 threads per inch, denoted as 6-32. The length of the screw will depend on the device you are covering. For example, 5/16" screws are typically used for rocker, Despard, and vintage low voltage plates, while 1/2" screws are used for toggle, duplex, blank, and simplex plates. Phillips, slotted, combination, and tamper-proof head types are available, each requiring a specific type of screwdriver.

Frequently asked questions