Funny Nature & Travel Art & Stage Going Viral Science Greetings Inspirational

Edit Profile Recently Viewed Favorites

Main > Tips & DIY > Tips, Life Hacks and DIY

How to Paint Plastic Outlet Covers So They Don't Chip

Edited By: Tamar Z.

Font Size:

A+ A-

So you painted your bedroom a fresh coat color, and now, your stark white outlet covers seem to stand out with contrast. Maybe you even tried painting over them, but the paint chips away easily and doesn’t have a smooth finish. In this article, we'll cover how to paint outlet covers, plastic and metal ceiling registers, and how to wallpaper an outlet cover as well.

Painting plastic switch plates

Painting plastic outlet covers - unscrewing the covers

When painting plastic hardware, two things must be considered: the difference in color and the difference in material between the wall and the covers. The color of your plastic outlet is not identical to that of the wall (even if they are both white). The two must be matched. The difference in material affects the method of painting.

For plastic covers, you'll need:
* An abrasive sponge or sanding paper of 220 grit.
* Oil-based primer.
* The same paint you used for the wall.
* A small foam roller.

1. Unscrew and clean the outlet covers. Use a simple solution of warm water and dish soap. Let it dry completely.
2. If there are any paint stains or a full layer of paint, use rubbing alcohol to remove it. Avoid paint thinner, as it might melt the plastic.
3. Scuff and smooth down the surface with the sponge or sandpaper.
4. Apply a spray on oil-based primer in a single, even, and thin layer. Do this outdoors from a distance of at least 10 inches. Let it dry completely and sand again to smooth out the surface.
5. Work with well-mixed paint and apply the paint with a small foam roller. Start with a light coat and let it dry completely. Once dry, place it up against the wall to see if the colors match. If another layer of paint is needed, scuff the cover again before you apply it. Repeat this process until the colors match.
6. Paint the heads of the nails too. Before installing, finish the paint job with a clear protective finish – it doesn’t have to be shiny if you’re not after that look.
7. Carefully reinstall the socket cover. For the next two weeks or so, be extra careful around your newly installed painted switch covers. It may seem dry, but paint does take a while to dry completely.

Painting plastic outlet covers - spray painting

Decorative painting
If you'd like to take a finer brush and paint a decorative pattern, the preparation process should be just about the same.

1. After removing the cover from the wall, cleaning it, and scuffing it, apply the primer.
2. Let the primer dry and scuff with the sponge or sandpaper.
2. Paint on a smooth base layer - this can be any color you like, but you must do it to cover the primer completely.
3. Using a fine brush, draw your design and let it dry.
4. Do not scuff- simply cover with the clear finish layer and reinstall the cover once dry.

Painting metal covers

For metal ceiling registers and other covers, you can skip the sanding and scuffing. Simply wash them with warm water and dish soap, let dry, apply the primer, and follow up with the paint.

If there is rust, a five-hour vinegar bath should treat it. Rust-neutralizing products will also work. Let them sit for 24 hours and paint the next day.

Applying wallpaper to outlet covers

This process requires some finessing and patience, but it pays off. Follow the instructions on the video below, and your socket should be perfectly hidden!

having trouble playing this movie? click here

Source: 1, 2, 3.

Like Next Post Send Share WhatsApp

Copy Link

Did you mean:

Continue With: Facebook Google

By continuing, you agree to our T&C and Privacy Policy

Report copyright infringement

Print this content

You may also like:

Tips, Life Hacks and DIY

11 Mistakes Any DIY-er Should Avoid

Before you begin your long awaited project, take a look at these common DIY mistakes and make sure you’re not making any of them along the way.

Recipes & Drinks

Here's How to Make Caramel From Scratch At Home

We all love caramel, but did you know that it's pretty easy to make at home? Here's how to do it!

Tips, Life Hacks and DIY

3 Tried and Tested Problem-Solving Methods

GUIDE: Learn 3 Proven Problem-Solving Methods

Your ability to solve problems, or lack thereof, has a great bearing on whether you can be happy and successful. Try these 3 problem-solving methods.

Tips, Life Hacks and DIY

Did You Know That Your Washing Machine Needs Cleaning Too?

Most people never even think about it, but did you know that washing machines need washing too? Here's a quick guide to washing your washing machine.

Tips, Life Hacks and DIY

20 Unusual But Super Neat Stain Removal Hacks

9:16

You Definitely Should Try These Amazing Cleaning Hacks

If blotches and stains are putting an dampener on how the interior of your home looks, be sure to learn these 20 unusual but super neat hacks.

Tips, Life Hacks and DIY

Surprise Your Kids With This Fake Snow Recipe!

Learn how to make your very own snow from the comfort of your own home thanks to this brilliant guide.

Baba Recommends

Simone de Beauvoir on Aging, Freedom, and Authentic Living

Here is Simone de Beauvoir's story, the principles behind her thinking, and how they can enrich the way we live today.

Design & Photography

9:11

50 Real Photos of Old-School, Small-Town USA

These fifty photographs capture that vanishing America; not just the architecture of a bygone time, but the warmth, connection, and spirit of the places we once called home.

Send Comment

Related Topics: tips, wallpaper, how to, guide, home, DIY, plastic, home improvement, paint job, decorative, small projects, fix it

Quizzes

General Knowledge Quiz

We've skipped the tired old questions you've seen a hundred times and gathered 15 of the most surprising, delightful, and downright odd facts from the corners of science, language, history, and the animal kingdom.

What Do You Know About Famous Musicals?

Whether you can waltz through every classic or simply hum along to the famous tunes, this quiz is for you.

Can You See in Blues and Oranges?

Some people will see it instantly, while others will need to look twice. Whether you have eagle eyes or a color blind spot, there's only one way to find out. Ready to see what your eyes are made of?

Most popular in Tips, Life Hacks and DIY

Making a Poached Egg - The Easiest Method Yet

1:35

So THIS Is How You Make the Perfect Poached Egg

Don't be put off making poached eggs thinking it's difficult. This video shows how easy it is!

These Are the Best Exercises for Easing Eye Strain

7:53

Relieve Tired Eyes With These Simple Exercises

Ease the strain on your eyes with these simple and effective exercises.

14 Psychological Tricks You Have to Try Today!

How about getting people to agree with you? Kid won't eat their greens? These 14 psychological tricks will get people to do what you want.

These 12 Simple Actions Will Keep Your Mind Sharp

The brain, the most important organ in our bodies responsible for countless actions, sometimes needs a little help, here are 12 unique ways to help it.