How to Build Drywall and Wood Trim Access Panels

Don't wait for an emergency to gain access to important machinery.

Whether plumbing, electrical or HVAC controls are within a finished wall, access may someday be needed. And if it is when an emergency strikes, access to these controls may need to be immediate, with no time to cut a hole into drywall. By building an access panel, you gain the ability to open and close these area when needed. By using wood trim, you will gain a more finished look.

Things You'll Need

• Drywall saw
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Level or straight edge
• 1 1/4-inch brad nails (your choice)
• Hammer
• Miter box and saw
• Caulk
• Paint
• Paintbrush

Instructions

1. Measure and lay out the opening needed for your access panel, using a measuring tape, level or straight edge, and pencil.

2. Cut on your pencil marks, using a drywall saw.

3. Remove the drywall from any framing within the opening. Try to remove the drywall without damaging. But if it becomes damaged simply cut and replace it with a new piece of drywall with the same dimensions, using a drywall saw.

4. Measure the four sides of your piece of drywall for wood trim. The trim should overhang the drywall piece halfway. If you have 2 1/2-inch casing, overhang it by 1 1/4 inch.

5. Cut the trim with a miter saw, using a 45-degree angle on joining ends.

6. Nail wood trim to the piece of drywall to be used as a access panel, using a hammer and brad nails. Imagine you're putting a picture frame around your piece of drywall. This is what it should look like when complete. Remember to overhang the trim about halfway.

7. Place the finished access panel into the opening in the wall. Caulk it into place and paint with a paintbrush.

Tips & Warnings

• It is usually best to use a hand saw when cutting a wall known to have water or electrical lines.

• Always wear a face mask when cutting drywall.

References

• Handyman How-to: How to Make a Drywall Access Panel