Modern timber stud partitions

Timber studding was mentioned earlier in the chapter and in modern construction it is still quite common. A modern timber stud partition comprises a softwood framework covered with plasterboard on both sides. The thicker the plasterboard, the better the sound insulation and fire protection. If timbers of approximately 100 x 50mm are used, the studding can be loadbearing and this can be seen in timber-frame housing. If the partition is not carrying any load, the studding is more likely to be 75 x 50mm. Stud partitions are very adaptable and are often favoured by designers and builders when converting and altering buildings. In new estate construction, they have become less popular as steel framed partitions are considered quicker and cheaper. A typical timber stud partition is shown overleaf.

An occasionally used alternative to plasterboard is to nail sheets of galvanised mesh to the studding and plaster the mesh. A proprietary gypsum plaster should be used that contains a rust inhibitor to prevent staining of the plaster at cut ends in the mesh.