repairing wall around back box

[securespark]

If the crack moves when you move the cable, doesn't that imply that the mortar is not dry?

I would change that screw for one less sharp and protrusive.

Edited for clarity.

 

[sparkwright]

The cable hasn't been fixed to the wall securely, that's why the mortar cracks.

Is the mortar everywhere else firm? Or has it dried out to be soft and crumbly?

Did you wet the wall before applying the mortar??

 

[JohnW2]

Did you wet the wall before applying the mortar??

Good question, and the answer appears to be:

... I did dampen before but maybe not enough.

Kind Regards, John

 

[Lindsey Wilkinson]

It still looks dark so maybe not completely dry but is firm. Although surface brushes off!

 

[phatboy]

Often found the ready mix stuff to be weak, they seem to be light on the cement part. I usually use Hardwall, but only available in 25kg

 

[sparkwright]

Ready mix stuff absolutely no good at all for filling chases and around boxes. Or anything really.

 

[Lindsey Wilkinson]

So my question now is do I have to dig it all out or just the chasing that's cracked and refill that with my top coat filler?

 

[sparkwright]

Dig out whatever is loose or not firm.

 

[Lindsey Wilkinson]

Please excuse what maybe very stupid questions. But do I fill behind the wires as well as in front and should I connect the switch facia to thw wires first to eliminate wire movement once filled?

 

[sparkwright]

You clip the cable to the brickwork with one or two cable clips.

The cable needs to be against the brickwork, so the mortar covers the cable by at least 4mm, to reduce cracking.

So you you will fill over and round the sides of the cable, so no filler behind the cable.

Connect the faceplate after you are satisfied with the filling, once the filler has set.

 

[Lindsey Wilkinson]

All done and working although slightly wonky (I did use a mini spirit level but obviously not very well ). So thanks for your help boys!

 

[Lindsey Wilkinson]

 

[333rocky333]

The box has an adjustable lug so you could level the front up if needbe.
Best to switch it off first though.

 

[Lindsey Wilkinson]

Can you tell me more please?

 

[Deleted member 267285]

All done and working although slightly wonky (I did use a mini spirit level but obviously not very well ). So thanks for your help boys!

Seen a lot worse by some “professionals”. Well done you