Access Panels

Access Panels - High-Quality Solutions for Walls and Ceilings

Access panels are essential components in both commercial and residential spaces, providing easy and convenient access to hidden utilities such as wiring, ductwork, plumbing, and more. Designed for use in walls and ceilings, these versatile panels allow maintenance and repairs to be carried out with minimal disruption to the surrounding environment. At Access Panel Store, we offer a wide range of access panels tailored to suit various requirements, including fire-rated and non-fire-rated options, ceiling access panels, loft hatches, and custom-made solutions.

Comprehensive Range of Access Panels

At Access Panel Store, we stock an extensive variety of access panels to meet diverse needs. Our selection includes metal access panels, plastic access panels, fire-rated access panels, and ceiling access panels, ensuring that whatever your building requirements are, we have the right solution. We also offer bespoke, made-to-order access panels to accommodate unique specifications, including custom sizes, fire ratings, and finishes.

Fire-Rated Access Panels

Our fire-rated access panels are available in both metal and plasterboard designs, with options for 1-hour, 2-hour, and 4-hour fire protection. These panels are essential for maintaining fire safety regulations in commercial and residential buildings, offering peace of mind and compliance with UK and European standards. Whether you need a fire-rated wall access panel or a fire-rated ceiling access panel, our products provide a reliable barrier against fire while maintaining easy access to utilities.

Non-Fire-Rated Access Panels

We also stock a wide selection of non-fire-rated access panels, which are ideal for areas that don't require fire protection. Available with metal, plasterboard, plastic, or tiled doors, these panels offer flexibility and can seamlessly blend into any decor. For spaces like bathrooms and kitchens, our tiled access panels provide a discrete solution by allowing tiles to be applied directly to the panel door, maintaining a consistent look across the surface.

Bespoke Access Panels

For more specific requirements, Access Panel Store offers custom-made access panels that can be manufactured to your exact specifications. Our bespoke options include:

• Custom sizes to fit non-standard spaces.
• Varied fire ratings, from 1 to 4 hours.
• Frame choices between picture or beaded frames.
• RAL colour matching to suit your aesthetic preferences.
• Multiple locking options, including tamper-proof locks.
• Acoustic rating, antibacterial coatings, and air-tight seals for specialised environments.

If you need a custom solution, simply contact our expert team to discuss your requirements, and we’ll help you design the perfect panel for your project.

Ceiling Access Panels and Loft Hatches

We also offer ceiling access panels, which provide convenient access to overhead utilities. Our ceiling panels come in standard sizes such as 600x600mm and are easy to install, making them ideal for commercial environments. Additionally, we supply loft hatches, offering a seamless and practical solution for accessing loft spaces in homes and offices.

Key Features and Benefits of Access Panels

• Fire protection: Our fire-rated access panels provide protection from 1 to 4 hours, meeting all necessary safety standards.
• Easy installation: Many of our access panels come equipped with the FlipFix device, ensuring quick and hassle-free installation.
• Multiple sizes: Choose from a range of standard sizes or opt for a bespoke solution for unique project needs.
• Customisable options: Select from various materials, finishes, and colours, including antibacterial coatings and acoustic-rated options.
• High quality: All of our access panels are manufactured in the UK to meet the highest standards of safety and durability.

Expert Advice and Free Delivery

At Access Panel Store, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional products backed by outstanding customer service. We offer free delivery to the UK mainland and a 10-year guarantee on all access panels. If you need help selecting the right access panel for your project, our knowledgeable team is here to assist. Contact us today for expert advice or to request a quote for custom-made access panels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below you will find answers to common questions relating to access panels. If you can’t find what you are looking for, contact us today to get your questions answered.

What is an access panel?

An access panel is a discreet, removable or hinged door that allows easy access to hidden utilities such as pipes, electrical wiring, ductwork, and other building systems that require maintenance or inspection. These panels are installed in walls, ceilings, and sometimes floors, and they provide a convenient way to reach these utilities without needing to demolish or disrupt surrounding structures.

What are common access panel sizes?

Access panels come in a range of standard sizes to fit most applications. Common sizes include:

• 150x150mm
• 200x200mm
• 300x300mm
• 450x450mm
• 600x600mm
• 900x600mm
• 1200x600mm

In addition to these standard dimensions, Access Panel Store offers custom-made access panels, allowing you to order panels tailored to specific sizes for non-standard spaces.

