electrics

[adman]

I've moved into a new house which has 'flush' chrome electric sockets. However, these are not flush with the plastering. They protrude by 5/6mm. There is a plastic frame each socket which has been painted over.

I told the builder that the fittings should be flush and the plastic surround should have been removed after the wall was plastered. The builder has told me that the plastic is a safety device and must remain.

Is this true or can I safely remove the plastic and fit the sockets flush?

 

[Taylortwocities]

It depends on what sort of wall it is.

If it is a plasterboard/stud wall then you cannot remove the surround as the box will just fall into the cavity.

You have probably got these http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/MTMDLB2.html

There are special ones for flat plate accesories
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Products/MTFDLB2.html

So you could change the back boxes over, if that will sort the problem.

If not, unscrew one of the sockets (with the power off!) and take a picutre so we can see what you are dealing with.

 

[FDJ]

I've moved into a new house which has 'flush' chrome electric sockets. However, these are not flush with the plastering. They protrude by 5/6mm. There is a plastic frame each socket which has been painted over.

Your builder is correct.
This type of fitting is not designed to be flush with the plaster and the plastic "frames" should stay put but I would have removed before painting, then replaced.
Frank

 

[wingcoax]

Reading the instructions will normally say they must be fitted to prevent reaction with the plaster wrecking the finish of the fitting.

 

[securespark]

But drylining boxes lips don't protrude 5 or 6 mm???

The only other thing I can think of is the plastic gasket that keeps the metal off the wall.

Can the OP post a picture so we can see what's what, please?

 

[adman]

Thanks for your all your replies...interesting.

What I didn't say was that we had to have one socket moved. The electrician cut out a new hole in plaster, moved the socket and fitted it flush to the wall, leaving off the plastic. He said that's how it should be fitted and that socket looks much better than all the others (just wish I had asked him to look at all the remaining light switches and sockets)!

 

[martinxxxxxx]

I get the feeling that the boxes are not deep enough and 5mm white plastic spacers have been fitted. As opposed to the clear plastic 0.4mm thick ones that come with these fittings.

Some photos would be useful

 

[Taylortwocities]

unscrew one of the sockets (with the power off!) and take a picutre so we can see what you are dealing with.

I did ask.............