The basic steps of partition construction are illustrated in Figs. 1 and 2. Each fig shows a front elevation of a length of partition. Each horizontal section is drawn along line l2-l2, with portions broken away to minimize size. Fig. 3 shows an enlarged perspective view of the upper portion of the post members, which forms a corner of the partition. The vertical posts are then fixed with screws, and the entire partition assembly is erected.
Thin decorative partition walls enhance the aesthetic value of the building, increase health-promoting air, and change the lifestyle of the occupants. A good partition wall should offer sufficient privacy, be easy to customize, resist atmospheric effects, and be lightweight to minimize floor space. It should also be sturdy enough to support any decorative surfaces. It should also be fire and damp proof, and have sufficient rigidity to withstand vibrations. Listed below are some of the basic steps of partition construction.
Type-1: This type of partition wall requires a one-brick foundation. A concrete bed is laid to a depth of 30 cm, followed by a brick partition. An additional foundation is built below the floor’s base concrete, usually 30 cm thick. After the foundation, sand filling is required below the base concrete. It is important to note that this type of partition wall is a bit more expensive than other types. A reinforced wall is usually required when additional strength is needed.
Plaster slabs are another popular type of partition wall. These walls are constructed from precast concrete slab units with a thickness between 25 and 40mm. The joints between the units are filled with mortar, and the concrete mix grade used is M15 (1:2:4). The plaster-slab is constructed of burnt gypsum or plaster-of-Paris. Plasterboard is another type of partition wall that is lightweight and economical.
Brick walls are popular and economic options for partition construction. Bricks are also easily recycled and reusable, making them a very environmentally-friendly option for dividing a room. Brick partitions fall into three categories, including plain brick and reinforced brick. Half-brick partitions have a rigidity of about 2m. Reinforced bricks are generally made of steel bars or hoop iron. They are then plastered on both sides.
Sectional partition units are supported by floor clamps. Each unit is supported by a pair of clamp members with vertically adjustable means. Using floor clamps, sectional units can be true horizontally aligned. The lower portion of each unit telescopes within the mop strip. Fig. 8 shows a floor clamp in the vertical cross section. The floor clamps are screwed to the floor, and the wings overlap the raised portions of the mop strips.
Typically, partition walls are non-load bearing, but they can be designed as load-bearing. Low-height partition walls are constructed directly over the floor, with a good sand filling beneath. These non-load-bearing partitions are designed to provide privacy, improved acoustics, and fire separation. They are also flexible in building layout. Some partitions are load-bearing, and these are called internal walls.