What is an access panel?
An access panel is a versatile piece of building material that comes in a wide array of sizes, designs, and materials to serve different purposes. Typically, it provides quality access to critical areas behind walls, ceilings, roofs, and floors and facilitates component repairs and maintenance. Learn more about the different types of access panels by reading more on this page.
General-purpose access doors
This is a popular type of access doors for installation in walls and ceilings in both interior and exterior locations. General-purpose access doors come with relevant optional features such as recessed frames, concealed hinge, and flush installation preserving elegant designs in surfaces where you install them. These doors are applicable in areas where security and fire-safety is not a factor.
Fire rated access door
Designed to meet high safety standards in buildings, fire rated access door is best for installations where fire-safety is a relevant issue. This door is used to safely conceal electrical wiring, HVAC elements, exhaust systems, gas lines, and other flammable materials. It is often equipped with a mineral wool insulation, smoke-proof gasketing, and thick galvanized steel to properly perform its job. Insulated fire rated access door is applicable for both ceiling and wall applications; whereas,  the uninsulated fire rated access door is only for wall installations.
Security access door
Security access doors are available in medium and high security. They are ideal for use in schools, government buildings, banks, prisons, and other secure facilities. Equipped with tamper-proof latches, these doors can stand against forced or illegal entries.
Duct access doors
This door is designed for access to ductwork facilitating duct maintenance and repairs. It comes in a wide range of sizes and forms to meet different duct styles. There are duct access doors available for concealing and protecting HVAC ducts and grease ducts in commercial kitchens.
Exterior access doors
If you need access to plumbing, electrical, and mechanical from outside buildings, exterior access doors are an ideal option. Due to its outdoor location, exterior access doors are designed to be weather-resistant and to provide security to components.
Roof hatch
A roof hatch provides walk-in entry to the roofs of buildings for performing structure maintenance and for rooftop installations and repairs. It also helps facilitate the removal of large equipment in buildings. For residential buildings, a roof hatch is used to access roof patios or gardens.
Floor hatch
When requiring access to building utilities below ground or between floors, a floor hatch installation is ideal. Some floor hatches come with a fire rating to assist with fire safety in buildings and as required by code. A floor hatch also allows walk-in entry to critical areas.
Trying hard to find the right access panel for your building project? Location, size, price, and purpose are four relevant factors in determining the right access panel to buy. For beginners, you are highly advised to seek the help of product experts to avoid wasting time, and money.