How To Fix an Electrical Box Cutout That’s Too Big

Here's a fast fix for a common goof.

Next Project
Time

A day

Complexity

Beginner

Cost

$10 to $30

Introduction

An oversized drywall cutout around an electrical box can ruin the appearance of an otherwise perfect taping job. The best way to fix it is with drywall compound and joint tape.

Tools Required

  • Dust mask
  • Taping knife
  • Utility knife

Materials Required

  • Lightweight joint compound
  • Medium grit sanding sponge
  • Paper joint tape
  • Setting-type joint compound

Permanent Repair

If you’re doing your own drywall and electrical work, some mistakes are easy to make. Maybe you measured wrong. Or maybe you just got a little carried away while cutting.

Whatever the issue, now you have to find a way to fix an electrical box cutout that’s too big. If you don’t, you’ll leave the outlets unprotected.

Sure, you can cover your mistake with jumbo electrical covers. But that doesn’t look very nice, especially compared to other boxes nearby. Fortunately, it’s not hard to fix this the right way and have your outlets look polished. Try this simple tip and no one will be the wiser.

Project step-by-step (3)

Step 1

Fill with setting-type compound

First, bevel the edge of the drywall with a utility knife. Then fill in the gap with fast-setting joint compound.

Filling the Gap of Electrical Box Cutout with Fast-Setting Joint CompoundTMB Studio

Step 2

Mud and tape

Spread the fast-setting compound into the gap and surrounding area and embed the tape right up to the edge of the electrical box. Let it set up and apply the final two coats of lightweight compound. Once it’s set, sand the area with a medium-grit sanding sponge.

Filling the Gap of Electrical Box Cutout with Fast-Setting Joint CompoundTMB Studio

Step 3

Repaint the repaired part of the wall

Once you’ve finished sanding, repaint the repaired part of the wall and you’re done!

You might have made a common mistake, but it’s an easy enough fix, and no one will tell that the electrical box cutout was too big. And you didn’t have to spring for extra outlet covers.