The thing between two doors is most commonly called a wall. A wall is a vertical structure that divides and encloses space in a building. It is usually made out of materials like brick, concrete, or wood. Walls serve several important functions in a home or building:
Walls Provide Privacy and Separation
One of the main reasons we have walls inside a building is to create separate rooms and provide privacy. Walls allow us to have different spaces that serve different purposes, like bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, etc. Without walls dividing up the interior space, it would just be one big open area. The walls give us the ability to carry out private activities without being seen or heard by others in the home.
Walls Help With Temperature Control
Walls also aid in climate control and insulation. They prevent drafts and help regulate indoor temperatures. Exterior walls protect the interior from cold winds and weather. Well-insulated walls keep warm air in during winter and cool air in during summer. This helps maintain a comfortable environment inside the building.
Walls Offer Structural Support
In addition to privacy and temperature control, walls provide major structural support to a building. They bear the weight of the roof, floors, and ceiling. Interior walls provide stability by bracing the external walls. Load-bearing walls are essential structural components that transfer weight to the foundation. Without adequate walls, the building would collapse.
Walls Allow for Decor and Storage
Walls also provide surfaces for decorating, hanging art and pictures, anchoring furniture, and installing storage and organizational systems. We mount TVs on walls, hang mirrors and paintings on walls, and install shelves and bookcases on walls. Decorating the wall space allows for personalization and functionality.
Types of Interior Walls
There are several types of wall constructions used for interior walls between rooms:
- Stud Walls: These consist of vertical studs (wood or metal) anchored to floor and ceiling tracks. Insulation and wall finishes are attached to the studs.
- Drywall Partitions: These contain metal or wooden studs but are covered with drywall panels rather than plaster.
- Masonry Walls: Concrete block or brick walls provide fire resistance and sound proofing between rooms.
- Plaster Walls: These walls use wooden lath attached to studs covered with multiple coats of plaster for a smooth finish.
Optimal Wall Thickness Between Rooms
When designing a home, architects consider the optimal wall thickness between rooms based on several factors:
- Intended use of the rooms – walls between a bedroom and kitchen can be thinner than between a home theater and bedroom.
- Noise transmission – thicker walls provide more sound insulation.
- Temperature control – thicker walls improve insulation and prevent heat transfer.
- Privacy level – bathrooms require thicker walls than other rooms.
- Construction budget – thicker walls use more materials and cost more to build.
The standard thickness for new interior walls is 4 – 6 inches (10 – 15 cm). Here are some general guidelines on wall thickness between rooms:
| Room Combination | Recommended Minimum Thickness |
|---|---|
| Bedroom to Living Room | 4 inches |
| Kitchen to Dining Room | 4 inches |
| Bedroom to Bathroom | 5 inches |
| Home Theater to Bedroom | 6 inches |
| Bedroom to Bedroom | 5 inches |
Building Codes for Interior Walls
There are building codes that specify minimum requirements for interior walls between dwelling units. These codes ensure fire resistance, noise insulation, and structural integrity. Some key codes include:
- Fire resistance rating – Common walls between units must have 1-hour fire rating.
- Noise transmission – Walls must meet minimum STC (sound transmission class) ratings.
- Wall framing – Studs must be spaced 16 inches on center maximum.
- Wall bracing – Braced wall panels or shear walls must be incorporated.
Developers and builders must obtain permits and have inspections done to ensure compliance with local building codes for interior walls.
Load-Bearing Considerations
If a wall between rooms supports any weight from above, it is deemed a load-bearing wall. Removing or altering it requires special precautions:
- Must have temporary bracing/shoring during work.
- Wall may need a new appropriately sized beam.
- New headers may be needed over door/window openings.
- Expert advice from an engineer is recommended.
Non-load-bearing walls can be removed or changed more easily. But positioning of plumbing and wiring within walls should still be considered.
Conclusion
The vertical structure separating two interior rooms or spaces is called a wall. Walls provide privacy, temperature and noise control, structural stability, storage, and decorating areas. Standard new construction walls are 4-6 inches thick based on room type. Building codes dictate fire resistance and bracing requirements. Load-bearing walls support weight and require modifications if altered. The proper design and construction of interior walls is crucial for a functional, safe, and comfortable home.