IP ratingsUpdated 15 Sept 2026

Can I fasten an enclosure to a wall directly without affecting its IP rating?

Short answer

An enclosure can be fastened directly to a wall without compromising its IP rating, provided the fixing method doesn't breach the enclosure's seal. The three standard approaches are a separate mounting plate, external fixing feet, or internal fixing points sealed with grommets and cover screws.

Fastening an enclosure to a wall directly may affect its ingress protection (IP) rating if the wall or base of the unit is compromised. Therefore, if protection against dust and moisture is essential for the enclosure and its application, it is important to find a suitable fixing method that will not compromise the IP rating.

There are three main ways to securely attach an enclosure to the wall while maintaining the IP rating. They can be fastened by means of mounting plates, external feet or internal fixing positions.

It is possible to fit a mounting plate onto the wall before installing the enclosure. In this way, dust and water protections are maintained. Mountings incorporated into the enclosure structure are also available. These can be external, which completely separate the fixing positions from the body of the enclosure. Otherwise, the mounting points can be internal, but isolated from the wiring using grommets supplied with the enclosure.

All three are used throughout the Spelsberg range. For the internal mounting option, we provide cover screws that ensure maximum adherence to the enclosure, even when the device is mounted on a slanted surface, ensuring IP performance is maintained.

If you have specific questions about enclosure mountings for a project that you’re working on please feel free to send me a private message and I will help to identify the best enclosure for your needs.

For more information on IP ratings in different electrical enclosures visit https://www.spelsberg.co.uk/news/news-press/detail/ip-ratings-and-what-you-need-to-know/