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An access panel gives you a permanent, tidy way back into a wall or ceiling void once it has been boarded and finished. Behind that panel sits everything a building needs and nobody wants to see: isolation valves, junction boxes, fire dampers, stopcocks, pipework and cabling.

Free UK Delivery

Orders Over £200

Fire Rated

Up to 2 Hours

Frame Options

Picture & Beaded Frames

Trade Pricing

Bulk Orders

 Call 0116 360 2699

Explore Our Products

Discover quality solutions designed for performance, durability and easy installation, with options to suit every project.

How to choose the right access panel

Work through these decisions in order and you will land on the right panel without guesswork.

01

Does it need a fire rating?

If the wall or ceiling forms part of a fire compartment, the panel needs to maintain that fire line. Check your fire strategy, approved drawings or Building Control requirements before choosing.

02

Wall, ceiling, or both?

Not every panel is certified for both orientations. Ceiling installations carry the door weight continuously and fire performance can differ, so check the ceiling figure specifically. Dual purpose panels are certified for either.

03

Picture frame or beaded frame?

Picture frame leaves a visible border and is quick to fit. Beaded frame is designed to be skimmed or taped and jointed into the surrounding surface for a near-invisible finish.

04

Which door material?

Metal is robust and suited to commercial work. Plasterboard suits flush finishes. Plastic is a budget choice for domestic and light commercial dry areas, but is not suitable where a fire rating is required.

05

Size and lock

Size the panel to the work that needs to happen behind it. Choose a budget or quarter-turn lock for private areas, and tool-operated or keyed access where casual opening should be prevented.

Selection Criteria

Compare available options against key technical and project requirements, including material, intended use, performance, and finish.

Door material
Typical use
Fire options
Finish
Metal
Commercial, plant rooms, service voids
Non rated, 1 hour, 2 hour
Powder coated, paintable
Plasterboard
Rooms where the panel must be invisible
Non rated, 1 hour [CONFIRM]
Skim or tape and joint
Plastic
Domestic, light commercial, dry areas
Non rated only
White, wipe clean

Bespoke & Made-to-Measure Solutions for Non-Standard Openings

Send us your sizes, drawings or door schedule and we will quote a made-to-measure solution.

A short installation overview

A quick guide to help you understand the installation process from start to finish.

01

Measure

Check the ordered panel size and allow for any specified tolerance before cutting.

02

Mark & check

Mark the cut-out and confirm there are no services behind the cut line.

03

Cut cleanly

Keep edges straight; the frame relies on a snug, secure fit.

04

Dry-fit

Confirm the panel sits correctly and any intumescent seals are intact.

05

Fix securely

Use the supplied fixings and work around the frame so it pulls in evenly.

06

Protect the fire line

On fire rated installations, follow the specified fire-rated sealing detail. Do not paint over intumescent seals.

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Find answers to the most common questions about our services, processes, and how we can help you achieve your goals.

What is an access panel used for?

An access panel provides a removable or hinged opening in a wall or ceiling, allowing access to hidden pipework, cabling, valves and other services. It makes inspection, maintenance and repairs easier without damaging the finished wall or ceiling.

What is the difference between a fire-rated and non-fire-rated access panel?

A fire-rated access panel is tested to maintain the fire resistance of the wall or ceiling it is installed into for a specified period, helping to slow the spread of fire and smoke. A non-fire-rated access panel is designed for general maintenance access where fire compartmentation is not required.

What is the difference between metal, plasterboard and plastic access panels?

Metal access panels are durable and suitable for commercial, industrial and fire-rated applications. Plasterboard access panels feature a plasterboard-faced door that can be skimmed and decorated for a seamless finish. Plastic access panels are lightweight, economical and generally used for non-fire-rated domestic applications.

What is the difference between a picture frame and a beaded frame access panel?

A picture frame access panel has a visible flat frame around the door, creating a neat and defined edge on the finished surface. A beaded frame access panel is designed to be plastered or skimmed over, allowing the frame to blend into the surrounding surface for a more seamless finish.

Can access panels be fitted in both walls and ceilings?

Yes. Access panels can be installed in both walls and ceilings, depending on where access to concealed services is required. Ceiling panels are commonly used to access services above ceilings, while wall panels can provide access to pipework, valves, ductwork and other concealed installations.

How do I choose the right access panel for my project?

First, determine whether you need a fire-rated or non-fire-rated panel. Then choose the appropriate material, such as metal, plasterboard or plastic, based on durability, appearance and application. Finally, select the frame style and size that best suit your wall or ceiling finish and access requirements.

Are access panels easy to install?

Yes. Most access panels are designed for straightforward installation into a prepared opening in a wall or ceiling. They can typically be secured using pre-drilled fixing holes or clip fixings. Beaded frame panels may require plastering or skimming around the frame, while picture frame panels are fitted directly onto the finished surface.

What sizes do access panels come in?

Access panels are available in a range of standard sizes to suit different service openings and access requirements. Available sizes and prices can vary depending on the panel type, fire rating and frame style, so check the individual product listing for the exact dimensions and options available.