Partition Wall
A partition wall is a slender interior wall constructed to divide a building’s space into separate rooms or functional areas. Partition walls can either be load-bearing, supporting part of the building’s structure, or non-load-bearing, which simply divides space without bearing any structural load. Typically, partition walls are non-load-bearing, while load-bearing partitions, often referred to as internal walls, are designed for strength to support the building’s weight.
Unlike external walls, internal partition walls generally don’t require weatherproofing or thermal insulation. However, sound insulation is a critical consideration, especially for partitions between adjoining rooms, where it’s essential to minimize sound transmission. Additionally, all partition walls must provide a durable surface suitable for decoration and able to resist typical impacts from everyday activities.
In buildings with ground floors, partitions are either supported by flooring concrete or beams between the main walls. In multi-story structures, partitions are often supported on concrete beams spanning between columns. The weight of partition walls significantly influences the load on the building’s framework and foundation. Lighter partitions reduce the load, allowing for smaller structural elements, which can lower construction costs. While thinner walls increase the building’s usable floor space, lighter and thinner partitions may pose challenges for sound insulation and fire resistance.
Essential Requirements for a Partition Wall
A partition wall should meet the following key requirements:
- Structural Strength: It must be sturdy enough to support its own weight.
- Impact Resistance: It should be able to withstand typical impacts expected in a building’s daily use.
- Decorative Surface Support: The wall should have a surface suitable for decoration.
- Fixture Support: It must be stable and strong enough to hold lightweight fixtures, such as washbasins or shelves.
- Lightweight: The wall should be as light as possible to minimize load on the building structure.
- Thin Profile: It should be as slim as possible to maximize usable floor space.
- Sound Insulation: It should effectively block sound, especially when separating adjoining rooms.
- Fire Resistance: The wall should provide a barrier to fire, enhancing safety.
Types of Partition Walls
Partition walls can be constructed from various materials, each serving specific purposes and offering unique characteristics. The main types of Partition Walls include:
- Brick Partitions
- Clay Block Partitions
- Concrete Partitions
- Glass Partitions
- Metal Lath Partitions
- Asbestos Sheet or Galvanized Iron (G.I.) Sheet Partitions
- Plaster Slab Partitions
- Wood-Wool Slab Partitions
- Timber Partitions
1. Brick Partitions
Brick partitions are popular in construction due to their affordability and durability. They come in three main types:
a. Plain Brick Partitions
Plain brick partitions are typically half a brick thick, where bricks are laid as stretchers in cement mortar, with staggered vertical joints. Both sides of the wall are plastered for a smooth finish, enhancing its strength and fire resistance.
b. Reinforced Brick Partitions
Reinforced brick partitions offer greater strength than standard brick partitions and are used where additional longitudinal bond or load-bearing capacity is required. These walls are also generally half a brick thick (10 cm). Reinforcement is provided by steel mesh strips known as Exmet, made from thin, expanded steel plates cut and stretched into a diamond pattern. These strips are inserted every third course of bricks. Another reinforcement option, Bricktor, consists of straight tension wires bound together by thinner wires.
c. Brick Nogging Partitions
A brick nogging partition features brickwork (half-brick thick) set within a wooden frame. This timber framework includes (i) a sill at the base, (ii) a head at the top, (iii) vertical supports called studs, and (iv) horizontal supports known as nogging pieces. The studs are spaced at four to six brick lengths apart, while nogging pieces are fixed between studs at intervals of 60 to 90 cm. This framework helps stabilize the partition against lateral forces and vibrations, especially near door openings. Bricks are usually laid flat, but they may also be set on edge if required, and are secured with a 1:3 cement mortar. The timber surfaces in contact with the bricks are coated with coal tar for added protection.
2. Clay Block Partition Walls
Clay block partition walls are constructed using blocks made from clay or terra-cotta, which may be either solid or hollow. Hollow clay blocks are typically preferred for lightweight partitions, as they offer effective insulation against heat and sound while also being fire-resistant. These blocks are generally 30 cm in length, 20 cm in height, and range from 5 to 15 cm in width.
The blocks feature grooves along their top, bottom, and sides, which not only help create rigid joints but also provide a strong grip for plaster application. For stability, the blocks are laid using cement mortar.
3. Concrete Partitions
Concrete partitions are made from concrete slabs, which can be either plain or reinforced, and are supported between vertical members. These slabs can be either precast or cast-in-situ, each offering distinct characteristics:
Cast-in-Situ Concrete Partitions
Cast-in-situ concrete partitions are typically 80 to 100 mm thick and are cast together with the intermediate columns, creating a continuous, rigid structure. This method provides excellent stability in both vertical and horizontal directions but requires more costly formwork due to the on-site casting process.Precast Concrete Partitions
Precast concrete slab units are widely used for partitioning. These slabs are thinner, around 25 to 40 mm, and are attached to precast posts, providing a modular approach as shown in Figure (b). The concrete mix commonly used is M15 (1:2:4 ratio), and the joints between slabs are filled with cement mortar for stability.
- Precast T-Shaped or L-Shaped Concrete Units
Another form of concrete partition is built using precast T-shaped or L-shaped units, which offer a lightweight, hollow partition without needing vertical posts. These units are joined using a 1:3 cement mortar mix, creating a durable yet lighter partition structure.
