This box is a welded version of the drawn 4" square box you have there. It comes, from the factory, with ears for nailing it to a (wooden) stud, yet still has the exact same pattern of open holes in the back as yours does.
Source: Lowes.com
If this box comes with a UL listing (which it does) to be mounted via the attached mount points with the holes in the back open, then yours meets UL requirements when mounted through the side, even if the holes in the back are open.
Answer from FreeMan on Stack ExchangeeBay
ebay.com › shop › surface-mount-electrical-box
Surface Mount Electrical Box | eBay
Electronic Enclosures Metal Enclosure Project Case DIY Box Junction Case BlueOpens in a new window or tab ... Cantex Electrical Box, 64.0 cu. in, Surface Mount Box Type, 2 Gangs, PVC 5133709Opens in a new window or tab
MikeHolt
forums.mikeholt.com › home › active forums › nec
Metal Box Surface Mounted on Plywood with NM wiring method. | Information by Electrical Professionals for Electrical Professionals
February 28, 2020 - I believe these boxes are designed more for work with metal conduit and to be flush mount... Click to expand... That style of box can be flush or surface mounted, that one is more practical to surface mount, ones with a bracket on the side of box are more practical for flush mount. Staff member · Location · Durango, CO, 10 h 20 min from the winged horses. Occupation · Licensed Electrician ·
Do surface mount electrical boxes have to be screwed into framing members? - DoItYourself.com Community Forums
Electrical - AC & DC - Do surface mount electrical boxes have to be screwed into framing members? - I want to surface mount a 1900 box in my garage to add outlets. There is no stud behind the area on the wall I want to mount the box. Is it permissible to secure the box using drywall anchors? More on doityourself.com
Is it safe to use a metal box for a surface mounted electric range outlet?
Attention! It is always best to get a qualified electrician to perform any electrical work you may need. With that said, you may ask this community various electrical questions. Please be cautious of any information you may receive in this subreddit. This subreddit and its users are not responsible for any electrical work you perform. Users that have a 'Verified Electrician' flair have uploaded their qualified electrical worker credentials to the mods. If you comment on this post please only post accurate information to the best of your knowledge. If advice given is thought to be dangerous, you may be permanently banned. There are no obligations for the mods to give warnings or temporary bans. IF YOU ARE NOT A QUALIFIED ELECTRICIAN, you should exercise extreme caution when commenting. I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns. More on reddit.com
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June 24, 2023Does a metal surface mount electrical box need to ... - Reddit
Do they make 2-gang versions of these surface mount switch boxes?
https://www.grainger.com/mobile/product/RACO-Electrical-Box-2DDD1?breadcrumbCatId=3406 Don't buy it there, Grainger is too expensive. What you need is a 2-gang 4" box. You could also google 2-gang handy box (someone else mentioned this). But, you should know that it is a violation to run romex on top of sheetrock outside of the wall. If you really don't want to run wire inside the wall, you should be running conduit on the surface. More on reddit.com
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July 15, 2020How do I choose the right size surface mount electrical box?
Choosing the right size surface mount electrical box depends on the devices and wiring you plan to install. Consider these points:
- Device Type: Larger boxes are needed for multiple outlets, switches, or complex wiring setups.
- Wire Capacity: Make sure the box can accommodate the number and gauge of wires safely.
- Space for Connections: Allow extra room for wire nuts and connectors to avoid overcrowding.
- Outdoor Use: For outdoor installations, select weatherproof boxes with appropriate IP ratings.
Review product dimensions and specifications to match your installation needs before purchasing.
walmart.com
walmart.com › home improvement › electrical › breakers, distributors, and load centers › electrical boxes › surface mount electrical boxes
Surface Mount Electrical Boxes in Electrical Boxes - Walmart.com
Can surface mount electrical boxes be installed on any wall type?
Surface mount electrical boxes are versatile and can be installed on various wall types including drywall, concrete, brick, and wood. Here are some tips:
- Mounting Hardware: Use appropriate anchors or screws suited for the wall material to ensure a secure fit.
- Surface Preparation: Clean and level the installation area to help the box sit flush against the wall.
- Accessibility: Position the box where wiring can be easily routed and devices accessed.
