Trick to accessing Velcro ceiling panels?

[HeadedToTexas]

The holly (?) and padded white vinyl ceiling on our Mariner 37 is both beautiful and functional. Time, physics, and gravity sometimes conspire to loosen the Velcro grip, but accessing the space above those panels when the Velcro has a tight grip requires a tool or technique I don’t have. What is the best way to pry those panels loose without marring the wood or tearing the vinyl?

 

[gsholz]

A set of plastic trim panel removal tools should work.

 

[dhays]

I have the same issue with my overheads. There is one panel that I tend to need to access a lot. What I did was take a length of paracord with a loop on each end. The loops barely hang below the panel. I just grab the loops and pull down firmly until the Velcro releases. Much easier than trying to pry it loose.

 

[DCDC]

We have similar panels with wide industrial velcro which maintains a strong bond. Plastic scrapers work enough to get a few fingers in. When reinstalling a white plastic dead blow hammer works well to reseat the velcro.

 

[HeadedToTexas]

Thanks guys.

 

[twistedtree]

I found plastic putty knives too thick and not strong enough. Instead, a stiff metal blade putty knife with a wrap of blue tape on the blade for protection worked really well.

 

[wkearney99]

A thin, wide drywall taping knife is also handy. They can be had in sizes from 6" to 12" in width. Spreads the lifting force while still being thin enough to slip into most gaps. Some are more flexible than others.

 

[Barrie]

I got a flat kitchen knife and gave the first 3/4 inch a 90 degree bend in my vise. Works great. slips in without damaging anything.