light switch electric box

[starguru]

So for some of our light switches, the electrical box is too far into the wall.  When the individual switch fixture is screwed already in, and the plate is put on, the switch is too far back and looks bad.

If I loosen the screws so the switch can come out a bit it looks better, but then when you go to use the switch it moves.

is there something I can buy (washers maybe) that will prevent the looseness when the screws are not fully tightened?  I need about half an inch.

Or, is there a way to get the box for that fixture to come out a bit?  I can manipulate it around but it always sinks back in, and there isnt too much room to work with without damaging the wall.

Thanx

[Spork]

Maybe something like this?  (They make extenders for almost every size/shape box... but some of them can be hard to find at the box stores.)

The "normal" reason for these is a buildup on the wall/ceiling of combustible material.   In other words: a thick panelling applied to the wall may set the box back and expose the wires to a combustible material.

http://www.homedepot.com/p/Unbranded-Electrical-Box-Extender-BE1-2/202708650

[paddedhat]

I have used all kinds of things to solve this problem, but the best is a box of #6 or *8 flat washers. Pull the switch or outlet out of the way and gauge the depth with a handful of washers, then stack them on the screw before you drive it in. This not only prevents the switch or outlet from squashing behind the face of the wall, it stiffens the thing up greatly, and it doesn't stress the cover.

[starguru]

Yeah I was just going to try washers unless someone here told mE they make some sort stub specially designed for this.  Thanx.

[Greg]

They do sell folding stackable plastic tabs for fitting under the switch screws just for this.  Home Depot etc. sell them in the electrical area with the wire nuts etc.  But, box extenders are required if the box leave combustibles exposed.