Cutting drywall for an electrical box involves carefully tracing and removing the section of drywall that obstructs the box. Here's how to do it:
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Mark the Box Location: After positioning the drywall sheet, locate the electrical box behind the drywall.
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Trace the Outline: Carefully trace the outline of the electrical box onto the drywall. You can do this by feeling for the edges of the box and marking them with a pencil, or using a specialized drywall cutout tool.
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Cut Along the Lines: Use a drywall saw (also known as a jab saw) to cut along the traced lines. Insert the saw into the drywall just inside the line, and then carefully follow the line to remove the drywall section. An alternative to a jab saw is a rotary tool with a drywall cutting bit.
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Check the Fit: After removing the drywall piece, check that the electrical box is properly exposed. Make any necessary adjustments by carefully trimming excess drywall.
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Smooth the Edges (Optional): Use a utility knife or sandpaper to smooth any rough edges around the cutout for a cleaner look.