Backing plates raise a wood switch plate 1/8″ off the wall and stick to the back of the plate with 3M adhesive. If you put one on and the fit isn't what you wanted, or you need to swap it for a different one, it comes back off. This short video shows how to work it off the back of the plate by hand.
Before You Start
- Take the plate off the wall first, so you can work on a flat surface.
- Go slowly. The adhesive lets go gradually, and steady pressure is kinder to the plate than a quick yank.
Do You Need the Backing Plate at All?
The front plate is a flat, slim profile (about 1/8″ thick) and works on its own if your switch or outlet sits flush with the wall. A backing plate only earns its place when the device sits proud and leaves a gap. Backing plates are made from MDF, the same core as the veneered plywood the plates are made from, and come in every configuration from 1 to 6 gang.
Not sure which one you need? Send me a photo of your existing plate through my Etsy shop and I'll point you to the right plate and backing plate.
Putting a new one on? See how to attach a backing plate.
More short how-tos on the VARØ Industries YouTube channel.