What Timber Should You Use For Building a Stud Wall? 

When building a stud wall, choosing the right timber is essential for creating a stable, long-lasting finish. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about selecting timber for your stud wall from the basic structure to the best timber types and sizes. With the right materials, you'll be able to build a sturdy, professional-looking wall in your home.

What Is a Stud Wall?

A timber-framed stud wall is a wooden framework used to construct internal walls. Stud walls are commonly used to create internal partitions, allowing you to add extra rooms, section off larger spaces, or create an ensuite bathroom. Their structure consists of vertical studs fixed between horizontal ceiling and floor plates, forming a sturdy frame that plasterboard can be attached to. A batten wall is a single-sided stud wall usually built against an existing wall and is primarily used to add more insulation or redecorate a damaged or uneven wall. 

A stud wall is made up of multiple important parts:

• Ceiling Plate: This horizontal piece of timber runs along the ceiling, forming the top of the stud wall. It's securely fixed to the ceiling joists to ensure the wall is stable.
• Floor Plate: Similar to the ceiling plate, this horizontal timber is placed along the floor. It acts as the base of the wall and is fixed to the floor surface, providing a solid foundation for the studs.
• Studs: Vertical timbers, or studs, are evenly spaced between the ceiling and floor plates. They provide the main support for the wall, carrying the load and helping to maintain its structure. 
• Noggins: These are horizontal braces placed between the studs to add rigidity. Noggins help prevent twisting and improve the overall strength of the wall, especially when fixing plasterboard or other wall coverings.

What Is the Best Type of Timber to Use for Stud Walls?

When building a stud wall, the best type of timber to use is carcassing timber, typically made from softwood like pine or spruce. As the timber framework won’t be visible once the project is completed, and stud walls are usually non-load bearing, it’s perfectly fine to use more affordable rough-sawn timber, as long as it’s consistent in size. This makes it both cost-effective and practical for most DIY projects.

One of the most common choices for stud wall timber is CLS (Canadian Lumber Standard) timber. CLS is planed, giving it smooth edges, which makes it easier to handle and work with. It also comes in different strength grades, with C16 and C24 being the most widely used. For non-load-bearing stud walls, C16 is generally suitable as it’s strong enough to support plasterboard and insulation, and more affordable than C24, making it ideal for internal partition walls. While C24 timber is stronger and denser, C16 is more than adequate for most internal stud walls where the timber won’t be exposed or required to support significant weight. 

What Timber Is Best For a Stud Wall With a Door? 

If your stud wall will be supporting a heavy door or carrying weighty decorations, such as tiles in a bathroom, it’s important to use stronger timber. In these cases, opting for C16 or C24 graded timber is recommended. C16 provides good strength for most applications, while C24 offers even greater durability and load-bearing capacity. Choosing a higher-grade timber ensures your wall can support the extra weight without warping or sagging over time, giving you peace of mind that your structure will remain solid and stable. If you’re unsure which option is right for you, speak to our expert team who are happy to advise. 

Should Stud Wall Timber Be Treated? 

For most internal stud walls, you don’t need to use treated timber. However, if you're building a stud wall in areas prone to dampness, such as bathrooms, or constructing a batten wall against a solid wall, it’s worth considering treated timber. Moisture can lead to issues like mould or rot over time, so treated timber provides added protection in these situations. Kiln-dried timber is a good option as it’s more resistant to moisture. While not always essential, using treated timber in damp environments ensures better durability and longevity for your stud wall.

What Sizes of Timber Should You Use for Stud Walls?

The best size of timber for stud walls typically depends on the project, but the most commonly used size for studs is 100mm x 50mm. This size provides enough strength and stability for most internal partition walls as it can support plasterboard and insulation, making it a go-to choice for both DIY projects and professional builders when constructing non-load-bearing stud walls indoors. The length of the timber will vary based on the height of the wall you're building, so it’s important to measure your space accurately. 

Are There Regulations For Building Stud Walls? 

Generally, you don’t need planning permissions for a stud partition wall if it’s not load-bearing. You will need permission, however, if it’s part of an extension, changes the purpose of your building, or is in a listed property. It is always best to check with your local council before building.

There are regulations in regard to the size of timber you should use for stud walls. The NHBC (National House-Building Council UK) specifies that the minimum size specification for timber partition walls is 63 x 38mm for studs and 43 x 38mm for noggins supporting plasterboard. 

Find Top-Quality Timber For Your Stud Wall Project 

Explore our selection of carcassing timber and get started on your new stud wall. If you need any advice about finding the right materials, speak to our helpful, friendly team who are always here to help you. 

As a family-run business, we prioritise quality and customer care, so you know you’re getting the best materials and service. With over 175 years of industry experience, we can help you with all your timber needs. Find your nearest Covers depot now.