The Small, Affordable Swap That Can Make Your Home Look High-End

When trying to create a home that is high-end and perfectly styled to your tastes, it is important to remember all of the details, no matter how small. It's easy to fixate on larger features, such as color schemes and furniture, but getting things right, down to the smallest screw, can truly bring your home to the next level. If you need to convince yourself to prioritize something seemingly minor, such as updating your light switch covers, consider how elevated design can hugely increase your home value, and you'll finally get around to the task.

Light switch covers, even if they are a basic model, can date a space and disrupt the stylistic flow. There are all kinds of creative ways to spice up your light switch covers, but the best way to make your space look more high-end is to simply swap them out for screwless models. By hiding the hardware, screwless covers look sleek and seamless, giving them an overall modern feel. They are often made of thermoplastic or metal, giving them a more luxurious feel and greater durability. 

They are also a bit easier to clean and maintain since you don't need to worry about removing dirt and dust from the crevices around the screw. When you need to remove the cover to wash it thoroughly, the process is also easier than removing screws. So, although screwless light switch covers may cost a bit more than standard ones, there are some clear benefits relating to style and practicality. Even if they do cost slightly more, they're still affordable — screwless covers start at as little as $4.50 for a single switch plate.

To install a screwless light switch cover, you first need to make sure that the power is off. Then, remove the existing cover using the appropriate screwdriver, which is typically a flat-head. When the old cover is off, you will situate the inner frame of the screwless wall plate and secure it. Despite being called screwless, these light switch covers do require some discreet screws to hold them in place, but they are hidden beneath the cover. The screws should be in the same location as a standard frame, making the installation process simple. Finally, snap the cover into place. This should be fairly easy and require only a bit of pressure to lock it into the base. If there is a gap between the wall and cover, be sure to leave it because the gap allows you to remove the plate as needed. With the new screwless system installed, you can turn the power back on and test your chic new switch.

When choosing your new light switch cover, you may wonder if you should match it to your wall color. Part of the appeal of a screwless wall plate is its seamlessness, and making the plate match the wall will enhance the effect. On the other hand, a black, white, or metallic cover that contrasts with the wall color can play into the modern look or turn a particularly cool cover into a focal point. When contrasting the walls, matching the cover to the room's trim, hardware, furniture, or general color scheme in a good way to keep the space feeling cohesive, so your screwless light switch cover looks its best.