How to Install a Receptacle Box Between Studs

During the initial construction stages of your home or before you install finished walls to a space like the basement or attic, you can easily install a receptacle box between studs. However, if the walls are already finished and the drywall is up, you will need to first cut through the drywall before you can install the receptacle box between the studs. Of course, the very first thing you will have to do is locate the studs.

Stud finder
Pencil
Masking tape
Utility knife
Drywall saw
Drill
Screwdriver

Instructions

- 1
  Locate the studs behind your drywall by using an electronic stud finder. You can also tap gently on the wall to find the solid, rather than hollow sound. Studs are located about 16 to 24 inches apart.
- 2
  Plan your cut. The receptacle box needs to be installed right up against one of the wall studs. Trace an outline the size of the box against one of the wall studs you found. Plan to install the receptacle box 12 to 18 inches up from the floor.
- 3
  Place strips of masking tape around the line you traced. This helps you get a better cut. Run a utility knife along the lines to score the drywall.
- 4
  Finish cutting out the piece using a drywall saw. Pull out the piece of drywall and set it aside.
- 5
  Insert the receptacle box into the hole. The side brackets for the box should be resting against the wall stud.
- 6
  Mark the location on the stud where the bracket screw holes are located. Drill pilot holes into the stud.
- 7
  Secure the receptacle box to the stud using the provided screws and a screwdriver. The screws can be installed right into the pilot holes you drilled.

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