Wall plate anchors, also known as switch plate anchors or switch plate screws, are typically used to secure electrical outlets and light switches to the wall. These small metal or plastic anchors can sometimes detract from the overall look of a room, especially if they are noticeable or clash with the room’s aesthetic. If you’re considering covering wall plate anchors with wallpaper, it’s important to understand the process involved and potential challenges you may face. In this article, we’ll discuss whether it’s possible to cover wall plate anchors with wallpaper and provide some tips to help you achieve a seamless look.
Understanding Wall Plate Anchors
Before we delve into the idea of covering wall plate anchors with wallpaper, it’s important to understand how these anchors function. Wall plate anchors are usually installed during the construction or remodeling phase to provide a secure attachment for switch plates. They typically consist of a small metal bracket or a plastic piece with wings that fold out behind the wall. These wings anchor the switch plate and prevent it from falling off the wall. Wall plate anchors are designed to be durable and provide stability, ensuring the switch plates remain securely in place over time.
Challenges of Covering Wall Plate Anchors
While covering wall plate anchors with wallpaper may seem like a simple solution to hide them, there are some challenges to consider. The primary challenge is maintaining accessibility to the switch plate anchors. Switch plates need to be easily removable whenever you need to access the electrical wiring or replace an outlet or switch. Covering the anchors with wallpaper can make it difficult and time-consuming to remove the switch plates when needed, potentially causing damage to the wallpaper or requiring you to redo the installation. Additionally, the added thickness of the wallpaper might prevent the switch plates from fitting back onto the wall properly.
Steps to Cover Wall Plate Anchors with Wallpaper
If you still want to attempt covering wall plate anchors with wallpaper, here are some steps you can follow:
- Prepare the surface: Make sure the wall surface is clean and free of any dust, debris, or loose wallpaper. Remove the switch plate cover and set it aside.
- Apply wallpaper: Cut a section of wallpaper that includes the area surrounding the wall plate anchors. Apply the wallpaper following the manufacturer’s instructions, making sure to smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles.
- Mark the anchors: Once the wallpaper is applied, use a utility knife or a small tool to locate the position of the wall plate anchors.
- Cut the wallpaper: Carefully cut out small openings in the wallpaper to expose the wall plate anchors. Take your time to ensure the cuts are neat and precise.
- Reinstall the switch plate cover: Now that the wall plate anchors are exposed, reinstall the switch plate cover, making sure it fits properly over the anchors and aligns with the electrical outlet or switch.
Considerations and Alternatives
While covering wall plate anchors with wallpaper is possible, it may not be the most practical solution. Considering the challenges mentioned earlier, here are a few alternatives to achieve a more seamless look:
- Paint the switch plates: One option is to paint the switch plate covers with the same color as the wall, making them blend in seamlessly.
- Upgrade to decorative switch plates: Instead of covering the anchors, you can replace the standard switch plates with decorative ones that enhance the room’s aesthetic.
- Use wallpaper specifically designed for switch plates: Some manufacturers offer wallpapers that are specifically designed for switch plates. These wallpapers come with pre-cut holes, allowing you to cover the anchors while still maintaining accessibility.
It is possible to cover wall plate anchors with wallpaper, but it comes with certain considerations and challenges. If you choose to go this route, make sure to follow the steps carefully and be prepared for potential difficulties when accessing the anchors in the future. Alternatively, you can explore other options such as painting the switch plates or upgrading to decorative switch plates to achieve a more visually appealing solution. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preferences and priorities in terms of aesthetics and functionality.