How To Fit An Access Panel

Access panels are both convenient and useful within the home. They eliminate the need to cause any kind of demolition to a room when you need to gain access to faucets and valves.

If you’re looking to install an access panel in your home, this guide will support you every step of the way.

 

What Is An Access Panel?

Access panels can be installed into walls or ceilings, giving you easy access to plumbing parts or fire hazards. You can also utilise access panels for the likes of telephone or data cables, electrical boxes or breaker boxes. They are particularly useful to use if you’re converting a utility space, such as a basement or a garage, into a living area.

Access panels comel in a host of different sizes, from small boxes that are just large enough to get your fist through, to larger boxes that are big enough for someone to crawl through. There’s also the option of surface mounting or flush mounting – the latter is slightly more difficult to install but far less visible.

Though access panel regulations need to be thoroughly adhered to, the feature is super easy to fit yourself in just a few simple steps. There are multiple different types of access panel available, though plastic access panels are generally more economical and are available in a wide variety of styles.

Installing Access Panels 

Here’s how to fit and install an access panel in drywall.

Step One:

First, you need to decide where you want your access panel to be installed. Hold  it flush against the wall and trace it’s outline with a pencil. This will ensure you’ve got the right size and shape before you begin cutting.

 
Step Two: 

Next, you need to cut the hole out using a jab saw. Cut along the top line and then down the two sides before deeply scoring the bottom line. You should then be able to push the cut square to free it and make it fall from the wall. To get the most accurate cut, keep the edges of the square to the wall’s surface.

Step Three:

Remove the panel cover away from its frame – you may need to use a drywall screwdriver or knife to carefully pry it apart. Next, you’ll need to apply a bead of acrylic latex caulk straight along the back of the frame, resulting in roughly ¼ of beading 

Step Four: 

Hold the frame in place against the square hole, pressing firmly with pressure to ensure the caulk sticks properly to the wall. You’ll need to ensure the frame is straight, so use a spirit level if necessary. 

Push hard on the frame to make sure it’s firmly fixed in place. Inexpensive spring clamps are ideal for holding the housing in place against the wall while the adhesive sets, allowing you to carry on with other tasks without worrying that it will get knocked out of position

Step Five:

Using a wet cloth, wipe away any caulk that has squeezed out of the gaps and use this opportunity to check if there are any gaps that need filling in. Leave the caulk to set for a couple of hours, or ideally overnight, to ensure that you don’t break the caulk seal before it’s fully set.

Step Six: 

Once the caulk has set, you can install the cover of the panel. Be sure to wait long enough before removing the panel to allow the caulk enough time to completely dry and seal, otherwise it could break apart.

Of course, this is also a job that can be done by a professional. We highly recommend getting a helping hand, particularly if this isn’t something you have done before.