How to Build a Stud Wall

Simple step-by-step from Wood Green Timber

Whether you're splitting a room, boxing in pipework, or building an internal partition, a stud wall is a solid, simple structure that most people can tackle with the right timber and a plan.

Here’s how to build a timber stud wall the proper way — using materials you can pick up at Wood Green Timber.

What You’ll Need

From Us:

• 47x75mm or 47x100mm C16 or C24 sawn timber (for studs and plates)

• Plasterboard or specialist boards

• Screws and fixings

• Acoustic insulation or RWA45 (optional)

• DPM or membrane (if needed)

• Angle beads, scrim tape, filler

Tools:

• Tape measure

• Spirit level or laser

• Circular saw / handsaw

• Drill/driver

• Hammer

• Utility knife (for board trimming)

Step 1: Plan and Mark It Out

• Use a tape measure and pencil to mark where your wall will sit

• Mark floor and ceiling plate positions first, then transfer to walls using a square

• Use a laser or plumb line for tall, straight walls

Tip: Double check ceiling heights in case you need to stagger board joints

Step 2: Fix the Floor and Ceiling Plates

• Cut your top and bottom plates to length using 47x75mm or 47x100mm sawn timber

• Fix the bottom plate to the floor using screws and wall plugs (or adhesive on concrete)

• Fix the top plate to ceiling joists or noggins above using long screws

• Check they’re exactly in line with each other

Step 3: Install the Studs

• Measure and cut vertical studs to fit tightly between top and bottom plates

• Fix at 400mm or 600mm centres (to suit standard plasterboard widths)

• Screw or nail through plate into each stud

• Use a spirit level to make sure every stud is straight and upright

400mm centres = stronger + better for heavier boards or tiled walls
600mm centres = quicker + saves on timber

Step 4: Add Noggins

• Cut and fit horizontal noggins between studs — usually halfway up

• These strengthen the wall and help support plasterboard edges

• Also useful for fixing shelves or radiators later

Step 5: Add Insulation (Optional)

• For soundproofing or heat retention, add acoustic mineral wool like RWA45

• Push insulation snugly between studs before boarding

• Avoid compressing it too much — you want full coverage

Step 6: Board It Out

• Fix plasterboard horizontally or vertically using drywall screws

• Use full sheets where possible and stagger joints for strength

• Tape, fill, and skim as needed — or leave ready for your plasterer

Optional Upgrades

• Moisture-resistant boards – for bathrooms or utility rooms

• Fire-rated boards – for areas needing compliance (available to order)

• Plywood sheathing – behind plasterboard if fixing heavy items

• Specialist boards – like Magply (A1 rated fireboard)

Everything You Need, In Stock or To Order

We stock all the key materials you need to build a proper stud wall:

• C16 and C24 sawn timber in various lengths

• Standard and moisture-resistant plasterboard

• Acoustic insulation like RWA45

• Fixings, drywall screws, scrim tape, angle beads

• Fire-rated and specialist boards available to order (2–3 day lead time)

Need help working out your timber and board quantities? Pop into Wood Green or Potters Bar, or give us a ring — we’ll help you build it right, first time.

Wood Green Timber — proper gear, proper advice.