How to Measure Drywall for Cutting an Outlet Hole
Drywall is a common material of choice when it comes to wall construction. The gypsum-based material is easy to cut and offers a modicum of fire protection due to its fire-retardant properties. When installing drywall, it is important to take into account the location of any wall outlets situated in the project area. You will have to make precise cuts and measurements on the drywall to ensure the outlet lines up properly with the hole you cut. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Measure the distance between the bottom of the wall socket and the nearest bottom edge -- either the floor or the edge of an already-installed piece of drywall -- and write this measurement on a piece of paper.
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2
Use the measuring tape to measure the distance between the side edge of the outlet box and the nearest wall edge. Note this distance on a piece of paper.
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3
Measure the width and height of the outlet box.
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4
Mark the two distances related to the position of the outlet on the piece of drywall that is to be mounted over the wall outlet. Make a mark on the drywall where both the side edge and the bottom edge of the outlet begin.
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5
Use the measurements of the outlet box to make a cutting template that is as wide and as high as the outlet and that lines up with the side and bottom markings you marked previously. Use a T-square to ensure you get perfectly straight lines.
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