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Can a junction box be made of plastic or metal? No matter how large or little, a junction or electrical box is a necessary component of every building. Your electrical box is necessary for the electrical system in your house. A variety of wiring connections for various electrical devices and applications will be housed in each enclosure.
Fixtures, outlets, transition wires, and switches are a few examples. Wires and cables are safeguarded against damage by junction boxes. Additionally, they will be shielded from short circuits and other problems that may start electrical fires or impair functionality or performance.
It can be difficult to decide between a plastic and a metal electrical box, but it doesn’t have to be. The decision is often mostly based on personal preference. Convenience or cost may be the deciding factors for certain people.
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Contents
Metal Electrical Boxes
Metal junction boxes are renowned for their exceptional toughness. Even the harshest environmental conditions won’t be able to stop a metal junction box. Extreme cold or heat, crushing, and open flames are a few examples.
Additionally, metal-insulated wires will naturally ground themselves at a metal electrical box. We’ll also talk about a tonne of additional electrically grounded parts. In fact, using metal electrical boxes may be required by municipal building codes in some areas.
Metal boxes are stronger than their plastic equivalents, as was already established. They also outperform plastic boxes in terms of performance and have a longer lifespan.
Wear safety gloves before working with metal boxes if you have the necessary training.
Plastic Electrical Boxes
The advantage of plastic boxes is that they are very user-friendly. They are manageable and light in weight. Many laypeople prefer them over their metal counterparts since they are also quite inexpensive. On the sides and the rear, you can rather easily punch holes if you want to.
Take note that when exposed to high heat, plastic boxes may melt. They won’t, though, conduct electricity. Also to be observed is the fact that wire clamps are typically built into plastic electrical boxes. As a result, your project will be less expensive.
We strongly advise that the box you select is not outdoor-rated if you need to execute an exterior installation.
The Benefits of Using Plastic Electrical Boxes
For household installations, plastic electrical boxes are a superior option. They are convenient, affordable, and lightweight. For instance, while working with plastic electrical boxes, grounding is not a concern. They won’t conduct any electricity if they come into contact with a live wire, so you won’t have to worry about that either.
It’s normally preferable to leave grounding configuration to experts because it can take a long time. For these reasons, the majority of electrical contractors will, if possible, choose plastic electrical boxes over metal electrical boxes.
Another advantage is that pre-integrated clamps or mounting nails are provided with plastic electrical boxes. But during a replacement or installation, the nail brackets could break off because they are fairly brittle.
When is it best to use metal boxes?
Plastic boxes are much less dependable than metal ones. You won’t have to worry about them bending or breaking, and they are also fireproof. Additionally, you don’t have to be concerned about them getting broken or deformed.
Even when exposed to extreme heat, they won’t melt. They are hence the first option for the majority of electrical wiring applications. An electrical box made of metal is actually required when a cable with a metal sheath or a metal conduit is run into and out of the box.
Metal is also a better option if you have any exposed interior applications, like conduits in mudrooms with insufficient drywall systems. For unfinished or partial basements, you ought to use a metal electrical box as well.
For most people, choosing between plastic and metal electrical boxes really comes down to personal taste. Some may simply have a tight budget and may have no choice but to go with a plastic electrical box.
A plastic electrical box may be more convenient as well since no grounding is required. If grounding is required, though, then going with a metal electrical box is usually the preferred choice. If you have an existing metal electrical box, then have an electrician examine it. They will let you know if you should replace it with a plastic electrical box.
Interestingly, metal boxes were actually considered the gold standard for several decades. However, the advent of easy-to-use and inexpensive plastic boxes made some homeowners replace their old metal boxes with new plastic ones. If you have any doubts, then simply call a local electrician so that they can help you make an informed decision.
Closing Thoughts
The majority of the time, whether you choose plastic or metal electrical boxes actually boils down to personal preference. Some people can just be on a short budget and be forced to use a plastic electrical box.
Since there is no need for grounding, a plastic electrical box can also be more practical. But if grounding is necessary, using a metal electrical box is typically the best option. Have an electrician look at any existing metal electrical boxes you may have. If a plastic electrical box should be used in its stead, they will inform you of this.
It’s interesting to note that for many years, metal boxes were regarded as the gold standard. However, the introduction of practical and affordable plastic boxes forced some homeowners to replace their outdated metal containers.
