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 for or using access panel doors is their material. Different materials are much more suitable for specific areas of a building. 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 install a drywall panel in a location that could cause a fire.

Understanding access doors and panel materials on the market is essential, especially in the construction industry. It will help you not only with the building's overall safety but also save you time and effort. For this reason, Best Access Doors is here to provide the information you need to decide which access door to purchase.

Here are the three most common access panel materials available 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 offer durability that most other access panel materials do not. Many fire-resistant access panels are made of or contain steel because of its 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 essential, especially in commercial and industrial construction. Places where steel panels could be a perfect fit include hospitals, doctors' offices, and any space where hygiene is essential.

Another reason steel is a universal choice for access panels is that 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 who want access to the panel's benefits and features, there is a plastic option. 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 and in some commercial settings. They are easy to install and can provide a clean aesthetic finish. Depending on the type of access panel, it can also go behind a painting or a piece of furniture.

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

3. Drywall

Next to steel, drywall is just as common a choice for access panel material. Drywall is a budget-friendly solution for accessing panels, and it can be customized to suit installers' needs. A conventional drywall panel is flush. A drywall access panel is one you should consider when concealing wires and pipes, and it also serves as a form of storage.

Drywall access doors are a material that can be used in ceilings and walls, and are 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 three universal access panel materials mentioned above; there are other options to consider.

Aluminum

Aluminum is an extremely versatile material for access doors due to its ability to be lightweight, thin, and durable. Moreover, its corrosion resistance makes it outstanding for both outdoor and indoor use in areas highly prone to moisture.

Aluminum is also an excellent material in places subject to high heat and extreme moisture or humidity. It is because aluminum access panels have high corrosion resistance and high heat resistance. If you prefer secure handling and installation, aluminum is the best choice.

Gypsum

Gypsum access panels are incredibly lightweight and robust due to their combination of minerals and high-strength glass. Access doors made of high-quality gypsum are also completely resistant to fungal growth and mold.

Because gypsum is lightweight, it is an excellent material for installing concealed service panels, especially in thin walls. Furthermore, gypsum access panels are made primarily from recycled materials, making them ideal for environmentally conscious 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 that slow or prevent the spread of fire and smoke. 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 a fire for a specific period, they are still combustible. They will eventually burn out after that period. 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-minute. If the construction project involves office buildings and places like condominiums and dormitories, you'd better consider using access doors with fire-rated materials.

Final Thoughts

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

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