How to Wire a New Stud Wall Part 1

If you would like to construct a new stud wall (as a partition or perhaps to add on a room), you'll need to know how to correctly construct the wall and wire it properly with electrical outlets and/or switches for lights. You should always check with your local building inspector and inquire about safety regulations and building codes.

This series of articles will show you how to construct and wire a non-load bearing interior wall in your home. In this section, you will learn how to plan your wall, frame the stud wall and attach drywall to one side of the wall.

Step 1 - Plan Your Wall

Select a suitable location and choose a reference wall (such as an exterior wall) where you will be attaching your new stud wall edition. Then use the wall square to mark where you will be attaching the new addition. Mark the floor next to the reference wall, as well as the ceiling.

Step 2 - Measure and Cut First Top Plate

Determine how wide you want the wall to be and cut a piece of 2x4 lumber to that length.

Step 3 - Install Top Plate

Have someone help you lift the piece of lumber up to the ceiling and then use a level and chalk line to make sure the wood is perpendicular to the reference wall. Use 3 inch screws to attach the top plate to a joist stud in the ceiling.

Step 4 - Mark for Bottom Plate

Use a plumb line to mark the position for the bottom plate and then use a chalk line to create a straight line for reference.

Step 5 - Measure and Cut Bottom Plate and Second Top Plate

Measure two pieces of 2x4 lumber and cut both pieces the exact same length as the top plate. Clamp the two pieces of lumber together side by side.

Step 6 - Measure and Mark for Studs

Use the measuring tape and mark positions for studs starting at one edge, and then marking every 16 inches on center. At the outer edge of the wall, create marks for two additional studs just before the corner stud. Measure from the bottom of the top plate to the floor and then subtract 3 inches (width of bottom plate and second top plate). This is the measurement you will use to cut your framing studs.

Step 7 - Nail Wall Frame Together

Remove the clamps and nail the second top plate and bottom plate to the framing studs. Nail two nails each through the plates into the top and bottom of each stud. Measure and cut short pieces of lumber and nail them in between and perpendicular to the studs (these pieces are called noggins). Offset the noggins to make nailing them easier.

Step 8 - Stand up Wall Frame

Have someone help you stand up the completed frame and align it with the first top plate that is secured to the ceiling.

Step 9 - Secure Wall to Top Plate

Use screws or nails to secure the second top plate to the first top plate.

Step 10 - Align and Secure Bottom Plate

Align the bottom plate with the chalk line you created earlier. Use screws or nails to attach the bottom plate to the flooring.

Step 11 - Hang Drywall

Cut drywall about 1/2 inch shorter than the height of the wall and then hold the board against the frame while making sure the factory edge is at the bottom. Use a thin wedge of wood to help you lift the drywall up to the ceiling. Then, use drywall screws or nails to affix the drywall to the framed stud wall.