Back Boxes

Shop back boxes at RS Electrical Supplies. Also known as pattress boxes or socket boxes, back boxes are the recessed or surface-mounted enclosures that house switches, sockets, and other wiring accessories behind the faceplate. We stock back boxes in both standard galvanised steel and black finish — with black back boxes specifically designed to pair with matt black, black nickel, and other dark finish faceplates, preventing any silver metal from showing around the edges of the plate.

Black Back Boxes

Black back boxes are an essential finishing detail for any dark finish wiring accessories installation. When fitting matt black, black nickel, or anthracite faceplates, a standard galvanised steel back box can show a silver edge around the perimeter of the plate — particularly with screwless flat plate designs where the faceplate sits flush to the wall. A black-painted or black-coated back box eliminates this issue, ensuring a clean, consistent finish throughout. Available in 25mm and 35mm depths to suit all standard switch and socket installations.

Back Box Types Available

• Metal flush back boxes (galvanised steel) — recessed into the wall for a flush finish; the standard choice for plastered walls
• Metal flush back boxes (black finish) — as above, with a black coating for use with dark finish faceplates
• Plastic surface-mounted back boxes — fixed to the surface of the wall; suitable for exposed installations, garages, and outbuildings
• Dry lining back boxes — designed for installation into plasterboard (stud walls) without a solid backing
• Extension rings — fitted over an existing back box to increase the depth for deeper faceplates

Back Box Depths

• 16mm — shallow depth, suitable for standard switches
• 25mm — the most common depth for standard switches and sockets
• 35mm — required for USB sockets, dimmers, and many decorative flat plate ranges
• 47mm — extra deep for complex wiring configurations

Always check the minimum back box depth specified by the faceplate manufacturer before installation. Order today with fast UK delivery from RS Electrical Supplies.