Outlet Cover Costs Explained: What You’re Really Paying For?

So, you’re browsing through covers for electrical outlets—and suddenly, you’re stuck. One is 75 cents. Another? Nearly $10. They all look similar… so what’s the catch?

Here’s the truth: Outlet covers aren’t just plastic or metal slabs. They're safety devices. They’re code compliance. And sometimes, they’re your protection against weather, dust, tampering, or electrical fires.

Let’s break down the real cost components, so you know what you’re actually paying for—and what’s worth your money.

The 6 Major Factors That Decide the Price

It’s not just about appearance. The price of an outlet cover depends on several built-in features that affect its material strength, use case, and safety level.

Here’s what you should be watching:

What Impacts Outlet Cover Pricing?

1. Material – Plastic, metal, or stainless steel? Durability varies—and so does cost.
   
   
2. Gang Type – Single gang? Double gang? Or the premium decorator style?
   
   
3. Tamper-Resistance – Especially important for residential and child-safe zones.
   
   
4. Weatherproofing – Required for outdoor and wet-location applications.
   
   
5. NEMA Ratings – Industry-approved protection against moisture, corrosion, and debris.
   
   
6. Code Compliance – Fail inspection? That cheap cover just got expensive.
   
   

And here’s something you probably didn’t expect...

Surprise #1: Plastic Isn’t Always the Cheapest

You’d assume plastic covers for electrical outlets are the budget pick, right? Not always. High-grade thermoplastics—used in tamper-resistant outlet covers or UV-protected models—can be more expensive than entry-level metal covers. That extra cost buys you fire resistance, durability, and long-term safety.

Material Matters: Plastic vs Metal vs Stainless

Let’s compare how material selection changes price—and purpose.

Weatherproof Covers: Not All Are Built Equal

Here’s a biggie: weatherproof covers for electrical outlets come in two types—standard (good when not in use) and in-use (still sealed even with a plug connected). Guess which one costs more?

That’s right—the in-use version. But it could save you thousands in damage or rework.

And yes, some inspectors will reject your work if you install the wrong one.

Could the Wrong Cover Cost You the Entire Job?

Absolutely. If your project is inspected and found non-compliant—say, for using non-tamper-resistant covers in residential areas—you’ll pay in delays, fines, and extra labor.

Tamper-Resistant Covers: Required, But Often Ignored

More than a suggestion—tamper-resistance is required in most states for residential builds. These covers have built-in shutters that prevent foreign objects from being inserted.

Yes, they cost more—usually around $1–2 more per cover—but can protect children and meet NEC requirements in one step.

Design Complexity = Higher Cost

Want clean aesthetics or upgraded safety? Decorator and multi-gang covers come with a higher price tag due to more intricate moldings and larger surface areas.

Even a shift from single gang to double gang can double your cost—especially in stainless steel or weatherproof materials.

Are You Buying the Right NEMA-Rated Cover?

If you're buying for an outdoor, warehouse, or industrial application, using the wrong NEMA-rated cover could not only fail the inspection—it could cause serious safety issues. Knowing your NEMA 1s from your 3Rs or 4Xs is critical.

Smart Supply, Better Buys

At General Supply, we make sure you get more than just the lowest price. You get value-matched products—from tamper-resistant home solutions to rugged, industrial-grade NEMA 4X covers. Whether you're a builder, contractor, or DIYer, we’ve got your outlets covered.

Looking for more than electrical? We’re also a top-rated online plumbing supply store, so you can get all your building needs in one place.

Before You Buy, Remember:

●        Material + certification = most of the cost

●        Weatherproof and tamper-resistant features = code compliance

●        Decorator and multi-gang = higher design complexity

●        NEMA-rated = must-have for outdoor/industrial

●        Cheaper covers may cost more in the long run

Final Word:

Outlet covers might seem like a small detail—but in the world of electrical hardware, details matter. Don’t let a $2 saving turn into a $200 mistake.

With General Supply, you get quality, safety, and supply-chain reliability—all under one roof. Whether you're outfitting 10 units or 10,000, we’ve got the right cover at the right cost.