Does it matter which way you orientate the round mud rings on 4″ metal boxes for wall lights? Vertical or horizontal? Also, is there a better way to attach fixtures than using that thin stamped strap with the center stud? And don’t tell me to change them to octogon boxes- the whole house is done this way and drywall’s going up soon. The only exception are cieling fan boxes. There I used the heavy duty boxes made specifically for fans.
Thanks!
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Replies
If the mud rings are round, how do you tell up from down?
"Put your creed in your deed." Emerson
"When asked if you can do something, tell'em "Why certainly I can", then get busy and find a way to do it." T. Roosevelt
Actually it doesn't matter, you can make both work. If I had a choice and knew what the fixtures going in were I would align them with the holes in the fixture so you don't need to use a cross bar. I have seen wall sconces with holes vertical, horizontal, or with a center pipe conection, so if you don't know just pick whatever is easy.
Look at your light fixtures!
For the most part, light fixtures are intended for mounting to mud rings with ROUND openings ... they need the larger #8 screws that round ones have .... and they are designed for the mounting holes to be horizontal.
Thermostats, on the other hand, are usually sized to mount on rectangular openings, mounted horizontally.
The good news is that most lights will cover a poor patch job, if you have to open the wall and rotate the ring later.