Proper installation techniques help maintain safety and functionality regardless of wall type.
walmart.com
walmart.com › home improvement › electrical › breakers, distributors, and load centers › electrical boxes › surface mount electrical boxes
Surface Mount Electrical Boxes in Electrical Boxes - Walmart.com
How can I protect outdoor electrical outlets with surface mount boxes?
Protecting outdoor electrical outlets is important for safety and durability. Surface mount weatherproof boxes are a great solution. Consider these tips:
- Choose Weatherproof Boxes: Look for boxes with an IP rating suitable for outdoor exposure to keep moisture out.
- Use Gasketed Covers: Covers with rubber gaskets provide a tight seal against rain and dust.
- Proper Sealing: Seal around cable entry points with silicone or appropriate sealants to prevent water intrusion.
- Regular Inspection: Periodically check the box and cover for damage or wear to maintain protection.
These steps help ensure your outdoor outlets stay safe and functional.
walmart.com
walmart.com › home improvement › electrical › breakers, distributors, and load centers › electrical boxes › surface mount electrical boxes
Surface Mount Electrical Boxes in Electrical Boxes - Walmart.com
Videos
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How To Surface Mount a Junction Box - YouTube
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How to Move a Surface Mounted Electrical Box #DIY - YouTube
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How To Mount An Electrical Box (PERFECTLY Flush With Drywall) - ...
Top answer 1 of 2
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This box is a welded version of the drawn 4" square box you have there. It comes, from the factory, with ears for nailing it to a (wooden) stud, yet still has the exact same pattern of open holes in the back as yours does.
Source: Lowes.com
If this box comes with a UL listing (which it does) to be mounted via the attached mount points with the holes in the back open, then yours meets UL requirements when mounted through the side, even if the holes in the back are open.
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You can just drill mounting holes as needed for a side mount. Do not drill on knockouts or contacting knockout edges. Being able to field-drill mounting holes is one of the many privileges of using a metal box! Can't do it with plastic.
The holes in the back of the box are not a code violation. It is normal for some of them to be unused. I keep a bag of #10-32 bolts and nuts in my electrical kit, I could always fill the holes with those if it bothered me. The smallest hole is already tapped #10-32.
Stayonline
stayonline.com › category › w-nema-surface-mount-boxes.asp
NEMA Surface Mount Boxes
NEMA Surface mount boxes are used for mounting electrical receptacles on the surface of a building.
Walmart
walmart.com › home improvement › electrical › breakers, distributors, and load centers › electrical boxes › surface mount electrical boxes
Surface Mount Electrical Boxes in Electrical Boxes - Walmart.com
Options from $7.29 – $74.99Weatherproof Outlet Box,Three 1/2 Inch Hole Outdoor Electrical Box,Aluminum Construction Outdoor Outlet Box,CUL Listed for Home Improvement,Gray Single Gang Box(1 Pack) ... MLINS Surface Mount Electrical Box For Wall Switches Easy Installation And Maintenance Switch Mount Box For Home And Commercial Applications
DoItYourself.com
doityourself.com › doityourself.com community forums › electrical, ac & dc. electronic equipment and computers › electrical - ac & dc › do surface mount electrical boxes have to be screwed into framing members?
Do surface mount electrical boxes have to be screwed into framing members? - DoItYourself.com Community Forums
July 6, 2021 - The pushing in and pulling out of a plug may tend to jar the box loose. You may want to instead of sheet rock anchors like plastic ones use machine bolts with expanding wings which open up behind the sheetrock. The metal machine bolts and metal expanding wings I believe will hold the box more securely against the wall than plastic mollies and screws.
Internationalconfig
internationalconfig.com › icc6.asp
SURFACE MOUNT METAL BOX AND COVER,
* Option= Insulated surface mount wall box # 680601X45 accepts # 685041X45, 685042X45 outlets, # 74452X45 circuit breaker. 79235X45 SURFACE MOUNT 1 GANG METAL BOX AND COVER. ACCEPTS 45mmX45mm & 22.5mmX45mm SIZE MODULAR DEVICES.
Floorboxsystems
floorboxsystems.com › fbs › surface mount electrical boxes
Surface mount electrical boxes
The FBS surface mount electrical boxes provide a flexible solution to install power outlets and low voltage jacks where required.
