ArtByTR Posting Page
Friday, March 13, 2009

Why go through the planning, effort, and expense of making your home or office look fabulous…and then put plastic switchplates on your walls? Decorative switchplates are a unique and artistic alternative to the same old boring light switch covers that you see everywhere.

THE ADVANTAGES OF DECORATIVE SWITCHPLATES

Decorative switchplates transform boring functional objects that are on your walls throughout your home into fantastic works of art.

Decorative switchplates are often available in a wide variety of sizes and configurations. Sizes can range from “standard” to “mid-sized” to “oversized.” Oversized plates are very useful if your electrician has created an opening that cannot be covered by standard sized switchplates. As an example, a single toggle standard plate is 2.75 inches wide and 4.5 inches high while the oversize version is 3.5 inches wide and 5.25 inches tall.

Decorative switchplates are an economical way to introduce art into every room of your home.

Some decorative switchplate manufacturers can custom design switchplates for you based upon your unique specifications (color palette, configuration, design, etc). This saves you significant time searching for just the right switchplate.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN DECORATIVE SWITCHPLATES

* Stainless steel switchplate bases are preferable because of their durability. Plastic plates can crack if screwed too tight.

* The varnish used is critical to the longevity of your decorative switchplates. Purchase switchplates with durable varnish that creates a UV, water, and stain resistant surface. Well varnished switchplates should be able to be wiped off with a wet sponge or rag.

* Switchplate screws should be provided…and painted to match the design of your switchplate.

* Buy from a company that guarantees your satisfaction and will refund or exchange your plates if needed.

* Buy from a company that can create similar switchplates in a variety of sizes/configurations if you want to display several in one area.

* If you have an extremely rare switchplate configuration in your home (this can be true in older houses), find a company willing to have you send your plate to them to work on. There are times when this is the only option.

INSTALLING YOUR NEW SWITCHPLATE

It’s as easy as unscrewing your old plate and screwing your new one on. It shouldn’t take more than a minute or so!

WHAT ABOUT THE PLASTIC TOGGLE THAT COMES THROUGH ONCE YOU INSTALL YOUR DECORATIVE SWITCHPLATE?

Some people are bothered by this. It’s true that a fabulous decorative switchplate can look wonderful off the wall, but can lose some of its appeal once installed because of the white plastic toggle or switch that comes through. We suggest the following:

1. Remove your switchplate and tape newspaper around the electrical opening to protect your walls

2. Spray the plastic toggle with a plastic spray primer that can be found at hardware stores. Let dry.

3. Spray paint the plastic toggle with a color that compliments your switchplate. We suggest several light coats. Let dry.

4. Apply a few coats of spray varnish. Let dry.

5. Now install your switchplate and admire the new look!

Decorative Switchplates: An Affordable Way to Introduce Art Into Every Room of Your Home - Brielle Designs Decorative Switchplates http://www.brielledesigns.com



by: ArtByTR

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