Get the 2025 Guide to Code-Compliant Drywall Panels - Built for Every Province Posted by Best Access Doors Canada on 4th Aug 2025
If you're a contractor bidding on projects across provinces, you understand how frustrating it can be to comply with Canada's varying building codes.
Sourcing access panels that meet the differing provincial fire, acoustic, impact, and accessibility standards can be confusing. A lack of clarity on regional code compliance can often lead to costly rework, frustrating delays, and even inspection failures.
This goes for all types of access solutions, including drywall access panels. But what if you could cut out the confusion and invest in code-compliant access panels upfront?
This guide helps you understand 2025 drywall panel requirements—whether it's Ontario's updated Fire Code or Alberta's Building Code.
Understanding the 2025 Canadian Building Code Landscape
The National Building Code of Canada (NBC) is at the heart of Canada's construction standards. While the 2020 NBC is adopted countrywide, provincial codes build upon it and introduce amendments.
As such, a compliant drywall panel in one province might not meet the requirements of another. Each province adapts the NBC to its unique climate, seismic activity, and local priorities.
This creates the struggle contractors and facility managers face: finding drywall access panels that meet various provincial codes.
The consequences of non-compliance can be steep, from hefty fines and costly repairs to significant project delays and operational downtime.
When it comes to drywall access doors, these codes govern several key performance areas:
- Fire Resistance: Fire-rated access doors are vital for meeting safety standards and containing fire in walls and ceilings.
- Acoustic Performance: This helps control sound transmission for privacy and comfort, especially in commercial and institutional settings.
- Impact Resistance: Sturdy access solutions are necessary to ensure durability in high-traffic areas and reduce maintenance costs.
- Moisture Resistance: To prevent mold and structural damage, contractors need moisture-resistant access panels, particularly in humid environments.
We created a comprehensive guide to code-compliant access panels Canada to make compliance easy for contractors. This free, downloadable guide breaks down everything you need to know to source the right drywall access doors for your projects.
These include:
- Code considerations
- Popular models and sizes that ship fast
- Installation tips to pass inspection the first time
Get your free copy and start planning your next compliant project.
Drywall Access Panels Canada: Province-Specific Codes 2025
Staying informed about provincial code updates is important. Here's a look at some key changes impacting drywall in major Canadian provinces:
Ontario Building Code (OBC) 2024 (Effective January 1, 2025)
Ontario's updated Building Code brings significant changes impacting drywall.
This includes stricter rules for fire protection. Like requiring 5/8" Type X drywall to better block smoke in homes and mixed-use buildings. Ensuring your fire-rated access panel meets the latest standards is vital for maintaining buildings.
The new energy efficiency standards also influence material choices and installation methods for commercial and institutional projects.
For instance, the revised requirements for air leakage rates mean drywall systems and their installation will need to be more airtight.
Alberta Building Code (ABC) (Based on NBC 2023, Effective May 1, 2024)
Alberta's adoption of NBC 2023 means a renewed emphasis on structural integrity and fire safety.
For drywall, this translates to stringent assembly requirements that contribute to building resilience and life safety. It's important to verify the specific version of the ABC in force for your project, as even slight variations can impact compliance.
British Columbia Building Code (BCBC) 2024 (Effective March 10, 2025)
British Columbia's building codes also have unique considerations influencing drywall panel choices.
The important ones are its seismic design provisions and commitment to zero carbon greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
Expect requirements that support adaptable and resilient construction as well as sustainable building.
General Provincial Best Practices
Regardless of the province, always:
- Verify the specific building code version adopted by your province and local municipality.
- Engage with local authorities and building officials early in your project planning.
- Prioritize materials with established third-party certifications (e.g., ULC, Intertek).
Stay ahead of local code updates. Discover access solutions engineered for your province that can help you avoid rework, fines, and costly delays.
Choosing the Right Code-Compliant Drywall Panels
Selecting the right drywall access door goes far beyond choosing a standard gypsum board.
As mentioned, modern building codes demand drywall types for fire protection, acoustic demands, impact and moisture resistance, and sustainability.
Here are our top picks for drywall access doors and panels that offer compliance and durability while maintaining aesthetics:
The BAC-CDPC Concealed Drywall Access Panel for Ceiling
The BAC-CDPC Concealed Drywall Access Panel for Ceiling is made from Type X drywall, which ensures durability. Its moisture-resistant nature makes it suitable for areas such as bathrooms or showers.
This concealed panel seamlessly blends with the ceiling for a flush look and can be painted to match the surrounding material. Another important feature is that it comes with optional gasketing to help meet specific building needs, like air and water tightness.
BAC-TW12 Tapeable Wall Access Panel for 1/2" Drywall Walls
The BAC-TW12 Tapeable Wall Access Panel for 1/2" Drywall Walls is a great option for easy access without compromising aesthetics. Its tapeable edges blend seamlessly with the surrounding 1/2" wall for a near-invisible finish.
The panel is made of lightweight yet sturdy material (MDF) and features a magnetic closure system for tool-free access. This mechanism replaces hinges and latches, allowing you to press it open and snap it shut easily.
At Best Access Doors Canada, we offer an extensive line of drywall access products and custom access solutions to meet your unique project specifications.
Get It Right the First Time
When choosing an access door supplier, pick one who understands the nuances of Canadian building codes and offers expert guidance.
Don't let code compliance challenges slow your projects or jeopardize your facility's integrity. Choose drywall access panels designed for Canada's toughest building standards—and get it right the first time.
For expert advice on code-compliant access panels, contact us at +1-888-327-5471 or request a quote.