Facebook
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Installing electrical boxes in metal lined building?
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Amazon
amazon.com › OSALADI-Electrical-Construction-Installation-Versatile › dp › B0F5YKHBS6
OSALADI Metal Surface Mount Outlet Box Wall Socket Electrical Box for Home and Office Durable Construction Easy Installation Versatile Design for Various Wall Types - Amazon.com
Package List 1 x junction box Characteristics - : features a fireresistant junction box to ensure a safer environment for your electrical connections surface mount outlet -Universal compatibility: the surface mount design is universally compatible, making it suitable for various interior styles metal electrical enclosure -Stainless steel durability: made from stainless steel, this outlet box is built to last and resist corrosion socket cover -Multiuse socket panel: equipped with a versatile socket panel to meet a wide range of electrical requirements, enhancing its practicality universal wall
The Spruce
thespruce.com › plastic-vs-metal-electrical-box-1821522
When to Use a Plastic or Metal Electrical Box
December 15, 2025 - Typically, electrical boxes are recessed in walls. But unfinished basements and mudrooms may not have a complete wall system that allows for the box to be enclosed by drywall. A typical installation involves attaching the exposed box directly to a masonry wall. Because the wires are also exposed, metal conduit is required. Metal boxes' strength comes in handy when mounting ...
Gewiss
gewiss.com › home › installation › wall-mounting enclosures
Surface-mounting enclosures | Gewiss
System of enclosures for wall-mount systems and applications in industrial, commercial and residential environments. The offer consists of watertight boards (in technopolymer, fibreglass-reinforced polyester, metal and stainless steel), junction ...
The Home Depot
homedepot.com › electrical › electrical boxes, conduit & fittings › weatherproof boxes
Weatherproof Boxes - The Home Depot
/Electrical Boxes, Conduit & Fittings · /Weatherproof Boxes · Outdoor · Metallic · Non-Metallic · Commercial Electric · Midwest Electric Products · VEVOR · Shop Savings · 220 Results · Filters · In Stock at Store Today · Free 1-2 Day Delivery · Same-Day Delivery ·
UpCodes
up.codes › s › surface-mounted-box
Surface-Mounted Box | UpCodes
NFPA 70, 2023 > 2 Wiring and Protection ... metal box is installed on a surface, it can achieve an effective ground-fault current path through direct metal contact between the device and the box....
Hammond Mfg.
hammfg.com
Electrical & Electronic Enclosures, Cabinets & Racks, Outlet Strips and Electronic Transformers - Hammond Mfg.
Hammond Manufacturing is a leading manufacturer of industrial enclosures, electronic enclosures, racks & rack cabinets, transformers, outlet strips and climate control products.
Leviton
leviton.com › home › products › network solutions › copper systems › wallplates & housings › surface mount back boxes
Surface Mount Back Boxes | Leviton Network Solutions
Two-piece Surface Mount Back Boxes snap snugly together to adapt Leviton flush mount products for surface mounting on walls, dividers, cabinets, desks or modular furniture
Polycase
polycase.com › flanged-surface-mount-enclosures
Surface Mount Electrical Boxes & Wall Mount Enclosures
Remember — we offer an enormous array of indoor and outdoor electrical enclosures, hinged electrical enclosures and models with options such as built-in knockouts and clear covers. ... Made in the USA, the HD Series offers premium protection against all weather conditions, and unwanted tampering. With hidden cover screws, and convenient surface-mounting flanges, this series is a go-to for outdoor electronics.
Legrand
legrand.us › wiring-devices › electrical-boxes › wall-boxes › c › lgnd030304
Wall Boxes | Electrical Boxes | Wiring Devices
Single gang, deep old work switch and outlet box with Quick Click and Swing-Bracket for mounting, adjusts from 1 1/4' down to 1/8'. It has two Auto/Clamps for each end. It has a durable, impact-resistant thermoplastic box. The metal swing bracket is for quick mounting in existing walls.
The Home Depot
homedepot.com › electrical › electrical boxes, conduit & fittings
Electrical Boxes, Conduit & Fittings - The Home Depot
Shop Electrical Boxes, Conduit & Fittings and more at The Home Depot. We offer free delivery, in-store and curbside pick-up for most items.