How to Build Walls Around a Breaker Box

Measure 6 inches beyond each side of the breaker box and mark the wall. Mark a line from ceiling to floor along these lines, vertically on the wall. Use a level to ensure the lines are straight, and measure the distance between them with a measuring tape to be sure they are the same distance apart at the top, center and bottom of the wall.

Mark the area for the new wall on the ceiling. From the marked points on the wall, start at the edge of the ceiling and measure away from the wall 12 inches. Use a level to ensure the lines are straight, and measure between the two to be sure they are the same distance at the furthermost point on the ceiling as they are by the wall. Connect the two lines at their farthest point to create a rectangle on the ceiling.

Cut out the marked wall and ceiling areas. Use a utility knife to make an initial cut in the wall. Carefully cut out a small area to locate the wiring. Once it is located, use a reciprocating saw to cut along the lines in areas where the wires are not located. Use the utility knife to remove the areas close to the wiring, being cautious to avoid cutting any wires. Do not cut through studs or rafters. After cutting along the initial lines, pull off the ceiling and wall between the cuts by hand.

Cut four pieces of 2-by-4-inch board to match the existing wall studs. Measure between the bottom and top boards of the exposed wall frame. Place one board on each side of the breaker box approximately 2 inches out. Attach these two 2-by-4s to the top and bottom of the wall frame with L-brackets. If studs are already in place, skip this step.

Cut four 12-inch lengths of 2-by-4 for the top and bottom of the new frame and two pieces equal to the width between the new studs, using a circular saw. Align two 12-inch boards on the exposed floor, straight out from the studs. Use concrete screws to attach them to the floor. Connect the two floor framing boards with one of the width-cut boards to form a box. Repeat this action on the ceiling, attaching the boards to the exposed beams with 4-inch nails.

Cut two pieces of 2-by-4-inch board to fit between the top and bottom of the newly formed frame. Fit the pieces facing outward at the outer corners of the new frame. The frame now forms a three-dimensional box.

Cut drywall to fit the three sides of the frame and the surrounding areas. Use drywall screws to attach to the studs. Use drywall mud to cover these screws and allow them to dry.

Paint or wallpaper the new drywall to match the surrounding area.

Finish the corners and around the ceiling by covering the rough edges with trim. Attach the trim according to the manufacturer's recommendation.