Your commercial building requires multiple systems to keep it running. While these components are essential, they become unsightly and a safety hazard when left exposed. An effective way to solve these problems is to install doors and access panels to hide them and protect them from unauthorized access.
Before access doors became a necessary addition to buildings, many business owners hid fixtures, valves, and wires in ceilings, behind partitions, and under floors, such as a surface-mount stainless steel access door . One of the challenging systems to hide is the plumbing system.
To offer some ideas on how to hide your plumbing access panels, here are some tips you might consider and other information you may need.
Adapt the finish to the surface
You can select different finishes or coverings when choosing your access doors. You can use a powder or aluminum coating to enhance the overall design of the panel if you have a specific wall. If necessary, paint the access door if this does not affect its functionality. You may also need to paint a warning or warning sign or choose a painting that matches the background.
Install virtually invisible access panels
Another effective way to hide access doors is to purchase units that blend in seamlessly and provide a sleek 1/16" opening after installation. These products also offer a paint-ready door leaf that allows users to apply the desired paint once installed.
Consider adding decoration
Place ornamental items in front of the wall or ceiling access panel to hide the unit. Choose a sturdy, stable part that you or your maintenance personnel can easily remove if necessary.
Covering it with paint is also an excellent idea, as you can use the paint as decoration to hide the access opening. Depending on the size, you can cover it and even use it as an entrance to a secret compartment.
Select a low traffic zone
Install your access panels in an open area with less traffic. Working with your chosen contractors and designers will help you develop an interesting interior for your commercial property. During the construction phase, ask about above-ceiling or below-floor mounting options.
Make an aerial return
The access panel door has a dual function and integrates into the environment thanks to the incorporation of a frameless and louvered air return. Air vent placement has the advantage of being adaptable to various sizes. They sit flush with the drywall and don't protrude too much.
You can integrate the door or access panel into the design as you would an air return. For example, suppose you want a roof hatch for your patio. You can use a skylight that leads to your terrace. It is part of the design, but it also allows natural light to enter the structure, saving money on electricity.
Types of plumbing access doors and panels
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Built-in panel
You can remove or attach a pivot hinge to access panels built into the frame. It is also a corrosion-resistant panel that does not degrade and has a locking mechanism that keeps the parts secure.
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Plastic Access Panel
Manufacturers use plywood as a construction material in many plumbing access panels. However, there are circumstances where it is not suitable. Plastic access panels are essential because they are more expensive than wooden ones. It is expensive due to its effectiveness and high-quality components that prevent fading and corrosion.
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Wooden access panel
For a more conventional approach to hiding plumbing elements, you can use access panels constructed from plywood. Although it doesn't have the resilience of metal or plastic, it's an excellent panel to use if you're going for a rustic or classic look.
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Metal access panel
If plastic or plywood types of access panels bother you, you may need something more durable, like metal. Fortunately, metal access panels are available for purchase. The most excellent feature is that it is fire resistant and has a medium level of protection to prevent unauthorized people from entering.
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Plumbing access door with shutters
Are you thinking about adding a special touch to your ceiling and wall surfaces? Louvered doors and access panels can help with this. You can install it in a variety of ways, making it one of the most adaptable access doors available.
The conclusion
Hiding the plumbing access panel to prevent unauthorized access and protect critical utility components is challenging. However, by working with a competent licensed professional and following these tips, you can get the best advice for your environment and plan the best course of action specifically for your building.
