Blank Plates

The Practical Role of Blank Plates in Your Installation

Using a blank plate serves several important purposes, for both safety and aesthetics.

• Safety: Eliminate Risks. An open back box or hole in the wall can be dangerous, especially with children or pets around. A blank plate safely seals this opening and prevents contact with wiring or sharp edges.
• Neat Finish: A Tidy Appearance. Blank plates provide a sleek and uniform look in your home. They seamlessly cover empty holes, making your walls look complete and tidy, matching your other wiring accessories.
• Protection: Keep Dirt Out. By sealing openings, a blank plate prevents dust, dirt, or pests from entering the back box. This is better for the lifespan of your electrical installation.

Different Types of Blank Plates

Blank plates are available in various sizes, materials, and design series, ensuring they always match your needs and the style of your wiring accessories.

Blank Plates by Size and Installation Situation

The most common blank plates fit into standard cover frames, just like switches or sockets. They are available for:

• Single cover frames: For covering a single empty back box.
• Multiple cover frames: For covering multiple back boxes that are side by side and no longer in use. Often combined with switches or sockets in the same frame.

Materials, Colours, and Design Series

The choice of material and colour is important to match the blank plate with your wiring accessories. Manufacturers offer blank plates that are part of specific design series. This allows you to ensure a consistent style with your switches, sockets, and dimmers.

• Plastic: The most common material, available in white, cream, and various shades of grey. These are durable and affordable.
• Metal: Often made of brushed stainless steel, aluminium, or bronze. These versions provide a luxurious and modern look.
• Glass or Natural Stone: For an exclusive finish, matching design lines with similar materials.

Installing a Blank Plate Correctly

Installing a blank plate is usually simple and requires few tools. Follow these steps for a safe installation:

1. Safety First: Always switch off the power supply to the correct circuit in the consumer unit before you start. Use a voltage tester to verify that the power is truly off.
2. Place the Cover Frame (if necessary): First, attach the cover frame to the back box according to the manufacturer's instructions. Blank plates are always placed in a cover frame.
3. Click or Screw the Blank Plate into Place: Most blank plates simply click into the cover frame. Some models, especially those made of heavier materials, may require a small screw to secure the plate.
4. Check the Fit: Ensure the blank plate is seated firmly and straight in the cover frame and sits flush against the wall.
5. Turn the Power On: Switch the power supply back on at the consumer unit.

[Watch the installation video on mounting wiring accessories and cover frames on our blog] for further visual instructions.

Important Aspects When Selecting a Blank Plate

When choosing the right blank plate, it's important to consider a few practical points.

• Compatibility with the Cover Frame: Blank plates are specifically designed for a particular series or brand of cover frames. Check if the blank plate is compatible with the cover frame you are using or plan to use. This prevents issues and guarantees a perfect fit.
• IP Rating (if necessary): For blank plates in damp areas (like bathrooms) or outdoors, the IP rating is relevant. An IP rating of IP44 or higher protects against splashing water and is suitable for these environments. For most indoor applications, a high IP rating is not necessary.
• Colour and Finish: Match the colour and finish of the blank plate with your other switches and sockets in the room for a cohesive look.

By carefully choosing the right blank plate, you ensure a safe, sleek, and professional finish for your electrical installation. Browse our extensive range of blank plates and matching cover frames to find the perfect solution for your project.