Create A Simple Cover For Your Electrical Box Using A Budget-Friendly DIY

An electrical box is the main hub where your home's electricity is controlled and regulated. Having an updated and well-maintained electrical panel is nonnegotiable, but these boxes can still create an eyesore when they're in a central location in your home. One budget-friendly DIY way to hide an electrical box is to create a custom cover with an old frame. You only need a few materials to get started, though some advanced DIYers can opt to build a cabinet around the box for an even bolder design. This approach is a great renter-friendly home upgrade that can enhance your space without lasting damage or preventing access to the box.

While most DIY electrical box covers are simple to execute, safety should be the number one focus during these projects. You should be able to access the electrical panel at all times, and no DIY materials, like peel-and-stick wallpaper, should ever go inside the box. It's important that the electrical box is easy to open during an emergency and that there are at least three feet of clearance around the box per NEC standards.

Once you're ready to hide the eyesore of an electrical box, you'll need to gather a few key materials to execute this DIY. You'll need an old frame that's slightly larger than the box, cabinet door hinges, screws, and some extra lumber if you want to build a frame around the box. For a general installation, start by attaching at least four hinges down the vertical panel of your frame that matches the swing of your electrical box. Screw the hinges into the wall (or newly built frame) and add more hinges if you're using a heavier frame that needs additional support. Now, you're free to add your favorite artwork to the frame to tie the room together without the eyesore of a metal electrical box door.

If you don't want to DIY a custom cover, there are other ways you can hide an electrical box to make your basement more cozy without compromising on safety. One option is to hang a rod in front of the box and use curtains to keep the box from sight. This hack is simple to install, and you can change up the curtain panels between seasons! If you want to cover the panel for a short period of time, like for hosting a dinner party, consider using a floor mirror or room divider to keep the box hidden. These DIYs are removable and excellent for renters or those looking for a temporary solution.