What is the difference between an access panel and an access door?

While the terms "access panel" and "access door" are often used interchangeably, there is a subtle difference. Access panels are typically used for smaller, often less visible openings in walls and ceilings. Access doors, on the other hand, are larger and may include features such as fire-rating, insulation, and more robust locking systems. Access doors are usually installed in areas where frequent or secure access is required, such as riser shafts or larger utility cupboards.

What are the benefits of access panels?

Access panels offer several key benefits, including:

• Convenient access: They allow maintenance workers to reach hidden utilities without major disruption.
• Versatility: Available in fire-rated, non-fire-rated, ceiling, wall, and custom designs to suit any need.
• Aesthetics: Many access panels can blend into the wall or ceiling seamlessly, maintaining the space's visual appeal.
• Safety: Fire-rated access panels provide crucial fire protection, preventing the spread of flames and smoke through building cavities.
• Cost-effective: They offer a long-term solution for accessing utilities without costly reconstruction work.

Do access panels need to be fire-rated?

Access panels should be fire-rated if they are installed in a location where building regulations require fire protection. For example, in areas like corridors, riser shafts, or walls that form part of a fire-rated compartment, you must use fire-rated access panels. Fire-rated panels provide protection ranging from 1 to 4 hours, ensuring compliance with UK and European fire safety standards.

How much does it cost to install an access panel?

The cost to install an access panel can vary depending on the size, material, and type of panel, as well as the complexity of the installation. For a standard FlipFix access panel, installation is relatively straightforward and can be done by a DIY enthusiast or a professional tradesperson. For bespoke or fire-rated access panels, the cost may be higher, especially if a more complex fitting is required. For specific pricing, contact us for a detailed quote.

How do I install an access panel?

Many access panels, like those from Access Panel Store, are designed for easy installation. Panels with the FlipFix device can be installed quickly without the need for additional framing or screws. The general steps include:

1. Cut a hole in the wall or ceiling based on the size of the panel.
2. Fit the panel frame into the opening.
3. Secure the panel using screws or by clamping the FlipFix tabs into the surrounding plasterboard.
4. Check that the panel door fits securely and operates smoothly.

For fire-rated panels, professional installation may be required to ensure compliance with building regulations.

What fire-rated options are there for access panels?

At Access Panel Store, we offer a range of fire-rated access panels designed to provide protection from 1 to 4 hours. These panels can be installed in both walls and ceilings and are made from durable materials like metal or plasterboard. Options include:

• Metal access panels with a picture or beaded frame.
• Plasterboard access panels with a beaded frame.
• Circular and overbox fire-rated panels.
  If you are unsure about the fire rating required for your project, contact our team for expert advice.

What factors should I consider when selecting access panels?

When choosing an access panel, consider the following:

• Location: Is the panel for a wall or ceiling? Different panels are suited to different locations.
• Fire rating: Does the space require fire protection? If so, select a fire-rated panel.
• Size: Ensure the panel is large enough for convenient access to the utilities behind it.
• Aesthetic: If appearance is important, choose a panel that blends seamlessly with the surroundings.
• Locking mechanism: Depending on security needs, select from standard tee-key locks, tamper-proof locks, or budget locks.
• Additional features: For specific environments, consider features like acoustic insulation, air-tight seals, or antibacterial coatings.

What are access panels used for?

Access panels are used to provide hidden yet accessible entry points to building services such as:

• Electrical wiring
• Plumbing pipes
• Ductwork
• HVAC systems
  They are commonly found in commercial buildings, offices, hospitals, and homes, wherever regular access to concealed utilities is required for inspection, maintenance, or repair.

Can I paint my access panels to match the surrounding decor?

Yes, many of our access panels can be painted to blend with surrounding walls or ceilings. Standard RAL 9010 panels should not be painted, but we offer dust-primed panels that are ready for painting on-site. You can also choose to customise your panel with a RAL colour of your choice, ensuring it perfectly matches your interior design.

What locking options are available for access panels?

We offer a variety of locking options to suit different security needs, including:

• Budget locks (standard on most panels).
• Flush locks.
• 3-way locks.
• Tamper-proof locks.
• Euro cylinder locks.
  For higher security applications, such as in hospitals or prisons, we also provide anti-ligature locks. If you require a specific type of lock, contact our team for more information and a bespoke solution.