Lara Beck
Building a temporary wall is a great way to create a flexible living space without major renovations. It's a low-cost, customisable option that can be completed in a day with basic carpentry skills and careful planning.
Temporary walls are non-load-bearing and do not have electrical wiring, plumbing or insulation. They are typically made from wood studs and drywall, though other materials can be used. They are built on the ground and then secured to the floor and ceiling with plates and screws.
Before you begin, it's important to check local building codes and consider any legal and safety implications. For example, if your temporary wall will create a new bedroom, ensure it complies with local housing codes, which may require a window or other means of egress.
1. Planning: Measure the area where you want to install the wall, including ceiling height, floor level and any obstacles like vents or electrical outlets. Determine the functionality of both resulting spaces, ensuring the wall allows for traffic flow and doesn't block natural light.
2. Choosing your design: Decide on the style of your temporary wall. It can be designed to blend in with existing decor or stand out as a feature wall. Consider whether you want it to be solid or include elements like windows or a doorway.
3. Materials: Choose materials for a sturdy, attractive wall that is easy to install and remove. For the frame, consider using clear pine, which is lightweight and easy to work with. For the wallboard, options include Homasote, lightweight drywall or medium-density fibreboard (MDF).
4. Tools: Gather the necessary tools, including a circular or table saw, drill, screwdriver, and safety equipment such as goggles, gloves and a dust mask.
5. Build the frame: Cut your chosen framing material to size, ensuring it fits snugly between the floor and ceiling. Assemble the frame using screws at the joints. Install furniture levellers at the bottom for easy adjustment and stability.
6. Install the wallboard: Cut your chosen wallboard material to fit within the frame. Attach moulding around the inside of the frame to create a ledge for the wallboard to rest on. Secure the wallboard in place with nails.
7. Finishing touches: Paint or add trim to create a cohesive look.
8. Fastening methods: Use innovative fastening methods to install and remove the wall without damaging existing structures. For example, use pressure-based fasteners or double-stick tape designed for walls.
9. Maintenance and modifications: Regularly check the wall's stability and tighten any loose fasteners. Touch up the paint as needed, especially in high-traffic areas.
10. Removing the wall: Temporary walls are easy to remove. Simply reverse the installation process, being careful to minimise any damage to existing walls and ceilings. Restore the original space by touching up paint or wallpaper and cleaning the area.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Creating an extra bedroom, dividing a room, privacy, hiding clutter, creating additional space, screening off pipes or water heaters, disguising laundry areas, sectioning off areas in finished basements |
| Materials | Wood studs, drywall, Homasote board, clear pine, furniture levelers, screws, double-stick tape, L-brackets, corner braces, foam spacers, concrete slab foundation, pressure-treated wood, 2x4s, faux brick wall panel, pre-hung door, common board, plywood, wall panels, base plates, pocket screws, heavy-duty removable tape, adhesive foam strip, remote control outlet kit, XPS foam board insulation, primed trim boards, paint, felt furniture circles, rigid desk chair mat, tacks, acoustic foam squares, dado set, drill, rotary cutter, cutting mat, ruler, room dividers, modular walls, cardboard, MDF, lumber |
| Cost | $350-$1200 |
| Time | 4-6 hours |
| Complexity | Intermediate |
| Safety Considerations | Avoid electrical equipment, ensure the wall is built on a solid base, do not pressure-mount the wall between the floor and ceiling |
| Legal Considerations | Check local building codes and permits, ensure compliance with egress and ventilation requirements, avoid blocking escape routes or covering smoke detectors |
What You'll Learn
Planning and measuring
Planning:
Before you begin constructing your temporary wall, it's important to have a clear plan and understand the purpose of the wall. Ask yourself the following questions:
- What is the desired height and width of the wall?
- Will the wall require a door or window for ventilation and natural light?
- What materials will you use to build the wall?
- Do you have the necessary tools and safety equipment?
- Have you checked local building codes and permits?
Measuring:
Once you have a plan in place, it's time to start measuring the space where you want to install the wall. Here are some key measurements to consider:
- Ceiling height: Measure the distance from the floor to the ceiling in multiple locations, as it may vary. Use the shortest measurement and add a small allowance (e.g., 1/4 inch) for any adjustments.
