The Oxide Journal: Light Switch Guides & Brass Care

3-Way Switch Wiring Diagrams: 4 Common Layouts, Explained

A 3-way switch circuit lets you control one light from two places. Here's how the common and traveler wires work, and the four wiring layouts you're most likely to find in your walls.

Luxury Light Switches: A Buyer's Guide to High-End Switches

A luxury light switch isn't about a logo. It's about solid material, a plate that sits right, a mechanism that feels precise and a finish that ages well. Here's what to check.

Types of Dimmer Switches: Rotary, Slide, Toggle and Smart

Rotary, slide, toggle, rocker or smart: dimmer switches differ in how they feel, how they wire and which bulbs they suit. Here's how each type works and how to choose.

How to Wire a Double Light Switch (Two Switches, One Box)

A double light switch is usually two switches side by side in a 2-gang box, sharing one power feed. Here's how it's wired and how to replace it safely, step by step.

Light Switch Height: Standard and ADA Measurements by Room

The standard light switch height in US homes is about 48 inches from the floor, and the ADA range is 15 to 48 inches. Here's how to place switches room by room, and how to plan a clean multi-gang w...

How to Install a Dimmer Switch: Wiring Single Pole and 3-Way

Installing a dimmer is close to replacing a switch, with two extra checks: the neutral wire and the wattage. Here's how to install and wire one, single pole or 3-way.

Double Dimmer Switch: How to Control Two Lights From One Plate

A double dimmer switch lets you dim two lights independently from one spot. Here's the difference between single-gang dual dimmers and 2-gang plates, and how to choose.

Toggle vs Rocker Switch: Which Light Switch Is Right for Your Home?

Toggle or rocker? Both do the same job, but they look and feel very different and use different wall plates. Here's how to choose.

Single Pole vs 3-Way Switch: What's the Difference and Which Do You Need?

If two switches control the same light, you have 3-way switches. Here's how to tell them apart from single pole switches before you buy a replacement.

How to Clean Brass: Unlacquered Brass Care and Patina

How to clean brass without ruining it: what to use on lacquered, unlacquered, aged and satin brass, how to remove tarnish, and when to let the patina be.