Switch Plate Covers, Wall Plates, Cover Plates, Electrical Outlet Covers – Understanding Home Hardware
There are a lot of names used for one particular type of home hardware that consists of a flush mounted plate that is attached to the wall and covers an electrical outlet or switch. It serves the purpose of concealing the hole in the wall and protecting the wires inside from dust and damage. This is also a safety feature to prevent fingers or other objects from being jammed into the outlet (although this is not the same as “baby proofing” outlets with specially designed covers).
Cover plates are a simple design that can be attached to any wall with small mounting screws. Understanding the type of plates available for the home is important before buying any large quantity of plates – this is referred to as “configurations”. Go through your home (or business) and make a list of the different types of electrical outlets and switches that require covers and the quantity of each needed (a simple tally will work well for this). After the list is completed it is time to search for a switch plate style.
Electrical covers can be the most overlooked area of home design because they are readily available in many cheap materials (such as plastic). Taking advantage of the opportunity to introduce new patterns or enhance an existing theme however is a great way to tie the look of your home together better than most people imagine. It is in the smaller details that a house becomes a home and electrical covers are a big part of that.
Designs range from basic rectangular covers with no designs however to extremely ornate patterns that have been cast from heavy duty materials such as brass. Switch plate designs can vary from room to room to coordinate with different decorating themes – using a nautical theme plate in the bathroom can be a wonderful whimsical touch while using a reproduction Victorian design in the living room can be extremely elegant. Try to coordinate your new cover plate finish with the dominate finish of your other home hardware to create a unified look. Note: not all materials are available in every finish so check first before committing to a particular style.
Configurations
A cover plate is most commonly used for switches and outlets around the home or office. Standard switch plates can range from a single (1P) configuration up to accommodating 5 (5P) switches. Larger switch plates may be available – check with the manufacturer for specific size availability.
Outlet covers (1O)
These are designed to cover outlet plugs and come in a variety of configurations – including multi switch and outlet combined. This a common style used in bathrooms where outlets and light switches are close together.
Toggle/Rocker Switch Covers (1R)
This is a large rectangle configuration allows for toggle or rocker switches. This is also available with single switch and outlet configurations
Phone/Cable Covers
These consist of a small hole drilled out in the center of the plate. These are not interchangeable however so be sure to select the appropriate style for a phone line or cable wire.
About the Author
Kohn Coleman born in Michigan – received his Ph.D. from Iowa State University in 2000 – currently leads several online companies and ventures.
Electronic motion Sensor outlet plug patent for sale/license #7330115
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