subject: How To Build A Wall [print this page] Home interior projects can sometimes involve sectioning a room. Most of the time, this is done with a screen, shelves, potted plants or curtains. Sometimes though, a more permanent partition is required, usually in the form of a non-load bearing wall.
As you puzzle through the issue of how to build a wall, you will soon realize that you need some basic carpentry skills, carpentry tools and an assistant this assistant can be anyone your wife your kid or even your mother. Of course, building a partition will also take time. Make sure to remember the most important rule to any builder measure twice so you only have to cut once!
Generally, it is impractical to build the entire wall before raising it into position you will be restricted by the space available. Get around this by assembling the new partition piece by piece so you can put one part of the wall up then the next and so on. Make sure that all connecting surfaces (floor, walls and ceiling) provide a good anchoring location for the new divider.
The frame, or skeleton, of the new partition is composed of horizontal top and bottom parts (plates), between which lumber is positioned vertically to form studs to which drywall or other exterior material is attached. Plates and studs are usually comprised of 2' x 4' planks that are cut to requirements.
Mark where you want to set the bottom, or sole, plate by measuring away from an existing wall. Repeat this for the top plate to be located on the ceiling. Ensure that both measurements are straight by running a plumb bob from the ceiling to the floor.
Measure out the required length for the top and bottom plates and lay them side by side in order to measure out the distance to leave between the studs. Studs are usually spaced about 16 inches apart from one another.
With the help of an assistant, attach the top plate to the ceiling joists. Nail the top plate in place with 3.5" nails. Before nailing in the bottom plate, check your measurements again with a plumb bob. A power hammer may be needed to secure the bottom plate with masonry nails.
Next, measure each stud individually for the required length. To ensure a good fit, add 1/16-inch before sectioning. Tap the studs in place at the measured marks, re-shortening as necessary, before finally securing them with framing clips.
