ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area Verticle screw slots?

Here's another "Do You?"...

Do you install cover plate screws so that the slot is in the vertical position? Or do you just tighten them up snug and not worry about their orientation?

I'm a little anal on this one, really makes a difference in how they look and I can tell if anyone has been in "my" boxes!

In final trim out (and all the rough-in prep that it requires) I'm all about visual perfection. (110-12?)

I wish I'd remember to "spell check" before I post!...misspelled in the topic title again!


[This message has been edited by sparky66wv (edited 05-10-2001).]

I'm with you on this one. I try to make the screw slots vertical, even on horizontally aligned devices. It just looks like better workmanship.

I wish my electric screwdriver had a half-turn stepper button. As it is, I have to release its trigger early in anticipation of when the screw will be tight enough and vertical.

I am anal, too. However, I think they look better horizontal. Adds a little contrast.

Vigil;
good thread, this is the end result 'customer sees-it' effect!

i put them all @ 45 deg. especially on 3, or 4 gangers, this is because a few degrees off is less notable than perfectly straight up or down. ( which i can't seem to do well)

You use an electric screwdriver on coverplates? I thought I was lazy!

Seriously, how do you keep it from either cracking the plate (or dimpling it if it's nylon)? Not to mention scratching the plate or shredding the paint off the screw when the flat tip slips...

I spin my screwdriver by the shank when applying screws with my fingers, I'm not much slower this way than with a screwgun, but a lot more control.

Okay, I'll share my secret.
I hold the driver loosely. When the screw tensions, the driver twists slightly in my hand.
My B&D driver is straight (unless I put it into the angle bend position).

It's not perfect, but I think it saves time and wrist action.

They don't require that much pressure. It hasn't been a problem. I don't recall damaging any.

I would use a manual driver too if I had three hands.
Like you, I usually control the tip with my other hand. It is a natural motion from holding the screw to start.


[This message has been edited by Dspark (edited 05-10-2001).]

Weird! How'd you know I had three hands?!?!?

I too put the screw slots in one direction, usually vertical. I do it for the looks and since most amateurs would never think to do it, I can tell if someone has been messing with my work before the warranty expires.

Tom

Does anyone use the trim screwdrivers? They are the ones with the bent shaft so you can get the screw in most of the way with a circular motion of the hand vs. a twisting motion with the wrist.

And yes my screws line up with the direction the receptacle or switch is going. I ususally put recepts horizontal unless requested otherwise.