Best Outlet Boxes for Brick Wall Installations and Surface Mount Needs
Finding the right outlet box for a brick wall or a surface-mounted setup can be challenging. This guide focuses on bricks-and-mards friendly options that install cleanly on brick, plaster, or above-surface runs, helping you choose the best fit for remodeling, renovations, or new builds. Below you’ll find five top products, summarized at a glance, followed by detailed pros, cons, and ideal-use notes. This helps builders, DIY homeowners, and electrical installers pick the right box for each brick-wall project.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Leviton Surface Mount Backbox, 42777-1WA | Surface-mount projects on brick or concrete walls | Designed for practical surface mounting with raceway breakouts |
| Arlington DHB1BRC-1 | Brick construction with flush look | One-piece assembly reduces outside clutter on brick walls |
| Newhouse Hardware 1-Gang PVC Old Work Box | Remodels and renovations | Versatile plastic box for switches, GFCI, or outlets |
| SmarToggle Single Gang Retrofit | Stud or no-stud walls | Snap-toggles provide secure, flush installation |
| Wall Cable Concealer Box for Behind TV | Recessed TV/outlet concealment | Space-saving, neat wall mounting behind screens |
Leviton Surface Mount Backbox, Single Gang
The Leviton surface mount backbox is designed for environments where a traditional wall box isn’t feasible on brick or other hard surfaces. It offers a 1.89-inch depth and breakouts to align with common surface mount raceway systems. This makes it a solid choice for installations on brick walls where you want a clean, accessible box without major wall modification. Best for DIY projects needing a quick, low-profile surface solution. Caution: not every device will fit a shallow backbox; check your device depth before purchasing.
BECHAGE USB C Charger Block 2-Pack
This 2-pack 40W multiport USB-C charger block is suitable for brick-wall projects where you need to surface mount or create a secondary charging station. It offers four ports (two USB-C, two USB-A) with Power Delivery and Quick Charge 3.0, enabling rapid charging for phones, tablets, and smaller devices. Best for adding modern charging hubs to living rooms, offices, or entertainment centers on brick or drywall. Consider this option if you want fast charging for multiple devices in a compact unit. Limitation: sitting on a surface rather than in a can may require raceway or cover plates for a neat look.
Newhouse Hardware 1-Gang PVC Old Work Box
This PVC old-work electrical box is intended for remodeling projects and is compatible with non-metallic sheathed cables. Its single-gang design accommodates switches, GFCIs, or duplex receptacles. Best for brick- or plaster-wall renovations where a robust, non-metallic box is desired. It’s a versatile choice for home improvement jobs. Limitation: plastic boxes may require additional mounting hardware for heavy outlets or switches in high-traffic areas.
SmarToggle Single Gang Retrofit Wall Box
The SmarToggle retrofit wall box is designed for stud or no-stud installations, which is ideal for brick or plaster walls where you’re upgrading to a smart device or adding a new outlet. It features 1-1/2 inch toggles for a secure fit and four wiring ports for versatile conductor management. Best for remodels and smart-home upgrades in existing brick or dense walls. Caution: ensure you have access to a clear stud line or confirm no obstruction behind the wall before installation.
Wall Cable Concealer Management Box
This recessed box is designed to hide outlets behind televisions or wall-mounted devices. It reduces visible clutter and keeps cabling neatly contained within the wall. Best for media walls and brick-backed spaces where a flush, low-profile appearance is desired. Limitation: this option involves deeper wall cavities and precise cutouts; plan your layout to avoid hidden obstructions behind the wall.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For Brick Wall Outlet Boxes
- Wall type and depth: Brick and plaster walls often require surface-mount or retrofit boxes. Measure brick thickness, surface plane, and any required clearance for devices.
- Installation method: Old-work, retrofit, or surface mount approaches have different mounting needs. Choose based on whether you want a flush appearance or rapid installation without wall modification.
- Box depth and capacity: Ensure the chosen box has enough internal depth for the intended devices and conductor counts. Shallow boxes limit device choices.
- Code compatibility: Verify that the box and mounting method meet local electrical codes for masonry walls and exposed surfaces where applicable.
- Finish and aesthetics: For brick walls, surface-mounted boxes with clean faceplates or recessed concealer solutions can reduce visual impact while maintaining accessibility.
- Future upgrades: If you anticipate upgrading to smart devices or adding more outlets, select a retrofit or multi-port option with room to grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the best type of outlet box for brick walls? — Surface-mount and retrofit boxes are typically best for brick walls, offering solid mounting without extensive wall modification.
- Can I install a standard wall box in a brick wall? — It’s possible with the right masonry box and anchors, but you may prefer a brick-compatible backbox or surface-mount option for simplicity.
- Do these boxes support GFCI or smart devices? — Many 1-gang boxes support switches, GFCIs, or smart devices, but verify device depth and port count before purchasing.
- What should I consider for clutter-free TV areas? — Recessed or concealed cable boxes help hide outlets behind TVs, reducing visible wiring.
- Is old-work suitable for brick walls? — Old-work boxes are useful during remodels on brick walls, but ensure the wall cavity can accommodate the box and wiring safely.
- How do I know the right depth for a device? — Check device depth and coupling with the box’s internal depth, allowing space for wiring and faceplate.