Exterior GFCI box choice

[captain14]

I am looking to install another exterior box by the back door.

Which are better the plastic or metal Box? There seems to be more
Plastic box options out there now.

I am mainly Concerned about the occasional bump to it since it's along the side walk.

It will have a GFCI plug and the associated cover plate. All the in use clear cover
Plates are plastic. Do they Hold up long term?

 

[Norcal]

I am looking to install another exterior box by the back door.

Which are better the plastic or metal Box? There seems to be more
Plastic box options out there now.

I am mainly Concerned about the occasional bump to it since it's along the side walk.

It will have a GFCI plug and the associated cover plate. All the in use clear cover
Plates are plastic. Do they Hold up long term?

The plastic in use covers do not taKe much abuse, I prefer the metal ones, there are more options with metallic bell boxes VS non metallic.

 

[prostreetamx]

The box itself should be a metal Bell box if exposed to damage and sunlight. In Las Vegas plastic does not last very long in the hot sun. Not sure if they make metal in-use covers but I use plastic since I had a case of them. When they break (rarely) I just replace the cover. With the clear cover you will also need to purchase weather resistant receptacles that are made to resist sunlight. These new ones are also tamper resistant. Look for WR/ TR.

 

[yeldogt]

The clear plastic eventually yellows -- the metal boxes are bigger. I like the metal ones --

I have a few of the midwest backyard power outlets (also sold under the GE brand) -- they are great for areas where they get used a lot. They are the biggest (only surface mount) -- easy to paint. They make them with two GFI outlets and also with a GFI and a switch. Can't kill them.

 

[ard]

Consider painting the PVC components (obviously not the clear parts) to protect against UV. I've done this for years with PVC pipe, as well as conduits.

 

[captain14]

The clear plastic eventually yellows -- the metal boxes are bigger. I like the metal ones --

I have a few of the midwest backyard power outlets (also sold under the GE brand) -- they are great for areas where they get used a lot. They are the biggest (only surface mount) -- easy to paint. They make them with two GFI outlets and also with a GFI and a switch. Can't kill them.

I'll look For those on the web. Thanks

Thanks For the other responses about the plastic boxes. That was my gut feeling they would have issues

10-15 years ago I placed metal Boxes on the driveway side and near the front entry. No issues with those boxes.