How to Fix a Recessed or Sunken Plug Socket or Light Switch
If your plug sockets or light switches sit too far back in the wall after tiling or plastering, you’re not alone. It’s a common problem in homes across the UK - and the good news is that there’s a simple, safe way to fix it without calling an electrician.
A socket spacer plate is an easy DIY solution that lets you bring a recessed or sunken socket forward so it sits neatly flush with your wall again. Here’s how it works and how to choose the right one for your home.
Why sockets become recessed or sunken
There are a few common reasons your sockets or switches no longer sit flush:
- New tiles or wall panels: Adding wall coverings can make sockets appear recessed, as the extra layer pushes the faceplate deeper into the wall.
- Fresh plaster or skimming: When walls are replastered or skimmed, the added thickness hides part of the socket box.
- Uneven surfaces or wall repairs: Even small variations in wall finish can cause sockets to sit slightly sunken on one side.
Whatever the cause, the result is the same - a recessed or sunken socket that looks untidy and can put strain on the faceplate or wiring.
The quick fix - socket spacer plates
A socket spacer (sometimes called an extension plate) fits neatly between your wall and the socket faceplate. It moves the faceplate forward by a few millimetres, fixing recessed or sunken sockets without replacing the back box or rewiring.
Because the spacer is a non-electrical component, it’s safe and simple to install for most DIYers. All you need to do is unscrew the faceplate, place the spacer in position, and reattach the screws. The socket or switch is then perfectly flush again.
You can find UK-made socket spacers in a range of thicknesses here.
Step-by-step: how to fix a recessed or sunken socket
- Turn off the power to the socket or lighting circuit at the mains.
- Loosen and remove the faceplate screws. Pull the faceplate gently away from the wall.
- Insert the socket spacer between the faceplate and the wall surface. In some cases, this can be done without disconnecting any wires, but if the cables are tight, you may need to remove them carefully and reconnect afterwards.
- Refit the screws through the faceplate and spacer into the back box. The screws pass through all layers - the faceplate, the spacer, and into the electrical back box - holding everything securely in place and effectively extending the depth of the socket.
- Tighten securely and check that the faceplate now sits flush and level.
If in doubt about electrical safety, always consult a qualified electrician before carrying out work on your fittings.
Choosing the right spacer thickness
Socket spacers come in a few standard thicknesses to suit different wall finishes.
Here’s a quick guide:
| Wall Type / Situation | Recommended Thickness |
|---|---|
| Fresh plaster or paint | 2mm - 5mm |
| Tiled or panelled wall | 6mm - 10mm |
| Deep tiling or large gap | 10mm - 20mm |
Our Socket Spacers are available in 2 mm to 20 mm thicknesses for both single and double-gang sockets. Most recessed sockets only need a thin spacer to make the faceplate perfectly flush again.
Minimalist, precise, and discreet
Our spacers are designed to be minimalist and accurate, ensuring a precise fit against the wall and faceplate. When installed correctly, the spacer becomes almost invisible - if your faceplate sits flush with the wall, you shouldn’t see the spacer at all.
They’re 3D printed from tough, heat-resistant plastic, making them strong, durable, and suitable for long-term use behind electrical fittings. Available in black, white, or grey, they blend seamlessly with modern or traditional faceplates.
Preventing stress on the faceplate
By bringing the socket forward, a spacer prevents the faceplate from bending or being forced into position due to the depth of the back box. This helps avoid stress on the screws and wiring, ensuring a neat, long-lasting fit that looks professional.
Cost and time savings
Socket spacers allow you to reuse your existing back boxes during renovation or redecorating work. Instead of the messy, time-consuming job of replacing back boxes or rewiring circuits, you can simply fit a spacer plate and get the same perfect result in minutes.
It’s a simple, low-cost way to get your sockets sitting flush without the hassle of major electrical work.
Fully customisable for any installation
Every installation is slightly different, which is why our socket spacers are fully customisable. You can specify:
- Width and height - to match non-standard sockets or decorative panels
- Depth (thickness) - to achieve the exact fit you need
- Fixing lugs (screw guide holes) - for perfect alignment with your back box
- Corner radius - to choose how rounded or square the corners are for a professional finish
These options ensure that your spacer fits perfectly and looks as discreet as possible once installed. Whether you’re matching a unique wall layout or achieving a flawless, flush fit, we can make a spacer that’s made precisely for your setup.
Common questions
Can I paint the spacers?
Yes - the plastic can be lightly sanded and painted with most household paints to match your wall or faceplate.
Do I need longer screws?
Sometimes, depending on the thickness. Longer M3.5 screws are inexpensive and widely available.
Are they safe for electrical fittings?
Yes - the spacers are non-conductive and designed specifically for use behind sockets and switches.
Do they fit both single and double sockets?
Yes - all spacers are available in both single and double-gang versions.
Why socket spacers are the smart choice
- Quick and easy to install with just a screwdriver
- No rewiring or new back box needed
- Prevents stress or bending of the faceplate
- Allows reuse of existing back boxes
- Ideal for fixing recessed or sunken sockets after tiling or plastering
- Minimalist design for a near-invisible finish
- Customisable width, height, depth, fixing lugs, and corner radius
- 3D printed in the UK from tough, heat-resistant plastic
If you’ve been living with uneven or sunken sockets, a spacer plate is the simplest way to restore a clean, professional finish.
Final thoughts
Whether you’re fixing a recessed light switch, tidying up after tiling, or finishing a redecorated room, socket spacers are a quick, affordable, and lasting solution.
Explore our full range of Socket Spacers, or go straight to the Socket Spacer product page to choose your size and colour.