Light switches and plug sockets

[MrsCampbellBlack]

So upstairs is going to be re-wired in the next couple of weeks and just wondered if its still the norm to have just standard white sockets and light switches?

I don't want stainless steel or anything like that - so is just plain white the norm?

We're getting white but going for the extra slim kind - I don't know what they cost - but they are more subtle - stainless steel is a bit too bling for all the socket/light faces, we intend to use them only for the most prominant of sockets - eg kitchen splashback.

White is the colour to go for, stainless is late 1990s bling and very easily marked. The extra slim socket outlets sell for around 3.50 from electrical outlets such as CEF (CITY ELECTRICAL FACTORS) Avoid places like homebase /b&q as their electrical switchgear is rubbish unless you buy the quality and very expensive MK brand.

DH is an electrician and I asked him what his preference was - he said go for Crabtree. They are neat, sharp and good quality.

DH normally buys his electrical stuff from Electrifix (the electricians bit of Screwfix).

Oh yes - if you are being rewired get loads of sockets. When DH has free rein (when we are doing are own properies) he puts 4 doubles per bedroom plus a couple on the landing. Dont forget to do the loft as well.

Thanks!

We are having loads of double sockets put in and extra on landing. The electrician we're using is getting them all and they looked nice - well you know I found it quite hard to get very excited about sockets and light switches

Why not just buy what you like? I personally wouldn't use anything other than MK but Crabtree and MEM stuff isn't bad. One thing about MK (which should appeal to those on a parenting forum) is the child-proof shutter system is very good. I cannot even open them by manipulating them with the probes on my test lamps so an inquisitive kid has no chance.

One thing to note about slim switches and sockets is that they often require a deeper back-box. If your spark has already quoted based on shallow boxes or reusing the existing back-boxes, he will not be happy if you tell him this after he has completed the first fix.