4. Glass Partitions
Glass partition walls can be constructed using either glass sheets or hollow glass blocks, each offering unique benefits and characteristics:
i. Glass Sheet Partitions
Glass sheet partitions consist of a wooden framework with glass sheets secured within it. This framework includes a series of horizontal and vertical posts that divide the partition into multiple panels. The glass sheets are held in place using timber beadings or putty (a mixture of linseed oil and whiting chalk). As shown in Figure above, these partitions are lightweight, resistant to vermin, soundproof, and damp-proof. However, traditional glass can be fragile and may require frequent replacement. Modern options, such as wired glass, bulletproof glass, and three-ply glass, provide added strength and durability.
ii. Hollow Glass Block Partitions
Hollow glass blocks are translucent, lightweight units available in various sizes, shapes, and thicknesses. Typically, they are square (e.g., 14 x 14 cm or 19 x 19 cm) with a standard thickness of 10 cm. These blocks have jointing edges that are painted internally and sanded externally to create a strong bond with mortar. Their front and back faces may be either decorative or plain, with some blocks featuring fluted designs.
Glass blocks are installed using cement-lime mortar (1:1:4) mixed with fine sand, ensuring all joints are carefully filled. For blocks up to 15 cm in height, reinforcement with expanded metal strips is placed every third or fourth course. If the block height exceeds 25 cm, reinforcement is added to each course. Expansion allowances should be made along the jambs and head of each panel to accommodate structural shifts. Additionally, glass blocks are available in brick-like forms with joggles and end grooves.
Glass block walls offer architectural appeal while allowing light to pass through. They also provide soundproofing, fire resistance, and moderate insulation against heat, making them both functional and aesthetic.
5. Metal Lath Partitions
Metal lath partition walls are constructed by positioning vertical channels, called studs, which are typically 2 to 2.5 cm in width. A metal lath is attached to one side of these studs and is secured with galvanized iron wire, after which plaster is applied to both sides, as illustrated in Figure (a). The channels are spaced at intervals of 15 to 30 cm and are anchored to the floor and ceiling by securing them with driven bolts or screws. These partitions generally have a thickness ranging from 5 to 7.5 cm.
For hollow metal lath partitions, metal lath is attached to both sides of the channels, then plastered to create a hollow effect, as shown in Figure (b). For thicker hollow partitions, built-up channels braced with flat iron strips, as depicted in Figure (c), offer enhanced stability. Metal lath partitions are known for being thin yet strong, durable, and highly resistant to fire, making them an effective choice in building designs where space efficiency and fire resistance are priorities.
6. Asbestos Sheet or G.I. Sheet Partitions
Asbestos or galvanized iron (G.I.) sheets can be attached to a wooden or metal frame to serve as partition walls. These sheets may be fixed on one side of the frame or on both sides, depending on the desired thickness and stability of the partition. Such partitions offer an economical and lightweight solution with reasonable strength.
An improved version of asbestos sheet partitions uses proprietary asbestos-cement slabs for enhanced durability and performance. One common configuration, shown in Figure above, features two flat sheets of asbestos cement (each 10 mm thick) secured to an inner corrugated sheet (5 mm thick). The sheets are joined using cement mortar, which adds to their fire resistance while providing insulation against heat and sound. Galvanized corrugated sheets can also be substituted for asbestos sheets, offering similar benefits with added durability.
7. Plaster Slab Partitions
Plaster slab partitions, commonly known as plaster boards, are manufactured from gypsum or plaster of Paris, often combined with sawdust or other lightweight fibers to reduce overall weight. These slabs are cast in molds, typically measuring between 1 to 2 meters in length, 30 cm in height, and 50 to 100 mm in thickness. For additional thickness, hollow plaster slabs are also produced, offering even better insulation.
These plaster slabs are lightweight and provide effective insulation against heat and sound. They may come with either smooth or textured surfaces. The textured (rough) surfaces act as a key for additional plaster layers, while the smooth surfaces are designed to remain unplastered, maintaining a clean finish.
8. Wood Wool Slab Partitions
Wood wool slabs are constructed from long, interwoven wood fibers coated and bound with cement or plaster. This unique composition creates a rough, open surface that offers an excellent grip for plaster applications. These partitions provide substantial insulation against heat and sound, making them well-suited for various indoor environments.
Lightweight and versatile, wood wool slabs are available under different brand names and typically weigh around 480 kg/m². They are easy to handle, as they can be sawn and nailed as needed. When installing, vertical mortar joints between slabs should be staggered to enhance stability.
However, wood wool slabs are highly sensitive to moisture changes, which can lead to expansion or contraction. Proper restraint is essential to manage this movement, especially around openings, to maintain a crack-free plaster finish.
9. Timber Partitions
Timber partitions consist of a wooden framework supported on the floor and anchored to side walls. The framework, composed of horizontal and vertical members, can be plastered or covered with boards on both sides. While timber partitions are lightweight, they tend to be more expensive and are susceptible to decay and termite damage, making them less durable over time. Additionally, they lack fire resistance, which has led to a decline in their use.
Two main types of timber partitions are commonly used:
1. Trussed or Braced Partitions
- Trussed partitions are used where the partition lacks intermediate support and can only be anchored at the ends. This type is similar to a stud partition but includes diagonal members known as braces, along with steel straps and bolts for added reinforcement.
- In some cases, these partitions may bear additional loads, such as floor weight, beyond their own structure. For added strength, an inter-tie—an additional horizontal member—is placed between the head and sill.
- To distribute the load effectively, the ends of the head and sill rest on stone templates embedded in the wall. Due to the trussed structure, tension may develop at certain joints, necessitating steel straps or bolts for stability and durability.
2. Trussed or Braced Partitions
- Trussed partitions are used where the partition lacks intermediate support and can only be anchored at the ends. This type is similar to a stud partition but includes diagonal members known as braces, along with steel straps and bolts for added reinforcement.
- In some cases, these partitions may bear additional loads, such as floor weight, beyond their own structure. For added strength, an inter-tie—an additional horizontal member—is placed between the head and sill.
- To distribute the load effectively, the ends of the head and sill rest on stone templates embedded in the wall. Due to the trussed structure, tension may develop at certain joints, necessitating steel straps or bolts for stability and durability.
