2. 2
Walls versus Partitions
• Walls
– A general term for a vertical building
component used to support loads and divide
up living spaces
– Also a term used exclusively to describe
exterior vertical surfaces
• Partitions
– Interior walls
3. 3
Types of Walls
• Partitions and walls may each be load-
bearing (LB) or non-load-bearing (NLB).
• With these combinations, there are four
possible types of walls and partitions.
22. 22
Conclusions
• Walls are exterior, partitions are interior.
• Each may be load-bearing or non-load-bearing.
• Layout of centerlines and OC studs varies.
Measure to OC Measure to Centerlines
LBW From end of plate From end of plate
NLBW Include width of abutting LBW
and sheathing thickness
Include width of abutting LBW
LBP Include width of abutting NLBW Include width of abutting NLBW
NLBP From end of plate Include width of abutting LBW