Expert step-by-step instructions on building a wall, with diagrams, tips for framing with wall studs, and more DIY help

Building an interior wall can be a great way to add privacy and functionality to a space. Whether you want to divide a large room into two smaller ones or create a separate space for storage or other purposes, building a non-bearing “partition” wall can be a relatively simple process. In this article, we’ll outline the basic steps involved in building an interior wall that has 2-by-4 wall studs and is meant to be covered with drywall panels.

Diagram of an interior wall with a door frame.
How an Interior Wall Is Built ©Don Vandervort, HomeTips

Building a nonbearing interior wall requires basic carpentry skills, tools, and materials such as:

  • 2×4 lumber for the framing
  • Drywall or other wall covering material
  • Nails and screws
  • Hammer or drill
  • Level
  • Plumb bob
  • Tape measure
  • Saw

In preparation, you’ll need to first find the location of framing in the ceiling above your new wall’s location. Unless the new wall runs perpendicular to joists (as shown in Step 3 below) or you plan the wall directly beneath a joist, you will have to remove some of the ceiling surface material to install nailing blocks between the framing pieces for secure connection.

As shown in the illustration above, an interior wall has vertical 2-by-4 studs that stand between horizontal 2-by-4 base and top plates (or 2-by-6 framing if the wall will contain plumbing). The framework is usually covered with drywall (see How to Hang Drywall). If this looks like the work will be beyond your skills or if you don’t have the necessary tools, hire a framing contractor or carpenter to do the work.

Browse Tools for This Project on Amazon
Combination Squares
Power Circular Saws
4-Foot Levels
Drywall Tools
Framing Nailers
Pancake Air Compressors

1. Determine the location and size of the wall

Start by determining the wall’s size and location. Establish the new wall’s center line across the ceiling, and then measure and mark 1 3/4 inch over from that line (half of a 2-by-4 top plate’s actual width) in one direction at both ends of your center line. Snap a chalk line between these marks to mark one edge of the top plate’s position.

Next, measure the length of the wall and cut two straight 2-by-4s to that length—one each for the top and bottom plates.

2. Lay out the wall stud locations

Lay the top and bottom plates side by side on the floor and mark them both at once, using a combination square as shown, so stud locations will be identical. Mark for one stud at each end. Then, starting from the end that will meet a wall (if there is one) measure 15 1/4 inches to mark the inside edge of the next stud.  From there, measure and mark every 16 inches to locate the same edge of each additional stud.

 

Man's hand above the top and bottom plates laid side by side, making perpendicular lines using a combination square.
2. Mark wall stud locations on the top and bottom plates, using a combination square.

3. Fasten the top plate to the ceiling

In the illustration below, we show the ceiling drywall removed for clarity—and this shows a ceiling where the wall runs perpendicular to the joists. If your new wall will run parallel to the joists and it doesn’t fall directly below a joist, you’ll need to cut away some of the drywall for access and then install nailing blocks between the joists.

With a helper, hold the top plate in position along the ceiling guideline. Nail through the top plate and the ceiling material and into the ceiling framing with two 3 1/2-inch nails—one at each end. Check its alignment, and then add more nails to securely hold it there (two per perpendicular joist or every 24 inches along a parallel joist).

Man standing on a step ladder, nailing a top plate to a joist.
3.Nail the top plate to ceiling joists at the new wall’s location.

4. Position and secure the bottom plate

Hang a plumb bob from the top plate as shown below to mark the bottom plate’s position directly beneath it on the floor—mark both ends and the approximate middle. Then snap a chalk line on the floor between the end marks. Run the top plate along this line and double check that all the stud marks match up, using the plumb bob. Nail the bottom plate to the floor with 3-inch nails, staggering and spacing them every 16 inches (for masonry or tile floors, you’ll need to use masonry fasteners instead).

A man marking the floor below the line-up point of a hanging plumb bob.
4. Use a plumb bob to mark the bottom plate’s location directly below the top plate.

5. Install the wall studs

Be aware that the distance from the bottom plate to the top plate may vary, especially if your floor isn’t quite level. With this in mind, it pays to measure for wall studs one-by-one as you install them. In other words, measure and cut the first one, and then install it. Then move on to the next one. Align each stud with its marks on the top and bottom plates. Check for “plumb” using a carpenter’s level, and then toenail each stud to both the top and bottom plate with 2 1/2-inch nails, or go the easier route and use brackets like the one shown below.

Stud-framing clips attached to each wall stud.
5. Nail each wall stud to the top plate and bottom plate, using brackets or by toenailing at an angle.

6. Form the connections and corners

Where one wall butts into another, you’ll need to add more wall studs and blocking, as shown here. If the wall will have an outside corner, install two full-length studs with blocks sandwiched in between. The idea here is that every edge of drywall will need backing to support it.

Diagram of an intersecting interior frame including two full-length studs attached in a corner wall.
6. Double up wall studs where walls meet to provide backing for the drywall.

 

NEXT SEE:
• How to Cut Drywall
How to Hang Drywall
Soundproofing Walls & Ceilings
How to Panel a Wall