When dividing spaces, not all walls serve the same purpose. If you choose the wrong type, it could mean falling short on safety, privacy, or even cost. Many people are often confused about the differences between demising walls and partition walls, mistakenly believing they are interchangeable. So, how do you know which wall is right for your project? In this article, we’ll discuss the differences between demising walls vs partition walls, covering their definitions, uses, and more.
What is a Demising Wall?
A demising wall divides one tenant’s space from another, or one property from another, within a building. These walls are often found in commercial or multi-tenant structures, such as apartment buildings, shopping malls, warehouses, or office buildings. Their primary purpose is to establish clear boundaries between areas, and they often must meet legal, fire, or soundproofing requirements.
In a mall, for example, a demising wall might separate one store’s space from another. In an apartment building, it separates individual living units, which give each tenant privacy from their neighbors.
Because they define more or less permanent separation between spaces, they are long-lasting and not usually moved or changed.
What is a Partition Wall?
A partition wall, on the other hand, is used to divide spaces within a single unit. They do not divide spaces between tenants, but instead separate spaces within one area or property. They are used to create smaller areas within a larger space, such as separating offices, classrooms, or meeting rooms. As demising walls are more or less permanent, partition walls can generally be changed about more easily, and are the more flexible of the two.
Partition walls do not generally have the same legal, fire, or soundproofing requirements as demising walls, so they are faster to install. They are a low-cost fix for creating interior spaces that can change with the needs of your business.
Within a warehouse, for instance, you might want to create a space for administrative staff to work, and so you may decide to create office partitions within the space. If your layout or workflow changes in the future, these buildings can be disassembled and assembled elsewhere in the warehouse. It’s generally this flexibility that people are after when they choose partition walls.
What’s the Difference Between Demising Walls and Partition Walls?
While both demising walls and partition walls separate spaces, so to speak, the key differences lie in what their purpose is. As we have mentioned already, demising walls have a more permanent nature than partition walls. Demising walls are mostly for separating tenant spaces, whether in apartment buildings, malls, or office buildings. As a result, they have to follow much more regulations (building codes) related to fire safety, soundproofing, and insulation.
In contrast, partition walls are used to divide interior spaces within the same unit. They are much more temporary and adaptable, and can be rearranged as needed. Similarly, they typically don’t have to follow nearly as many building codes as demising walls do. However, this also means that they may not give the same level of privacy or safety.
Cost is another big difference. Since demising walls have more legal/structural requirements, they tend to be pricier. Partition walls, on the other hand, are far more cost-effective, especially since they can be moved around and reused at a later date.
Demising Walls vs Partition Walls: The Bottom Line
If you’re looking to divide tenant spaces, then you most likely need demising walls. But if you’re looking to separate your property into other areas for various purposes, then in all likelihood, you need partition walls. Choosing between the two will never specifically be about cost, but always about what they will be used for.
Still need help figuring out what type of walls you need for your project? Reach out to the experts at Allied Modular today to get a free quote on new dividing systems.
FAQs About Demising Walls and Partition Walls
1. What type of wall is more flexible for office spaces?
Partition walls are much more flexible; they allow office build outs to be reconfigured as needed.
2. Can I convert a partition wall into a demising wall later?
Technically, yes, but it’s not recommended. Converting a partition wall into a demising wall will likely require significant modifications to meet building codes.
3. How does a demising wall impact noise control between tenants?
Demising walls are built to reduce sound transfer between tenants. They use soundproofing materials, like specialized drywall, to block noise and create privacy between the spaces.
