Are you looking for a way to partition your apartment without making any permanent changes? A temporary wall is a perfect solution. They’re easy to install and can be taken down just as quickly. Plus, they’re a fraction of the cost of a traditional wall.
Few people know that making a temporary wall for an apartment is possible. You might need to use a temporary fence for many reasons; fortunately, building one is not difficult. These are perfect for creating privacy or separating spaces. You can use them to section off a bedroom, create an apartment office or even add extra storage space. With so many options available, there’s sure to be one that fits your needs perfectly.
In this article, we will discuss the benefits of using a temporary wall and how to make one yourself.
What is a Temporary Wall?
Temporary walls are also known as partition walls. A temporary wall is a type of non-carrying wall. It holds, or bears, no weight of any load from above or below; it only supports its weight. Temporary walls are common in construction projects to keep the workers and equipment safe during demolition work and site preparation.
Benefits of Temporary Wall
When remodeling, renovating or building a new apartment, temporary walls are often a good choice. It is because they are flexible and can be used for many purposes. Temporary walls can help you get organized and keep things separate while working on your project. Temporary walls can be used for:
- Creating a separate living space within an existing apartment.
- Establishing an office space in an
- Blocking pipes, wires, or vents from sight
- As construction barriers – To temporarily contain and protect areas during construction or renovation.
- Dividing up the living area into multiple rooms.
- For sound and heat insulation purposes.
- As decoration to complement other walls in your apartment.
- Holding up shelves or other heavy objects.
- To temporarily contain and protect areas during construction or renovation.
Materials that can be used for Temporary Wall
Temporary walls can be made out of a variety of materials. When choosing a material, consider the weight and durability of the material as well as how easy it is to install. Some common materials being used for temporary walls are given below:
- Wood
- Metal
- Plastic
- Paper
- Fabric
- Vinyl
- Drywall
- Plywood
Steps for Constructing a Temporary Wall in Your Apartment
The construction of a temporary wall is relatively simple. The most important thing is to ensure the fence is stable and will not collapse. You’ll need some essential tools, including:
- Tape measure
- Saw
- Drill
- Level
- Screwdriver
- Hammer
You’ll also need some
- Insulation (such as foam sealant or fiberglass batting)
- Drywall
- Paneling
- Construction adhesive
- Nails
- Screws
The following steps will help you in constructing a temporary wall.
1. Putting up the Wall Frame
The first step in building a temporary wall is wall frame assembly, and it covers the following thing:
I. Measuring the Height, Width, and Length of Space
When installing a temporary wall, it’s essential to take accurate measurements to ensure a tight fit.
- First, measure the length of the wall you want to install.
- Next, measure the height of the wall at each end.
- Finally, measure the height of the ceiling at each end.
Write down these measurements on the sheet, as these will help you determine how many panels you need and what size they should be.
Suppose your walls are particularly irregular, or there is a significant difference in height between the floor and ceiling. In that case, you may want to use specially made panels that accommodate these variations. Regular panels can be cut to fit using a saw, but this can be time-consuming and difficult.
II. Application of Sill Sealer to the Floor and Ceiling
Sill sealer, often known as sill gasket, may be purchased at any major hardware store or home improvement center. Sill sealer is available in wide rolls ranging from 5 to 1.5 inches (11 cm). A 5-1/2 inch (11 cm) role would be ideal for this task.
It’s essential to make sure that the sill sealer is applied correctly. This will help create a seal between the floor and the wall, which will help keep out moisture and pests.
Additionally, make sure to cut the two foam strips of 1/4″ (0.64 cm) to the correct length before applying them to the floor so that they can match the length you’ve chosen for your wall.
III. Trim Two 2×4 Boards to Match the Length of Your Wall
You may trim the board by following the given guidelines:
- Mark the precise length measurements on the boards, use a tape measure and a pencil.
- Then, using a circular saw or a hand saw, cut the boards to size. These pieces will be used as the wall’s top and bottom plates.
If you’re not comfortable using power tools, you can have a professional carpenter do the job for you. However, if you’re up for the challenge, read on to learn how to use them.
IV. Cut Two More 2x4s to the Height
It is essential to understand that when working with wood, a certain thickness is expected. In this case, the boards are 2x4s, with an actual thickness of 1-1/2 inches. This means that when measuring for the height of the space, you should subtract 3 inches from that measurement to account for the thickness of the boards. Then, when cutting the boards, you should reduce their length by 3 inches to ensure they fit correctly.
V. Align the Trimmed Boards Together
Nail the 2×4 boards together to form a frame. Please ensure the boards are aligned and flush against each other before nailing them.
First, lay your top and bottom plates over the sill sealer strips. Then, stand up your end studs and fit them between the plates perpendicularly, ensuring that the broad faces are flush with the plates’ ends.
If you’re having difficulty getting your ends studs to fit between the plates, try tapping them in with a rubber mallet. This will help ensure that they are in place and will not move around while you construct the wall.
VI. Fasten Your Frame by Using 16D Framing Nails
To attach the frame to the wall, you will need to toenail or screw in studs at each end of the frame at a 40-45-degree angle so that the tip seats securely in the bottom plate. You may also want to nail the top plate to a ceiling joist for extra stability.
VII. Place More Studs in the Frame
It is essential as it will provide some extra support to the frame. You can add 2-3 more studs in a structure that will protect the frame from collapsing and give extra strength to the wall.
2. Finishing of wall
Once the wall is assembled, you can secure it using anchors drilled into the floor and ceiling. Make sure that any electrical cords or furniture passing through the opening are cleared out before you install the wall – once it’s in place, it can be challenging to move. Final touching in constructing a temporary wall may include:
I. Insulation
You can insulate your building by using fiberglass batts or foam sealing. Handle fiberglass batts very carefully while placing them between the studs. If you deal with them roughly, they will be compressed and unable to perform their function.
II. Hang the dry walls around the frame
Drywall is available in a variety of thicknesses. Most drywall jobs are completed with drywall tape and joint compound to reinforce the areas where the individual panels join together. On the other hand, these final steps will not be required for a temporary wall.
III. Paint your wall according to your taste
Adding 2 to 3 coats of paint or primer to the drywall will help to improve its appearance and protect it from damage. In addition, you may want to consider installing molding or trim around the edge of the wall to give it a more finished look.
Valet Works is your best bet if you’re in the market for a temporary wall for your apartment. We offer an easy, affordable way to create privacy or security in any room, and our walls are made from high-quality materials that will stand up to years of use. Plus, we have a wide selection of paneling and drywall to choose from, so you can find the perfect look for your apartment.