Building a temporary wall can be a quick and easy way to divide a space or create privacy without a permanent commitment. Temporary walls have many uses, from creating a backdrop for events to partitioning rooms in your home. With some basic materials and tools, you can construct a functional and attractive temporary wall in just a few hours.

Choose a Location

The first step is deciding where to build your temporary wall and measuring the space. Consider the following:

What is the purpose of this wall? Do you need to separate rooms, create a backdrop, or partition a large area?
How much space do you want to enclose? Measure the length and height you need to span.
Does it need to be freestanding or anchored to existing walls? Freestanding walls are easier for portability.
Are there any electrical outlets, vents, or plumbing you need to work around? Make sure your wall won’t block access.

Take measurements and use masking tape to map out the footprint of your wall on the floor. This will help guide you during assembly.

Select Materials

Temporary walls can be made from various materials like wood, plastic, or metal studs with fabric or laminate coverings. Consider how durable, portable, and cost-effective you need your wall to be. Some good options include:

Wooden Frame

2×4 lumber: Use kiln-dried stud-grade lumber for the frame. These are the vertical supports.
1×3 lumber: For horizontal supports like top/bottom plates and headers over openings.
Plywood/OSB: As panels to cover the frame. 1⁄4” to 1⁄2” is best for a light-duty wall.
Drywall: For a smooth finished surface on one or both sides.

PVC Pipe Frame

1 1⁄2” PVC pipes: Use schedule 40 pipes to build the frame. Sturdy but lightweight.
PVC joints: Elbows, tees, crosses, and couplings to connect the pipes.
Curtain fabric/painted backdrop: Wrap around the frame as a covering.

Metal Studs

25 gauge metal studs: Come in adjustable lengths, often with perforated faces.
Metal track: Top and bottom tracks to secure studs.
Drywall: Screws directly into the metal studs for durable finish.

PVC and metal stud walls are very lightweight and portable, while wood has a more custom finished look.

Gather Essential Tools

Having the right tools will make building a temporary wall much easier. For any frame, you’ll need:

Tape measure: For taking measurements. Get one that is 25 feet long.
Level: To check for plumb vertical supports and level horizontal parts. A 4-foot level is most useful.
Stud finder: Helps locate studs/pipes if anchoring into an existing wall.
Marking tools: Pencil, marker to trace lines. Chalk line for longer straight lines.

For a wood frame, you’ll also need:

Circular or miter saw: For cutting lumber to length.
Electric drill/drivers: For drilling holes and driving screws. Have a selection of drill bits on hand.
Hammer: Optional, can be helpful.
Carpenter’s square: Helps make square cuts on lumber.
Safety gear: Gloves, eye protection, ear protection, dust mask.

For PVC or metal studs, you’ll need:

Hacksaw/pipe cutters: For cutting PVC or metal studs.
Electric drill/drivers
Mallet: To gently tap joints into place.

Plan the Frame

Before building, think about the frame design:

How tall should it be? Standard wall height is 8 feet but you can make it taller or shorter.
Will it be free-standing or anchored? Freestanding needs vertical supports every 4-6 feet. Anchored can go up to 8-10 feet between supports.
Are doors or windows needed? Plan openings accordingly and build headers.
How will you access the other side? Plan attachment points to secure covers.

Make a sketch of the wall layout including the size, number of supports, and any openings. This will serve as your reference during assembly.

Build a Wood Frame

Once planning is complete, you’re ready to start construction:

Cut the Lumber

Use your measurements to cut the following:

Studs – 2x4s cut to desired wall height
Top plate & bottom plate – 1x3s cut to span the wall length
Headers – Double 1x3s cut to fit over openings
Sheathing – plywood/OSB cut to cover wall sections

Cut the top plate longer if anchoring to existing walls. Cut all pieces with a circular saw for fast repeatable cuts.

