Installing an Access Panel

The key to any installation job is preparation. Poor preparation will usually lead to a poor job so here are some things to consider before you begin.

Do you have the right tools for the job?

There’s nothing more frustrating and more likely to lead to a botched job than doing DIY with ill-suited tools. To fit an access panel you need to make a decent sized hole in a wall, ceiling or floor which means you’re going to need an electric saw. You could use a sharp manual saw but it will make the job more arduous and more time consuming. Electric saws are available to hire from most good tool hire centres. In addition to a saw you’ll more than likely need a number of standard tools as well so keep your toolkit close by.

Is your work space clear?

The more space you have to work in the more likely you are to do a good job. Installing a fire rated access panels with a cupboard or chair hindering your movement is not going to help. Before you begin move every possible obstacle well out of your way.

Have you protected your furniture from dust and debris?

It goes without saying that installing an access panel is going to kick up some dust, particularly if you installing it to your ceiling. Cover your soft furnishings, antiques and other valuables with dust sheets before you begin to avoid damage.

Have you planned exactly where your access panel will go?

Don’t just pick a spot and expect it to be OK. The location of your access panel needs careful planning. Obviously the panel needs to be located as close to the maintenance area as possible, but sometimes it isn’t as simple as that.  It is essential that you locate the whereabouts of electricity cables and plumbing etc within the wall or ceiling before you start making a hole. If there are obstructions where you have planned to locate your access panel it’ll be much cheaper and more sensible to relocate your access panel than to move the obstructions.

Have you marked your spot with a pencil?

If you’re installing your access panel to an existing wall you’ll almost certainly need to repaint or paper it afterwards. If it’s a new wall it most likely won’t have been painted yet – either way it shouldn’t a problem to mark the outline of your hole on the wall in pencil. There are a number of reasons for doing this:

1.    Helps you to cut straighter lines

2.    Ensures you cut the hole in exactly the right spot ie. Avoiding wires and cables

3.    If you need to leave the job and come back to it later you can simply pick up where you left off

Once you have completed your preparation the actual installation should be a piece of cake.