For centuries construction buildings have used different versions of access doors. Over time, these products have evolved into white, metal, or plastic doors that we are familiar with nowadays.
The primary reason for the invention of access doors is to gain convenient and safe access into critical areas behind floors, walls, and ceilings, including roofs. They are necessary for every building structure to reach valuable utilities such as electrical and mechanical components like plumbing and HVAC systems during maintenance service adjustments, inspections, and repairs. Today, a wide array of these doors are now available for various purposes, applications.
Construction builders, contractors, and architects use access doors in their building projects because of their functions, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. It is suitable on any surface in the building structure, whether in concrete, gypsum, drywall, or a metal finish surface like stainless steel.
Aside from providing efficient access, here are some unique functions of different types of access doors:
Security
Every essential building component has different levels of security needed depending on the project requirements. Access doors address those requirements, particularly in spaces that require maximum protection like prisons, hospitals, banks, and companies that securely store valuable documents or items.
Often, access doors and panels come from durable quality materials of steel and incorporate lock and security latch to ensure its security features and offer clean aesthetic appeal on the surface. Some others have stainless steel finish. These security access doors and panels ensure the safekeeping of essential items and documents and provide excellent and efficient security for personnel in charge and business owners.
Accessibility
Access doors provide easy entry to those hard-to-reach areas in the building, especially during inspection and maintenance, making them perfect for incorporating them in ceilings, walls, basements, and roofs areas. Architects and construction builders can enhance the accessibility of those spaces by incorporating access doors into the building design.
Space-Saver
Access doors also provide space and insulation, especially for industrial companies. They are explicitly designed for housing and concealing different HVAC units. These access panels offer extra space, safety and only allow authorized personnel to access the system during inspections and repairs. Any unauthorized or accidental access to these components can be hazardous.
Incorporate Efficiency and Functionality
In the construction industry, insulation plays a vital role in every building’s functionality and efficiency but installing additional accessories can reduce room spaces. Nowadays, most access doors incorporate functionality and efficiency in their design, so there is no need to worry about limited spaces.
Provide Aesthetic Appeal
Access doors have a wide array of choices to perfectly blend in exterior or interior surfaces. They provide a pleasing look from their aesthetic finish and design. Some access doors also have hinged designs, and their covers are suitable for painting to blend with the surface seamlessly. Nowadays, access doors have excellent features that will not jeopardize a pleasing look on the surface in exchange for its functionality.
Versatility
In every building design, creating versatility within a space is essential. Often the architect’s design is based on their client’s preferences. It would be best to incorporate access doors during the planning stages. They can easily blend or alter the surrounding surfaces in two ways. A drywall access door integrates seamlessly with the wall surface while creating a functional and versatile space, and a universal access door can serve as additional storage.
Safety
Access doors are excellent in concealing essential components from plumbing, electrical, communication controls, gas line controls, HVAC systems, and more. While it covers perfectly and aesthetically, it also provides safety in the building by limiting any unnecessary, accidental, or unauthorized access to components and mitigating injuries and property damage.
Some local building codes require the installation of access doors and panels. Aside from these requirements, even access doors help achieve LEED certifications. With their multiple functions, they offer many benefits in every structure. Whether a commercial or residential building project, incorporate access doors in your design now and consult a licensed professional for more information.
