When you need to access specific areas of a structure, access panels available from Elmdor Stoneman are one of the better options on the market. But with such a wide range of access panels available, which one is the best choice for your project? In this post, we'll take a solid look at different types of commonly available access panels produced by Elmdor and provide you with the details you need to decide which one is the right one for your project.
What are the Differences Between Elmdor Access Panel Types?
Elmdor produces a wide range of access panels among the company's various product lines. Their selection of panels provides you with a range of options and features to meet your needs.
DW (Drywall)
The drywall access panel provides a piano hinge for a smooth close, rounded safety edges on the panel to prevent injuries and are crafted from 16 or 14 gauge galvanized steel. Because they're expected to be used in a finished drywall environment, the panel comes with a primed finish, making it easy to paint to match the rest of the project's interior finish. Because the frame is cut from a single piece of metal, there are no unsightly seams to disrupt the smooth finish. The concealed hinge and screwdriver-operated latch keep the panel secure while still allowing for easy access when it's needed. This door works well in both renovations and new construction and can also be installed in areas with masonry, wood, tile and other wall surfaces.
FR (Fire Rated)
When fire safety is an issue, the fire-rated access panel provides a great option. Intended to be installed on a wall, it provides a positive latching system that ensures that the panel will remain closed to prevent fire from passing from one side of the wall system to the other. At the same time, the ring attached to the bolt on the panel's face makes it very easy to access the inside of the panel in an emergency. Like the drywall access panel, the fire-rated panel is available in 16 gauge galvanized steel with a primed finish. The panel may also be opened from the inside using a latch release slide. The panel is rated by Underwriters Laboratories for 1.5 hours as a B label product and meets ANSI-UL 10B standards.
SS (Stainless Steel)
Many of Elmdor's access panels are available in stainless steel varieties, including both of the above options. This can be a great benefit in a number of circumstances. Stainless steel tends to hold up better against corrosion, especially when compared to non-galvanized mild steel options. This allows you to keep a clean appearance in damp areas. It also is naturally anti-microbial, making it a great option for healthcare and food production areas. By keeping these considerations in mind, you'll be able to select the best Elmdor access panel for your project, making sure you can meet the project's needs with an affordable, high-quality product.
If you need help finding the right access panel for your project or need one ordered in that meets additional requirements, such as being insulated, recessed, ceiling fire-rated, or similar features, please feel free to contact the experienced associates at Star Sales for assistance today. At Star Sales, our focus is on helping you keep your project rolling forward smoothly.
