Access Panels In Plasterboard Ceilings

Plasterboard access panels are aesthetically pleasing and are functional for regular access to the attic.

When you need access to electrical, plumbing or attic space, an access panel will need to be installed. There are many types of prefabricated plasterboard access panels. The panel door can drop-in or have hinges with a lock, and be shaped as a circle, square or rectangle. Access panels can be used in new construction or for adding an attic access in an existing ceiling. Access panels are designed to blend seamlessly into the ceiling. Access panels come with an energy-saving gasket seal around the panel to prevent heat transfer between the attic and living space, saving you money.

Instructions

1. Measure the distance between the ceiling rafters to choose the width of the access panel needed. Cut 2-by-4 studs for blocking to frame a box between the rafters using the recommended size for the rough opening for the panel. Example: If the measurement between rafters is 24 inches, the width of the panel would need to be 22 inches; if it is 36 inches between the rafters, the panel would be 30 inches wide. If the access panel is used in new construction, pick the access panel size you want and frame the opening to fit the access panel.

2. Screw the access panel frame to the ceiling rafters with drywall screws. Plasterboard the rest of the ceiling, butting the drywall up against the frame of the access panel. If the ceiling is finished before the access panel is installed, cut the plasterboard ceiling with a drywall saw between the rafters for the width of the panel and along the rafters for the length of the access panel. Example: The rough opening would be 24 inches wide and 36 inches long for a 22-by-30-inch access panel.

3. Apply a thin coating of drywall compound around the seam of the access panel where the plasterboard meets the panel with a 4-inch putty knife. Cut the paper drywall tape to fit the seam and stick it to the compound on the seam. Scrape the excess compound off the seam, smoothing the tape flat onto the seam. Apply three coats of drywall compound on the seam, letting it dry between coats.

4. Sand the excess dry compound with a sanding block to blend the access panel into the ceiling. The ceiling and access panel are ready for paint.

Tags: access panel, between rafters, compound seam, ceiling Access, ceiling Access panels