Blog>Planning Guides>Installing a partition wall: Planning your project
Last updated: 15 July 2024
Installing a partition wall: Planning your project
Adding a partition wall to your home can completely transform your living space. Read this detailed planning guide to learn everything you need to know before starting your installation project.
Reasons to add a partition wall
A partition wall, also known as a stud wall, splits large indoor areas into smaller spaces.
These versatile walls can be installed in homes, schools, offices and other buildings. There are several types of partition walls available, each offering its own benefits.
With these non-load-bearing walls installed, a large living room can become a smaller communal space and a home office. A partition wall can turn a large bedroom into two.
These walls can also be used to create an en-suite bathroom. Wherever they are positioned, partition walls can help homeowners to maximise their existing space.
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Types of partition walls
Partition walls are available in a variety of designs and sizes. Materials commonly used to make these walls include:
Glass - Glass partition walls are popular for showrooms and open-plan offices
Timber - Timber stud partition walls have a wood stud frame and sheets of plasterboard
Metal - Plasterboard partition walls can also be secured into a steel stud frame, making them lighter, stronger and more stable than those in timber frames
You'll need to choose your partition wall material based on your installation requirements. For example, opt for a glass wall to flood your home with additional natural light.
Alternatively, plasterboard walls with metal or timber stud frames provide privacy and added security.
Partition walls are versatile and can be constructed to match your exact specifications and requirements.
Benefits of a stud wall installation
There are many advantages to adding a partition wall to your home.
Versatile
One of the big reasons why partition stud walls are so popular is their versatility. They make it quick and easy to transform your home and divide up large spaces.
As well as private homes, many commercial buildings use partition walls to make the most of the available space.
No need for planning permission
Planning permission isn't needed when adding a partition wall to your property. So, no need to contact your local planning office or wait for your plans to be approved.
Partition walls do not affect the stability of your home's structure or change the size of your property.
Customisable
Create your perfect space with a partition stud wall. You can choose a unique frame design and decorate the plasterboard to suit your desired aesthetic.
Everything can be customised – from the materials used and frame layout to the size and design of the wall.
Provide extra privacy
A partition stud wall can create private spaces in your home. For example, you can divide a large communal area into smaller private spaces.
Partition walls are also often used to create isolated workspaces in schools and offices.
Improved security and fire protection
Keep your home safe with a fire-rated partition wall. Made from fire-resistant materials, these stud walls can delay the spread of flames and smoke.
Not all partition walls are designed to offer fire protection. Ask a professional for details before selecting your materials.
Additional soundproofing
Soundproof your space with a thick partition wall. Double-glazed glass walls offer effective sound protection.
Multiple plasterboard layers and acoustic insulation can also be used to minimise sound levels.
Cost-effective installation
Compared to other methods of transforming your space, a partition wall installation is highly cost-effective.
Materials can be supplied for relatively low costs and professional installations often come at an affordable price.
Adding more rooms to your home with an extension installation can cost thousands. The average total cost of a timber partition wall installation is around £800 - £900.
How much does it cost to install a partition stud wall?
Several factors influence the total cost of adding a partition wall to your home, including:
Your location – Tradespeople across the UK charge varying hourly rates and labour fees
Materials used – Partition walls with a metal stud frame are often more expensive than timber structures. Glass partition walls are more expensive again
Thickness – The thicker the studs you need, the more money you will need to spend
Size – The partition wall dimensions and size of the plasterboard needed will influence your total fee
Additional work required – Hiring a professional electrician, plumber, plasterer or painter and decorator will boost the total cost of your installation
A timber frame stud wall with two plasterboards costs between£55 and £65 per m2. Partition walls with a metal frame have a similar average cost.
Glass partition walls are the most expensive option with an average total cost of £2,700. Read our partition wall cost guide for the full lowdown of current prices.
Installation checklist
Preparation is key when it comes to the success of all home improvement projects. So, before you start your partition wall installation project, here are the key steps to take:
Choose the best location for your new wall
Accurately measure your available space
Decide on the best wall size and design for your home's layout
Find a reputable tradesperson to install your wall
Pick the best door/skirting boards for your aesthetic (if needed)
Decide on the wall decoration
Hire a professional plasterer and painter and decorator (if needed)
Hiring a professional to fit a partition wall
DIY partition wall installation is an option if you have the necessary skills. Alternatively, hire a professional tradesperson to do all the hard work for you.
You may need a plumber if you plan on adding a wash basin to your wall. You might also need a professional electrician to add any wires and electrical fittings.
Use Checkatrade to find the best local tradespeople for your installation. All of our approved members have passed 12 thorough checks.
We only work with tradespeople who work to our exceptionally high-quality standards.
In fact, we guarantee the work of our tradespeople up to £1,000 to give you peace of mind (T&Cs apply).
Search our directory to find the best partition wall fitters near you. Enter your postcode into the search box to begin browsing reputable local tradespeople.
Alternatively, hear from our members directly by filling out our request a quote form.
See the tradespeople we've checked and recommend for your job
See the tradespeople we've checked and recommend for your job