A building has many complicated systems and sensitive components that run beneath the walls, in the ceiling, and below the floor. Access panels are an integral part of modern buildings; they neatly tuck away wires, pipes, valves, and control while providing convenient access for maintenance and repairs.  

When you need the best access doors, new products, varying sizes, and material considerations can be confusing. So, let’s go over some of the basics! 

The Benefits of Installing Access Panels 

Many benefits come when you add access panels to your building. The components behind your walls will be easy to access for maintenance and repairs. Your team can quickly, safely, and effectively address issues, saving you time and reducing costs.  

Convenient and Easy Access:

Your maintenance personnel can use these access doors and panels to investigate faults, fix damaged installations or equipment, and move equipment necessary for the building’s care. With regular maintenance and inspections, you will safeguard your structure from potential threats and provides access to deal with problems as they develop.  

By carefully choosing your access door according to your specific needs, you can select panels with unique features according to your project specifications. Be sure to pick the right type for the job and double-check that you have the correct measurements. If you’re unsure, get the advice of a qualified professional to ensure that you make the right choice. 

Helps You to Meet Building Code Requirements:

Access panels will assist your project in meeting the requirements of numerous regulatory organizations or authorities, such as OSHA or LEED. It ensures that your structure is functioning and serviceable, giving your occupants peace of mind.  

A Look at Types of Access Doors and Panels  

In contrast to a regular frame that does not reach the bottom of the door, access panels often have an all-around framing. They usually have a cylinder and lock that enables the proper locking of the door using a key. Some also have a triangle locking mechanism to make the entrance more accessible.  

Most manufacturers include a comprehensive list of access doors and panels containing product details and information. 

Here are some examples of types and their applications:  

Fire Rated Panels:

You can find many different fire-rated access panels available in the market. These products help reduce the spread of fire for a limited period giving you valuable time to mitigate the impacts of heat when a fire occurs. Because they have varying fire ratings, you should check first to see which one best meets your needs.  

Security Panels:

There are two security panel categories: medium and high. Their fundamental mechanisms improve their ability to protect a space from unwanted or forced entry. This panel’s primary material is commonly galvanneal steel, making it strong and resistant to most environmental impacts and damages.  

Government buildings, mental clinics, academic facilities, hospitals, luxury stores, and banks are examples of buildings that require heightened security. Security panels are suitable for these buildings due to their unique feature.  

Airtight/Watertight Panels:

You can utilize these panels in places where you need to seal the room off. Help to prevent the passage of air, water, or moisture. These panels must pass a test for air penetration and water infiltration before you can use them to guarantee they work properly. Typical applications are in isolation rooms, operating rooms, laboratories, and other settings.  

Steel or stainless steel are standard material compositions, making them tough and resilient to physical damage. It could also include a coating to improve its rust and resistance to other elements. Several sizes are available, and the manufacturer can even make customized sizes for you.  

General Purpose Panels:

General purpose panels are very popular because they tend to cost less and are multi-purpose. You can install them on almost any surface, most commonly walls and ceilings. Many builders use them due to versatility, and you may add a variety of extra features if your structure has unique needs.  

Exterior Panels:

As the name implies, it is a panel well-suited for outdoor or exterior use. Because most materials degrade outdoors, this type incorporates elements that fortify it to last and operate as designed. This type of corrosion is in many humid settings and coastal areas due to water in the environment causing damage to the materials.  

The Takeaway  

If you have questions, contact a professional for advice on choosing the best type of access panel for your building’s needs.