Planning to frame and finish a wall

Building a wall is a repeat of a few simple parts: a bottom plate, a top plate and studs between them at a fixed spacing. The work that decides the quality of the finished wall is the layout (square, plumb and straight), the blocking where things will hang, and the drywall finishing.

This planner covers a non-load-bearing partition wall. A load-bearing wall carries the weight of the structure above and needs a plan, a permit and usually an engineer.

Step 1: Lay out the wall

Mark the position of the wall on the floor and the ceiling, and use a plumb line or a laser to transfer it. Check the room is square using the diagonals. Plan the door openings with rough openings a little larger than the door frame.

Step 2: Count the studs and plates

Studs are usually spaced 16 inches on center (24 inches in some places), with extra studs at corners, ends and openings. The bottom plate and two top plates run the full length. Frame the wall on the floor, then tip it up and fix it.

Step 3: Rough-in electrical and plumbing

Wires and pipes go in before the drywall, with boxes at the right heights. Electrical work needs a permit in most places and is best done or checked by a licensed electrician. Add blocking where cabinets, grab bars and shelves will be fixed.

Step 4: Hang the drywall

Drywall is hung with the long edges across the studs and the joints staggered. Count the sheets from the area plus waste, and the screws, tape and compound from the sheet count. Corners and ceilings take more care than flat walls.

Step 5: Finish, light and paint

Joint compound is applied in three thin coats, sanded between. Prime before you paint. Lighting is easier to plan before the ceiling closes, and recessed lights need to be spaced for even light.

Before you start

• Confirm the wall is not load-bearing, or get a plan and an engineer.
• The permit for new walls, electrical and plumbing work.
• A stud finder and a detector for cables and pipes before you fix anything.
• Fire-blocking and sound-insulation requirements if they apply.
• Dust control: plan where the sanding dust goes.

Mistakes that cost people money

• Framing a wall that is not plumb or not straight, which shows through the drywall.
• Forgetting blocking, then having nothing solid to fix to.
• Too much joint compound in one coat, which cracks and takes ages to sand.
• Hanging drywall before the electrical inspection.
• Tipping up a wall that is too tight, damaging the ceiling.

Frequently asked questions