How to fix a gap behind an outlet faceplate
Changing an outlet often rips off the silicone putty used to shape uneven surfaces, leaving no secure way to attach the faceplate without a gap. Additionally, oversized box holes can prevent traditional outlet screws from holding the cover properly.
What people tried
Every workaround mentioned in the threads below. We haven’t tested any of them — and nobody here is claiming they worked.
- 1Using drywall putty or joint compound to fill the gap
- 2Cutting open drywall to install a new box
- 3Filling the gap with wood blocks and adding a Simpson Strong Tie Compression Tension Strap
- 4Cutting a new full height stud right under the break taking the load down to the bottom plate
- 5Extending one of the top plate boards while replacing a rotted header
In their words
Unedited, grouped by where they were said, most upvoted first within each place, each linked to the thread it came from.
“As it currently is there is an ~5 in' gap in the double top plate where wood was cut away. Part of this gap is directly above the windows' king stud, so the king stud is basically not carrying any load.”source ↗
“What is the best DIY way to fix this? (i.e. I don't want to rip out the wall and lay new 8 foot long 2x4s.)”source ↗
“From what I've researched, the fix is to fill the gap with 5in' wood blocks and add a Simpson Strong Tie Compression Tension Strap, but I don't see how that would address the vertical load issue? or would it?”source ↗
“Outlet change ripped off the silicone putty that was shaped on the top half, now there is no way to attach the faceplate without a gap.”source ↗
“I know, ridiculous hack job number 2 from previous owner, those were on there originally now the holes in the box are too wide for traditional outlet screws.”source ↗
Where this came up
People with this problem also raised
- 5How to fix a towel rack ripped out of drywall
- 3How to fix gaps under door jambs after new flooring
- 2How to fix flooring gaps after removing a wall
- 3How to fix a PVC drain pipe broken flush against the wall
- 4Should I finish mudding drywall where wooden trim was removed myself?
- 3Stud finder mistakes refrigerant line for stud when hanging shelves