Light steel framed walls and floors

6.10

6.10.16Construction of non load-bearing walls

Non load-bearing walls shall be suitably constructed.

Acceptable construction includes light steel partitions using studs, and head and base rails, from a minimum section of 43mm x 32mm x 0.45mm, with:

  • 9.5mm plasterboard with studs spaced at a maximum of 450mm, or
  • 12.5mm or thicker plasterboard with studs spaced at a maximum of 600mm.

Noggings or straps should be provided as required to support fittings, such as radiators, wall-mounted boilers, sanitary fittings, kitchen units, etc. Non load-bearing partitions should not be wedged against floor joists, ceiling joists or roof trusses. Allowance should be made for the floor joists, ceiling joists or roof trusses to deflect so that the partition does not become load-bearing. They should be:

  • constructed in accordance with the design
  • correctly positioned, square and plumb
  • supported on a structural floor, but not a floating floor that incorporates a compressible layer, unless specifically designed for that purpose
  • fixed to the floor at the head, to each other and to abutting walls
  • provided with extra studs at openings where required
  • finished in accordance with Chapter 9.2 ‘Wall and ceiling finishes’.