On Sun, 22 Jan 2006 17:34:11 GMT, "ameijers"
wrote:


"camou" camou@camou wrote in message
...
The contractor put new drywall over the old one I had. I now have about
3/4" of drywall. But all the old electrical boxes(metal) are now very
recessed to the point I have to bring out the switches and outlets with
spacers. THe only problem here is that now, the guts of the switchs and
outlets that were before inside the metal boxes now are near the cut
areas of the drywall opening.

Is this a fire hazard? Many switches spark when turned on or off.

What should I use to fire fire proof the Sheetrock around the switch or
outlet? The metal boxes don't come all the way the out to protect around
the Sheetrock.

Should I user silicone? Metal/foil duct tape?

Any help appreciated!!

With sheetrock walls, a miniscule fire hazard, unless a switch or outlet
explodes and showers sparks into the wall cavity. However, most places, it
is a code violation. They sell, very cheaply, plastic box extenders that
don't even require undoing the wiring screws. Just turn off breaker, pull
device from wall (you may have to enlarge the drywall hole a little), work
the extender over the device, and screw it all back together. I had to
install several in the this place when I bought it, due to several
idiot/lazy modifications previous owners made. Takes maybe 10 minutes per
box. Your drywall guy was a twit- he should have installed metal extender
rings as he put up the drywall, or at least explained the situation to you.
If you make an oopsie and make the drywall hole too big, or the flange on
the extender sticks past cover plate, they also make oversize cover plates
now to hide all that.

aem sends...


Sheetrock does not burn. There are millions of outlets and switches
improperly installed like this in the world. However, to be legal
with the code, get extenders. Use metal ones for metal boxes, plastic
for plastic. They are cheap, easy to install. No biggie....
Dont forget to get extra long #6 screws too. (In your case, 3/4"
longer than the original).