When installing patch panels, we remove only the compromised parent-material and cut the patch panel, to fit the vacancy. It is common, to use the entire patch panel, since that is what was paid for. We have a virtual bone pile of partial patch panels, with small portions removed, to make the necessary repairs. The parent-material is superior in quality, fit & finish, relative to the sister-material (patch panel). Typically, we find the gauge & quality of the steel in the sister-material, is inferior, compared to the original sheet metal.
