Extending junction box

[garrett1812]

I have a few places in the house with a single gang metal junction box that I would like to extend, so it can go from one light switch to two. They could be two separate boxes as well, either is okay for what I am trying to do. But I would like them to be under a single double-wide cover plate. Is there any way to extend the box, or add another box next to, or am I better off cutting out the old box and replacing with a two gang box?

Thanks!

 

[Dave Nelson]

I always remove the single gang box and install a 2 gang old work box, plastic or metal.

 

[prostreetamx]

I normally cut the new hole for the wider 2 or 3 gang box first. You can then pry off the original nail on box or just cut off the nails with a hack saw blade. You can use an old work cut in box with the foldable ears to replace the box but I use Decora devices which don't really like that type of box if you want the device to fit flush with the wall surface. Since you are already next to a stud you can just cut off all the outside tabs from a normal nail on 2 gang and screw it to the stud from inside the box. After you are done no on will even notice the change. I just did this a few weeks ago and have done so many times.

 

[ForceFed70]

Have you considered a double light switch in a single gang box?

 

[garrett1812]

Thought about it, but prefer separate switches. Also needs to be there-way. Not sure if they make those. I'll go ahead and pull the old box and replace with a double. Didn't know if there first was an add-on type method.

Next question:
I need to run new wires from the current junction boxes into basement. Plan is to get one of those 5' long drill bits and drill from the junction box down into floor. One of the walls I will be doing is an exterior wall, with fiberglass insulation. Any tips for not disturbing the insulation?

 

[rburke65]

Drill up! Not down...... Ya won't drill through all that insulation ....just drill through the sub floor, and into the stud cavity. Then use a snake, pushing it up into the cavity, to the box. I fished walls for 11 years rewiring houses. Real easy if your removing the existing "outlet/switch box.

 

[garrett1812]

How do I know where to drill? Specifically, where do I know I am in the stud cavity and not the open floor? I think I can guess the position along the wall based on a heat vent.