Frequently Asked Questions

Every Wallware plate is solid brass, not plated or coated. Brass is heavy, corrosion-resistant, and holds up far better than the plastic or stamped-steel covers found at most hardware stores. Each plate is hand-finished before shipping.

Century is our traditional line with beveled edges that suit heritage and transitional homes. Futura is the modern line with flat, minimal profiles for contemporary spaces.

Both are solid brass with the same finish options, so you can mix styles across rooms.

Four finishes across both lines:

Polished Brass has a bright, mirror-like gold surface. Satin Nickel is a soft silver with a brushed texture. Satin Brass is a warm gold, also brushed. Coal Black Brass is a deep dark finish available only in the Futura line.

Century comes in Polished Brass, Satin Nickel, and Satin Brass. Futura comes in all four.

We carry plates for every standard opening:

Toggle for traditional flip switches. Rocker/Decora for wide paddle-style switches. Duplex Outlet for standard two-plug receptacles. Push Button for push-button switches. Blank plates cover unused electrical boxes.

We also carry combination plates that pair different openings in one plate, like a toggle switch next to an outlet.

Yes. Every plate ships with color-matched screws so the hardware doesn't stand out against the finish.

A gang is the number of device openings in a wall plate. A single-gang plate covers one switch or outlet, a double-gang covers two side by side, and so on.

Four standard sizes: single gang (one opening), double gang (two), triple gang (three), and four gang (four).

Each size comes in multiple configurations, including combination plates that mix different opening types.

Count the switches or outlets grouped together on the wall. Each one takes up one gang.

A single light switch needs a single-gang plate. Two switches side by side need a double-gang. If the devices are different types (say, a toggle next to an outlet), look for a combination plate in that gang size.

Our plates follow standard US dimensions:

Single gang: approximately 4.50 x 2.75 in.
Double gang: approximately 4.50 x 4.56 in.
Triple gang: approximately 4.50 x 6.38 in.
Four gang: approximately 4.50 x 8.19 in.

These fit any standard US electrical box.

Yes. All Wallware plates fit standard US electrical boxes and devices. They use standard 6-32 mounting screws and work with all major switch, outlet, and dimmer brands.

Combination plates have different device openings in a single multi-gang plate. A toggle + outlet combo, for example, has a toggle opening on one side and a duplex outlet opening on the other.

We carry many configurations in double-gang and triple-gang sizes, so you can match exactly what's on your wall.

Push-button switches use a mechanical mechanism where pressing one button closes the circuit (on) and pressing the other opens it (off). The satisfying click comes from a spring-loaded contact system that's been reliable since the 1890s. For a detailed technical breakdown, see our complete guide to how push-button switches work.

Yes. Our push-button switches are standard on/off switches that work with any bulb type — LED, incandescent, halogen, or CFL. There are no wattage restrictions. If you experience any flickering with certain LED bulbs, our LED compatibility guide covers common fixes.

It's the same process as replacing any toggle switch. Turn off the breaker, disconnect the old switch, connect the same wires to the new one, and mount it in the box. About 15 minutes and a flat-head screwdriver. No electrician required. Follow our step-by-step installation guide for a full walkthrough.

Toggle switches use a lever that flips up and down. Push-button switches use two separate buttons — one for on, one for off — with a distinct mechanical click. Push buttons were the standard before toggles replaced them in the mid-20th century. Read our detailed push-button vs. toggle comparison for a full breakdown of feel, function, and style.

Push-button switches were invented in the 1890s and became the standard in American homes for over half a century. They were eventually replaced by the toggle switch in the 1940s and 50s. Today, reproduction push-button switches bring back that heritage craftsmanship with modern electrical standards. Explore the full story in our history of push-button light switches.

You need two parts: the switch mechanism and a wall plate to frame it. Choose your plate in Century (beveled, traditional) or Futura (clean-lined, modern), in up to four finishes. You need one switch per button position on the plate. Our buying guide covers everything you need to know about selecting the right setup.

It takes about a minute per plate:

1. Turn off power at the circuit breaker.
2. Unscrew and remove the old plate.
3. Place the new plate over the switches or outlets.
4. Thread in the included screws and tighten gently.
5. Restore power.

No wiring or electrical work involved. You're just swapping a cover. If you're also replacing the switch behind the plate, see our full installation guide.

No. Wall plates are decorative covers that sit over the electrical box. They don't connect to any wiring, so replacing one is a straightforward DIY task.

If you need to change the switches or outlets themselves (the devices behind the plate), that's electrical work and should be done by a licensed electrician.

Just a flathead or Phillips-head screwdriver.

As long as your devices are in standard US electrical boxes, yes. Toggle plates fit standard toggle switches, outlet plates fit standard duplex receptacles, and rocker plates fit Decora-style paddle switches and dimmers.

If you're unsure, check your current plate. Ours use the same standard mounting points.

Yes, always turn off power at the circuit breaker first. The plate itself doesn't carry electricity, but exposed wiring behind it does. It only takes a moment and is worth the precaution.

Wipe with a soft, dry cloth for everyday cleaning. For fingerprints or smudges, use a slightly damp cloth and dry right away.

Avoid abrasive sponges, steel wool, or harsh chemical cleaners. These can scratch or strip the finish.

Our plates have a protective lacquer coating that prevents tarnishing under normal conditions. With basic care, they'll keep their finish for years.

We'd recommend against it. Skip harsh chemicals, ammonia-based products, and anything abrasive. A soft cloth with mild soap and water is all you need.

For the brushed finishes (Satin Nickel and Satin Brass), wipe in the direction of the brush lines to avoid cross-grain marks.

Polished Brass shows fingerprints more than other finishes. A quick wipe with a microfiber cloth keeps it bright.

Satin Nickel and Satin Brass are more forgiving thanks to the brushed texture. Wipe gently in the direction of the grain.

Coal Black Brass is the lowest-maintenance option. The dark surface hides fingerprints well.