Assemble the Frame

Lay out the bottom plate where you want the wall positioned.
Mark stud locations on the bottom plate spaced 16” to 24” apart.
Attach vertical studs to the bottom plate using 2-3 3” screws at each connection. Check corners for square.
Fasten the top plate to the tops of the studs in the same manner. Measure for level.
Nail or screw in shear blocks on longer walls for lateral strength.
Cut and install headers over any openings, securing with multiple screws.

The basic frame is now complete! Check that it’s solidly squared and level. Now you can move on to attaching coverings.

Add Sheathing/Drywall

Plywood, OSB, or drywall will form the wall surface. Cut panels to size and fasten with screws through the studs. Use adhesive for drywall. Stagger seams between panels and seal with tape. Add corner bead for a finished edge.

Finishing Touches

Here are some optional additions:

Install sill plates under any openings.
Caulk gaps and seams for a cleaner look.
Frame openings and add doors or windows.
Add molding around edges for a polished look.
Prime and paint as desired.

Your temporary wall is ready for use! Disassemble by reversing the steps.

Build a PVC Pipe Frame

PVC offers a very lightweight and customizable temporary wall option:

Design and Cut PVC Sections

Determine the wall size and diagram the pipe framework. Many find it helpful to build in sections for easier transport.

Measure and mark the PVC lengths with a marker. Cut the pipes as needed using sharp PVC cutters.

Connect the PVC Frame

Follow your diagram to assemble the frame. Use elbows, tees, crosses, and couplings to connect the straight pipe lengths.

Work on a level surface and periodically check for square. Slip joints together and tap gently with a mallet if needed.

Use 3-way corners at the top to create an easy attachment point for curtains. Leave openings for any doors or windows.

Add Covering Material

Once the frame is complete, attach your covering material such as fabric or painted backdrop. Use ties, velcro, hooks, or other creative solutions to secure the covering while keeping it removable.

Drape curtains over the top of the frame or wrap fabric around entirely. Trim away excess material for a clean look. Your PVC wall is ready to divide any space!

Build Walls With Metal Studs

Metal stud walls are easy to configure and customize using ready-made steel studs:

Plan the Layout

Determine the size, openings, and supports needed. Space supports at 16”, 24”, or 48” on center depending on the span and height.

Purchase metal studs pre-cut to the desired wall height for faster construction. Pick up metal track pieces for the top and bottom.

Connect Metal Studs

Cut tracks to length with a hacksaw. Secure bottom tracks to the floor using screws or adhesive. Maintain 1⁄4” gaps where walls meet.

Insert studs into top and bottom tracks spaced according to your plans. Cut and install headers over openings.

Use self-tapping screws or tools like a stud crimper to fasten intersecting studs. Check for level and plumb when assembling.

Add Finishing Surfaces

Once the frame is complete, screws can be directly driven into the metal studs to install drywall or other sheathing materials.

Cut panels to fit between studs and vertically stagger the seams between panels. Screw and adhesive provide the best adhesion.

Finish with tape, mud, and primer for smooth seams. The metal stud wall can also remain exposed for an industrial look.

Metal stud walls make dividing spaces quick and customizable. Follow your layout, assemble the frames, and add almost any finishing surface you desire.

Span Larger Distances

Standard wall framing provides enough strength for spans of 6-8 feet. For longer spans or taller heights, consider these tips:

Use 2×6 or 2×8 studs for increased rigidity.
Decrease stud spacing to 16” or 12” on center.
Add vertical support posts halfway across longer spans.
Use thicker 5/8” or 3⁄4” plywood instead of 1⁄2” for sheathing.
Anchor freestanding walls well at the top and bottom with angle brackets.
X-brace or cross-brace walls for better lateral strength.
Hang from ceiling joists or rafters when possible. This removes weight from the wall.

Consult a building professional if you need temporary walls beyond typical standards. They can ensure safety and structural integrity.

