Use a screwdriver set when installing an electrical outlet.
Drywall, also known as gypsum board, plasterboard or wall board, is constructed of gypsum plaster that is sandwiched between two pieces of paper. Gypsum board ranges in thickness from 1/4 to 5/8 of an inch. You can cut drywall with relative ease by hand using a utility knife or a keyhole saw. Use power tools such as a router or drill equipped with the appropriate cutting bit if you have them. You can cut the holes next to or far away from wall studs, since there are electrical boxes, also known as old-work boxes, designed to sandwich the drywall between adjustable tabs.
Instructions
1. Determine where to place the electrical outlet. Inspect the area to make sure no wall studs will be directly behind the installation area of the electrical box. Use a stud finder or tap the wall with a hammer to locate the solid backing of a stud.
2. Inspect the electrical box to make sure the adjustable swing-out tabs are facing inward. Place the electrical box against the drywall in the location where the hole will be made. Trace along the outside edge of the box using a pencil.
3. Extend fully the blade of a utility knife. Scribe along the traced lines with the utility knife. Apply more pressure to the body of the utility knife and continue cutting along the scribed lines until the blade fully penetrates the drywall material. Remove the cut-out piece.
4. Pull the electrical wires through the hole you cut in the wall. Punch out one of the electrical box's removable caps and pull the wires through before inserting the old-work electrical box into the hole.
5. Slide the box into the hole until the outside tabs are resting against the drywall. Turn the screw fasteners with the appropriate screwdriver to make the inside tabs swing out behind the drywall. Continue turning the screw fasteners until the inside tabs make contact with the drywall.
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