In framed structures partition walls are built to divide floor area for different utilities. They rest on floors. They do not carry loads from floor and roof. They have to carry only self-weight. Hence normally partition walls are thin. Table 8.4 shows the differences between load bearing walls and partition walls. Depending upon the requirement these walls may be brick partition, clay block partition, glass partition, wood partition, and aluminium and glass partition.
Load Bearing Walls
- They carry loads from roof, floor, self-weight etc.
- They are thick and hence occupy more floor area.
- As the material required is more, the construction cost ismore.
- Stones or bricks are used for the construction.
Partition Walls
- They carry self-weight only.
- These walls are thin and hence occupy less floor area.
- As the material required is less, the construction cost isless.
- Stones are not used for the construction of partition walls.