- Wall width: Determine the length of the wall by measuring the space you want to divide. Consider the number of panels or sections you need and ensure uniform width for a consistent look.
- Obstacles: Identify any obstacles or fixtures, such as vents, electrical outlets, or furniture, that may impact the placement of the wall.
- Joists: Locate the ceiling and floor joists to ensure the wall is built on a solid base and can be securely fastened.
Additional Considerations:
- Functionality: Ensure the wall placement allows for traffic flow, doesn't block natural light, and considers heating, cooling, and ventilation for both divided spaces.
- Design style: Decide on the aesthetic of your temporary wall. Consider whether you want it to blend with the existing decor or stand out as a feature wall.
- Safety: Be mindful of fire safety and avoid blocking escape routes or covering smoke detectors. Consult a licensed electrician if your wall includes electrical components.
By taking the time to plan and measure carefully, you can ensure a successful temporary bedroom wall project that meets your needs and complies with any necessary regulations.
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Choosing materials
Choosing the right materials for your temporary wall is essential to ensuring it is sturdy, attractive, and easy to install and remove. Here are some factors to consider when selecting your materials:
Type of Wall
First, decide whether you want a lightweight room divider or a more solid temporary wall. If you want something quick, easy, and inexpensive, a room divider might be the best option. These can be made from various materials, such as cardboard, fabric, or wood, and can be easily moved and adjusted.
If you're looking for more privacy and soundproofing, a temporary wall might be a better choice. Temporary walls are typically made from materials like wood studs, drywall, Homasote, medium-density fiberboard (MDF), or clear pine. They provide more stability and can be designed to blend in with existing decor or stand out as a feature wall.
Weight and Stability
When choosing your materials, consider the weight and stability of the wall. Temporary walls should be built on a solid base, such as a concrete slab foundation, to support their weight. If you're using a room divider, ensure it has a stable base that won't tip over easily.
Fire Safety
Fire safety is an important consideration, especially if you're using flammable materials like wood or foam. Choose fire-resistant materials whenever possible, and consider treating fabrics with a flame retardant spray. Avoid blocking escape routes or covering smoke detectors with your temporary wall.
Installation and Removal
Select materials that allow for easy installation and removal. For example, furniture levelers, screws, double-stick tape, and pressure-based fasteners can be used to secure a temporary wall without causing permanent damage to the existing structures.
If you're using drywall, consider leaving it partially unfinished, with no tape or joint compound, to make removal easier.
Cost
The cost of materials can vary significantly, so choose options that fit your budget. Cost-effective materials like Homasote board and clear pine can help keep expenses low without sacrificing quality or appearance. Shopping during sales or using reclaimed wood can also reduce costs.
Design and Functionality
Finally, consider the design and functionality you want for your temporary wall. Do you want it to blend in with the existing decor or stand out as an accent wall? Do you need it to be soundproof or have a door? Choosing the right materials will depend on the specific look and functionality you desire.
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Building the frame
Planning and Materials
Before you begin constructing the frame, it's essential to have a clear plan and gather the necessary materials. Measure the space where you intend to place the wall, considering the ceiling height and floor level. Determine the dimensions of your wall and identify any potential obstacles, such as vents or electrical outlets.
For the frame itself, you'll need materials like clear pine or other lightweight lumber. Clear pine is an excellent choice as it's easy to work with and can be painted or stained to match your existing decor. You'll also need hardware and fasteners, such as furniture levelers, screws, and double-stick tape.
Cutting and Assembly
Once you have your measurements and materials, you can begin cutting your chosen lumber to size. Cut the pieces for the frame, ensuring they fit snugly between the floor and ceiling. If your wall will be L-shaped, cut the pieces accordingly.
After cutting, it's time to assemble the frame. Use drywall screws to join the pieces together at the joints. If your design includes diagonal bars or crossbars, cut and attach them accordingly. Ensure that all connections are secure and sturdy.
Installation and Adjustment
Now, it's time to install the frame in the desired location. If your design includes a base plate, attach it to the floor using strong, removable, double-sided tape or glue. You can also use screws, but be mindful of potential damage to the floor.
