As my clients and I walked through their new home prior to closing we noticed one of the ceiling access panels in the basement was missing and would need to be replaced. I realized I didn’t know much about what types of access panels were available, what materials they were made of, and how they could be mounted. It’s not the most exciting aspect of interior design and decorating, but the 5th wall is an important part of any cohesive design plan.

Access panels or doors provide access to concealed areas that house mechanical or electrical components, plumbing, or other storage spaces. This makes later inspection, maintenance, replacements or repairs much easier and more routine. Many of them come premade with frames. Others you can do on your own. Premade panels come in a range of materials and finishes for an unobtrusive look.

Types Of Access Panels

There are several access panel designs made for specific purposes. Fire-rated panels are designed to comply with fire safety standards and to be fire-resistant in case of outbreaks. They’re made to provide access in walls and ceilings that are also fire rated. Ceiling panels allow access for insulation or electrical maintenance and are designed to have a flush and seamless appearance. Other designs are hinged and rely on a latch. According to Up Ceilings, lift and shift access panels rely on gravity to remain closed and as such are limited to ceilings. Drywall access panels maintain aesthetics by hiding away wire, cables or plumbing. They come in several designs, including flange-installed, gypsum and removable plastic. Plaster access panels are made to work best in plaster-covered surfaces. They can come in self-closing and locking designs and are made to be durable.

Materials

Access panels are made with a range of materials according to purpose and area. Steel doors are resistant to high temperatures and provide strength. Plastic panels are made to be resistant to fading or corrosion. They’re a good choice for hidden fittings in kitchens or bathrooms and can even be painted to match the area around them. Gypsum is good for ceilings because it can be textured to blend in, it doesn’t crack or shrink, and according to Georgia-Pacific, it’s lightweight. Aluminum is useful in protective panels for fuse boxes and heating and air conditioning.

Mounting Types

For flush mounting, panels have housings that adhere to the backside of the wall opening. Cracks between the wall and housing are filled with drywall compound. Surface-mounted panels come with housing that clamps to the inside and outside of the wall with an exterior flange that panels hinge to or snap in and out of. For a DIY design and an out-of-the-way installation, you can fashion your own plywood panel and wood frame and screw the panel into the frame.

Access panels are for anywhere hidden you need to get to quickly and without having to tear down a wall. This also includes panels specially made for roofs, floors and watertight areas.

Need some more tips on how to decorate the inside of your house? Contact us today to schedule an interior design session!