Your Top 5 Access Panel Questions Answered
For more than 25 years, BAUCO has been providing access panels designed to meet both performance and design requirements for projects across North America and the Caribbean. Architects often ask us the same questions when choosing access panels.
We’ve gathered the top five questions we hear most often, along with straightforward answers to make your selection process easier.
1. Do you offer custom access panels?
Yes. More than half of the 60,000 access panels that were shipped last year were customized in some way. That includes non-standard sizes, unique shapes, alternate inlays, and specialized hardware. Customization examples include custom sizes, L-shaped, oversized panels, plasterboard inlays, paint-ready finishes, and keyed locks. Whether you need alternate inlays for specialty finishes or different types of latch options we can build it!
2. Is there any extra charge for custom sizing?
No. We offer custom sizing as a part of our core offering. There’s no additional fee for ordering panels in dimensions that differ from our standard sizes. Let us know your precise size requirement to the 1/16th of an inch.
3. What kind of finishes can I use on the panels?
Depending on the access panel you choose, you can finish with materials such as paint, tile, wood, wallpaper, or plaster veneer and other materials. We specialize in maintaining a clean continuous finish. Bring your finish idea or challenge and we will work with you to make it work. Choose our BAUCO paint-ready option for a durable factory primed drywall door leaf to save time and labor on site.
4. Are the access panels lockable?
Yes. Whether you require locking options to conceal sensitive systems or accommodate client requirements for controlled access in public or high-security environments, our access panels can be specified with a keyed lock option. We also offer tamper-resistant Torx-head cam latches and custom prep options to suit specialty hardware or client-specified locking systems. If your project calls for added security or controlled access, we’ll help you find the right solution.
5. What’s the difference between wall and ceiling access panels?
Wall and ceiling access panels share the same purpose—clean, seamless access to building systems. The key difference is in the design and operation. For example, some ceiling panels will require added bracing for rigidity or wall panels may feature different hinge operations (the BAUCO Plus II pivots at the bottom and lifts out for easy access). Correctly specifying wall or ceiling ensures we deliver the right design for your application—always with the same high-quality, virtually invisible finish.
Need help with product selection or project requirements?
Our team supports you with expert design consultation, precision engineered solutions, detailed spec support and seamless project coordination. Partnering factory-direct ensures streamlined communication, reliable short lead times, and the best pricing.
