The 3 Common Access Panel Material Makes to Consider

Are you a builder? How about a contractor? Maybe you have a client who is looking to incorporate access panels in their next project. When it comes to construction projects, one of the main things to consider when shopping or looking to use access panel doors is their material. Different materials are much more suitable in a specific place of a build. Take, for instance, a heat resistant access panel would be ideal in kitchens or rooms where machines emit extreme heat. The last thing you want to do is put a drywall panel in a place that could result in a fire.

Knowing about access doors and panel materials in the market is essential, especially in the construction industry. It will help you not only in terms of the building's overall safety but also in saving you time and effort. For this reason, Best Access Doors is here to give you the necessary information to help you decide on what access door you should purchase.

Here are the three most common access panel materials that you can find on the market today.

1. Steel

Steel is a common material for access panels. Steel makes access doors and panels resistant to extreme heat and strong and sturdy. Steel access panels have a durability that most access panel materials have. Many fire-resistant access panels are made from or are part steel because of their high melting point.

Stainless steel panels are also popular among contractors, builders, and architects. Unlike drywall or plaster, stainless steel access doors are resistant to mold and mildew. This quality of steel makes it a necessity, especially when it comes to commercial and industrial construction. Places, where steel panels could be a perfect fit, include hospitals, a doctor's office, or any space where hygiene is essential.

Another reason that steel is a universal access panel choice is that, aesthetically, it does not rust or change color. Whether for internal or external use, a steel access door and panel can enhance any job or project.

2. Plastic

For those on a budget but want to get access panel's benefits and functionalities, there is the option of plastic. Plastic access panels are a budget-friendly solution and serve as a great introduction to access door panels. They are fantastic in multi-residential buildings, as well as some commercial settings. They are easy to install and can provide a clean aesthetic finish. Depending on the type of access panel, they can also go behind a painting or furniture piece.

Plastic is a material that offers a lightweight solution to any project. Plastic access doors can are ideal for installations in ceilings or walls, and if the panel happens to get damaged, you won't have to worry since it is easily replaceable.

3. Drywall

Next to steel, drywall is just as typical of an access panel material choice. Drywall is a budget-friendly solution to access panels, not to mention it can be customized to suit the installers' needs. A conventional drywall panel is one that is flushed. A drywall access panel is one that you should consider when concealing wires and pipes, not to mention act as a form of storage.

Drywall access doors is a material that can be used in the ceiling and wall and is an ideal choice for anyone looking for a discreet panel solution.

Other Access Panel Material Makes

However, you don't have to limit yourself to the abovementioned three universal access panel material makes since there are still other options that you can consider.

• Aluminum

Aluminum is an extremely versatile material for access doors due to its capability of being lightweight, thin, and durable. Moreover, its resistance to corrosion makes it outstanding when it comes to both outdoor and indoor use in areas that are highly-prone to moisture.

Aluminum also makes for excellent material in places subject to high heat and extreme moisture or humid conditions. It is because aluminum access panels have high corrosion resistance combined with a high heat-resistant level. If you prefer secure handling and installation, aluminum is the best choice that you can go for.

• Gypsum

Gypsum access panels are incredibly lightweight and robust because of the combination of minerals and high-strength glass. Access doors that have high-quality gypsum are also totally resistant to fungus growth and mold.

Because gypsum is lightweight, it is an excellent material for installing concealed service panels, especially if the walls are thin. Furthermore, gypsum access panels are made mostly from recycled materials, making them perfect for environmentally-friendly people.

• Fire-Rated

A more common access door, especially in commercial buildings, is the fire-rated access panel. A fire-rated door has a distinctive design and materials to slow down or prevent fire and smoke from spreading. Most fire-rated materials are metal or gypsum, which makes a fire-rated door very heavy.

While fire-rated materials can resist heat and flames to slow the fire for a specific period, the same is still combustible and will eventually burn through fire after the time frame. It would be best to keep in mind the time rating for every fire-rated access door you purchase. Standard ratings for fire-rated access doors and panels are typically 20- to 90-minutes. If the construction project involves office buildings and places like condominiums and dormitories, you better consider using access doors with fire-rated materials.

Final Thoughts

Access panels are necessary to protect and access important building structures such as electrical and plumbing systems, security systems, computer wiring, and communication systems. Keep in mind that access panel doors are best when they have sturdy and heavy-duty materials like BA-BFRD Fire-Rated Exposed Flange Oversized Attic Access Doors. However, you also have to remember that not all access doors and panels are from the same stuff, even at the highest quality level. Plenty of access door material options are in the market, so you have to understand which of those will bet fit your building application.

Whatever your next project is – a home renovation, a commercial build, no matter how big or small, is an array of access panel materials worth choosing. To learn more or view our inventory of access panels, visit us our product page. Find the perfect panel to meet all your building needs without breaking the bank.