[mbrucesmith]

I am trying to replace a single pole electrical light switch with a single pole motion sensing light switch. The problem I'm running into is after replacement of the wiring and placing the new motion sensor in the electrical box, the sensor is too far recessed into the electrical box. As a result, I cannot attach the cover plate because it cannot attach to the sensor because the sheet rock is blocking the cover plate from being able to be close enough to the sensor to screw and attach. Basically, is there a way to move the electrical box forward or is the an accessory that will allow the sensor to be secured tightly to the box but remain more protruded from being flush when screwed to the electrical box.

[ma0641]

You don't need to move the box, HD, Lowe's and others sell a plastic or metal box extender that may solve your problem. The extender screws into the old box and moves the mounting to be flush with the wall. Very helpful when adding paneling,bead board or for situations like yours. They are quite inexpensive.

[mbrucesmith]

Thank you very much ma0641. I will go to Lowe's or Home Depot and get a couple of "extender screws". This will save a lot of time, aggravation, and money!

[ma0641]

You want a "box extender" It comes with longer screws.

[mbrucesmith]

I went to Home Depot and they gave me a product that are essentially "small plastic shims" that the screw goes through when using them. The process involves placing the screw through the correct hole in the motion sensor and then placing the number of "plastic shims" needed to keep the sensor from setting too far into the wall when screwed tight against the electrical box. Each shim was 1/8 of an inch thick. I used three shims on each screw and tightened the screws to an appropriate tightness and the sensor was now protruding enough from the electrical box that when I screwed the wall plate on , it(motion sensor) was flush with the wall plate. This completed my small remodeling job for the day.

[ma0641]

They gave you the yellow green Caterpillars that work but according to code, the box must be flush with the wall. The blue box extender essentially seals the box and brings it flush. Leave well enough alone. I'm glad it worked and I am pleased that I could help you, Brian. Here is what I was suggesting

http://www.texastoolbox.com/tile-backsplash.html