What is a partition wall?
A partition wall is a wall inside your home which is not designed to help carry the load of the roof or the storeys above.
What are partition walls for?
Partition walls are generally built to create or separate rooms inside a home, either for privacy or to allow them to be used for different purposes. For example, a space for work or study requires different lighting and furnishings than a space for sleeping or entertaining. Likewise, study areas normally require some peace and quiet. Insulated partition walls can be used to isolate a space in your home to give people a quiet place where they can sit and work comfortably - or where they can make some noise without disturbing others. Partition walls are often used to carry electrical wiring and plumbing. Well insulated partition walls can also help in temperature regulation, soundproofing and fireproofing.
How are partition walls constructed?
Because they can be put just about anywhere, there's far more freedom in construction for non-load bearing or partition walls, and as a result they are often more creatively finished. Partition walls can be constructed to suit their environment - using waterproof cladding such as ceramic tiles for bathrooms is one example of this. A simple timber frame with a metal lath and plasterboard finish is the most popular method for interior wall construction in Australia. The frame is usually assembled offsite, and then erected and joined to the rest of the house frame. When planning to build or renovate, always consult your builder about local building regulations to make sure your plans are feasible.
