Partition Wall Calculator

Plan interior partitions with precise material and cost estimates. Set length, height, openings, and stud spacing quickly. Choose board layers, waste, and see totals.

Materials Costs Openings Boards Exports

Calculator Inputs

Common spacings include 400 mm and 600 mm.
Typical range: 0.25–0.60 hr/m², depending on finish.
Common spacings include 16 in and 24 in.
Converted internally to hr/m² for reporting.
A double top plate is common for partitions.
Choose one side for temporary partitions.
Use two layers for acoustic or fire ratings.
Use 2 for basic kings/jacks, more for wider frames.
Adjust for spacing, perimeter, and field fastening.

Unit Costs

Used when insulation is enabled.
Reset

Example Data Table

Scenario Length Height Spacing Openings Sheathing Studs Sheets
Office partition 4.80 m 2.70 m 400 mm 1 (0.90×2.10 m) 2 sides, 1 layer ≈ 16 pcs ≈ 12 sheets
Warehouse divider 24.00 ft 10.00 ft 16 in 0 1 side, 2 layers ≈ 21 pcs ≈ 20 sheets

Values above are illustrative; your results depend on settings and waste.

Formula Used

  • Gross wall area = Length × Height
  • Openings area = Openings count × (Opening width × Opening height)
  • Net wall area = max(0, Gross wall area − Openings area)
  • Stud count = ⌊Length ÷ Spacing⌋ + 2 + (Openings count × Extra studs)
  • Track runs = Top plates + 1 bottom track
  • Total track length = Track runs × Length
  • Board layers total = Sides sheathed × Layers per side
  • Total board area = Net wall area × Board layers total
  • Sheets = ceil((Total board area ÷ Sheet area) × (1 + Waste%))
  • Screws = ceil(Sheets × Screws per sheet × (1 + Waste%))

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Select your unit system and enter wall length and height.
  2. Enter stud spacing and track piece length for your framing.
  3. Add opening dimensions and the number of openings.
  4. Choose how many sides are sheathed and board layers.
  5. Set a waste factor for offcuts, breakage, and mistakes.
  6. Enable insulation, tape, and compound if needed.
  7. Enter unit costs to generate a total cost estimate.
  8. Press Calculate, then export results as CSV or PDF.

Practical Guide to Estimating Partition Walls

1) Why quantity planning matters

Partition walls look simple, yet estimating errors multiply across a floor. For example, a 12 m by 3 m wall has 36 m² per side, and openings change net area. This calculator converts geometry into boards, studs, track, fasteners, and insulation options so ordering matches installation.

2) Common systems and sheet sizes

Interior partitions typically use light-gauge steel or timber studs with gypsum board finishes. Standard sheets are often 1.2×2.4 m or 4×8 ft, with 12.5–15.9 mm thickness (1/2–5/8 in). Selecting one or two layers per side directly changes sheet and screw quantities.

3) Stud spacing and framing count

Stud spacing drives stiffness and the number of vertical members. Common layouts are 400 mm or 600 mm, and 16 in or 24 in. Closer spacing supports board edges and heavier fixtures, while wider spacing reduces members but often needs thicker board and backing around openings. The estimate uses length ÷ spacing, then adds end studs and extra members for openings to reflect real layout.

4) Tracks, plates, and stock lengths

Top and bottom tracks frame the wall line. Some specifications require extra top plates or a deflection detail, so you can set top-plate quantity. Track runs are multiplied by wall length, then converted into stock pieces such as 3 m, 10 ft, or 12 ft lengths.

5) Layers, acoustics, and ratings

A second board layer increases mass for sound control and can support fire-rated assemblies when paired with the correct details. Mineral wool or fiberglass batts can improve acoustic performance. Because upgrades add material and labor, the cost section shows their impact immediately.

6) Openings and reinforcement

Doors and glazing reduce board area but usually increase framing at jambs and headers. The calculator subtracts opening area while adding extra studs per opening. A waste factor can cover blocking, corner backing, and field adjustments.

7) Waste, handling, and sequencing

Waste includes offcuts, damaged corners, and changes after layout. Many estimators use 5–10% for boards and 2–5% for framing, then adjust for room complexity. Use the waste input to match your delivery plan and site conditions.

8) Turning results into a purchase-ready scope

Strong estimates separate quantities (studs, track length, sheets, screws, insulation) from rates (unit prices, labor hours). Export CSV for takeoffs and procurement, and PDF for approvals. Re-run the calculation when drawings change to keep budget and schedule stable.

FAQs

1. Should I use net or gross wall area for ordering boards?

Use net area for board quantity, then add waste. Gross area is useful for quick planning, but openings remove sheets while still requiring reinforcement around edges.

2. What stud spacing should I choose for partitions?

Use the spacing required by drawings and load needs. 400 mm (16 in) gives better board support and fixture backing; 600 mm (24 in) reduces members but may need thicker boards.

3. How does “sides sheathed” affect the result?

It multiplies board layers. One-sided sheathing is common for service walls; two-sided is typical for room partitions. More sides increase sheets, screws, tape, and compound.

4. Why do openings increase stud counts?

Openings need jamb studs, trimmers, and header support. Even though board area decreases, framing usually increases near doors and windows for stiffness and fastener edges.

5. What waste factor is reasonable?

Many projects start with 5–10% for boards and 2–5% for framing, then adjust for room complexity, delivery handling, and crew experience. Use higher waste for many small segments.

6. Does the calculator include labor productivity?

Yes, if you enter a crew productivity rate and labor cost per hour. The model estimates labor hours from wall area and adds labor cost to your material totals.

7. Are the exported CSV and PDF values rounded?

Exports include the same displayed results, typically rounded for readability. For purchasing, round up to full stock lengths and whole bundles based on your supplier’s packaging.

Build smarter partitions by planning quantities before purchasing today.

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Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.