Cut An Access Panel Through A Ceiling For Plumbing

An access panel allows a plumber or homeowner to reach pipes and valves behind drywall. Builders usually leave an access panel, but careless drywall contractors occasionally misread or ignore building plans and cover it, leaving you with no way to reach your pipes. Cutting an access panel through the ceiling is a relatively simple project, requiring basic carpentry skills and a few tools.

Instructions

1. Measure and note the distance from the plumbing fixture that has pipes needing to be fixed to an adjacent wall.

2. Measure and mark the distance from the wall to the fixture on the ceiling below. Place a reference mark on the ceiling.

3. Locate the two joists closest to the reference mark by guiding the stud finder across the ceiling per manufacturer's instruction. Mark the joists, then drill a starter hole between the two joists. Stick the drywall saw into the starter hole and cut a square spanning the space between the studs. Set the panel aside and look into the ceiling cavity to locate the pipes.

4. Measure the perimeter of the access panel. Mark the length of one side on the molding. The molding should be about 1/2-inch shorter than the access hole. Set the miter box to cut a 45-degree angle, lay the molding in the miter box, and cut a strip with a 45-degree angle at each end. Repeat the cutting process for the other three sides.

5. Place the first trim piece along a joist so the long edge extends slightly into the hole; the extension provides a ledge to hold the panel in place. Nail the molding to the joist. Repeat this with the other three pieces to form a square around the access hole.

6. Mark and cut a plywood square to cover the access hole. Apply one coat of ceiling paint and let it dry. Apply a second coat of paint and let it completely dry. Insert the panel.

7. Squeeze a drop of caulk into each nail hole and along the seams where the molding sides meet. Smooth the caulk with your finger before painting it with semi-gloss paint.

Tags: access panel, access hole, 45-degree angle, distance from, other three, reference mark