With the base in place, carefully tip up and position the wall frame. Use furniture levelers or shims at the top and bottom to create a snug fit without causing damage to the ceiling. Ensure the wall is stable and plumb (perfectly vertical).
Final Adjustments and Finishing
Once the frame is in place, make any necessary adjustments to ensure it is secure and plumb. You can use clamps temporarily to hold it in place while making adjustments. If needed, add additional horizontal or vertical bars for stability, especially if your wall is particularly tall or wide.
Finally, if your design includes a door, now is the time to install it. Follow the manufacturer's instructions or online tutorials for pre-hung door installation. Ensure that the door fits within the frame and operates smoothly.
With the frame in place and any necessary adjustments made, your temporary bedroom wall is now ready for the next steps, such as adding wallboard or drywall.
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Raising the wall
First, dry-fit the wall together. Lay the two 96-inch 2x4s on the floor, parallel and about 93 inches apart. These will be the wall's top and bottom plates. Lay two of the wall studs at the ends. Lay the remaining wall studs between those two end wall studs. Mark five 16-inch on-centre positions for these middle studs. Both the top and bottom plates should receive the same marks.
Next, with a hammer and nails, nail each of the studs between the top and bottom plates. Face-nail through the plates and into each stud at the ends rather than toe-nailing.
Now, it's time to raise the wall into place. With an assistant, tip up and place the wall into position. The bottom plate must be made of pressure-treated wood if you are securing it directly to a concrete floor (with the wood touching concrete). Slide the two top foam spacers into place. Bolt the wall into the ceiling at solid anchor points, such as ceiling joists, with four 5-inch lag bolts fitted with washers.
Finally, screw the bottom wall plate to the floor with 2-1/2-inch screws. Start by drilling pilot holes to prevent cracking the bottom plate or the floor.
The temporary wall will need to be screwed to the floor and ceiling. Do not pressure-mount the wall between the floor and ceiling.
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Finishing touches
Once your temporary wall is in place, you can add some finishing touches to improve its appearance and functionality. Here are some ideas for the finishing touches:
Painting
Paint the wall to match your desired aesthetic or the existing decor. If you used Homasote, you can leave it unpainted for a natural, textured look or paint it to match your colour scheme.
Trim and Baseboards
Adding trim or baseboards can give your temporary wall a more polished and finished look. It can also help to hide any gaps between the wall and the floor.
Doors and Windows
If you want your temporary wall to include a door or window, now is the time to install them. This will help with traffic flow and ventilation in the divided spaces.
Electrical Outlets and Lighting
Consider adding electrical outlets or lighting to your temporary wall, but be sure to consult with a licensed electrician to ensure safe installation and compliance with local building codes.
Storage Solutions
You can add shelves, hooks, or other storage solutions to your temporary wall to increase its functionality and customise it to your needs.
Soundproofing
If soundproofing is a priority, you can add acoustic foam squares or other sound-absorbing materials to your temporary wall.
Curtains
If you want to soften the look of your temporary wall or add some privacy, consider hanging curtains. You can use ceiling-mounted tracks or tension rods to install the curtains.
Remember to review local building codes and safety regulations before finalising your temporary wall. Enjoy your new flexible living space!
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Frequently asked questions
While temporary walls generally don't require permits, it's a good idea to check your local building codes. Some areas may have specific requirements for room divisions, especially regarding egress and ventilation.
The materials you'll need depend on your approach. For a basic wooden frame, you'll need 2x4s, drywall or similar material, screws, and tools like a drill and a saw. For a lightweight room divider, you may use foam board, wooden frames, fabric, and furniture levelers.
You can create a freestanding structure by building a wooden frame and using pressure or tension to hold it in place. Avoid using wood glue, nails, or screws that penetrate the existing structures.
Yes. Ensure your temporary wall doesn't compromise fire safety. Avoid blocking escape routes or covering smoke detectors. Don't install electrical equipment in the wall.
Unscrew and remove the drywall sheets. If you've filled the screw holes, use a magnet to locate them. Unscrew the bottom and top plates from the floor and ceiling. Gently tilt the wall down and disassemble it. Cover any remaining holes with joint compound and paint.