Add Doors or Windows

Doors and windows can let you pass through or see through temporary walls:

Use pre-hung interior doors and fasten the jambs to wall studs.
Build an opening and header the same size as the door.
Cut openings for windows whenever needed. Include headers.
Hang curtains over openings in fabric wall systems. Use hooks or velcro to attach them.
Plexiglass panels make see-through “windows” and protect fabric walls. Mount them with screws.
Accordion fold partitions easily create pass-through openings. Draw them closed when privacy is needed.

Keep openings narrower than 4 feet wide so the wall doesn’t lose structural stability. Add closures when privacy or security is desired.

Make it Temporary

Even though temporary walls are meant to be removable, you still want them to be sturdy and well-built while in use. Here are tips:

Use screws instead of nails for easier disassembly later.
Construct walls in sections for easier transport and storage.
Don’t securely anchor freestanding walls to floors or ceilings. Use friction to keep them in place.
Use metal tracks with slots instead of drilling if anchoring required.
Wrap fabric around PVC frames rather than securing on one side.
Use removable adhesive strips instead of permanent construction adhesive.

Build it square, plumb, and level so the wall doesn’t rack or deform over time. Take care disassembling walls to preserve materials for future use.

Safety Tips

When undertaking any construction project, safety should be the top concern:

Use proper lifting techniques when moving materials. Get help moving heavy or awkward items.
Wear eye protection, gloves, dust mask and ear protection when cutting.
Keep work areas tidy to prevent slips or tripping hazards.
Follow manufacturer’s directions when using power tools or chemicals.
Make sure ladders are secure and avoid over-reaching. Have someone steadying it.
Prevent damage by locating and marking wires, pipes, and other utilities in walls.
Ensure overhead areas are clear before lifting long boards into place.

Work safely, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Taking precautions will allow you to build your temporary walls confidently.

Disassemble and Store Properly

Once your temporary wall has served its purpose, carefully dismantle it:

Remove any finishing surfaces like drywall with care to avoid damage.
Salvage any materials you want to save for reuse.
Pull up screws, don’t pound nails. Remove adhesive strips.
Detach any sections to break the wall down into manageable pieces.
Fold up fabric walls neatly and roll up bundles of PVC pipe.
Stack and carry individual boards carefully to prevent cracking or splintering.
Store components flat and evenly supported to prevent warping or bending.
Ensure materials are fully dry if storing for longer periods.

Proper disassembly and storage will greatly extend the lifespan of your temporary wall materials. Handle them with care to use again and again!

Common Uses for Temporary Walls

With some creativity, the possibilities are endless for how a temporary wall can be put to use:

Divide large open concept rooms into separate spaces
Section off a home office or workspace
Create a backdrop for photo shoots
Provide privacy in shared bedrooms
Make temporary room dividers
Set up enclosed tradeshow booths
Build dressing room areas for concerts or theater
Establish private patient areas in hospitals
Define construction zones during renovations
Soundproof areas like band practice spaces
Screen unsightly areas from view
Provides overflow retail space during holidays

So whether you need a little privacy or a lot of creative space, a temporary wall creates opportunities to customize your environment. Build it to suit your unique needs!

FAQs About Building Temporary Walls

What are some good materials for a temporary wall?

Some top material choices are wood frames with plywood sheathing, PVC pipe frames with fabric, and metal studs with drywall. Wood offers a custom finished look, PVC is lightweight, and metal studs are highly configurable.

How tall should I make a temporary wall?

The standard wall height is 8 feet, but temporary walls can be made taller or shorter. Make sure the framework is sturdy enough to support increased heights without becoming unstable. Most home uses look best at standard room height.

Can temporary walls hold heavy items like shelves or TVs?

It depends on the construction – some are only suitable for lighter items or decorative purposes. Wooden frame walls with plywood can accommodate medium to heavy items. Metal stud with drywall can hold very heavy items. Avoid placing extremely heavy objects on fabric walls.

Do I need any special tools to assemble temporary walls?

You can construct most basic temporary walls with common DIY tools like a circular saw, drill, level, stud finder, ladder, and basic safety gear. Specialty tools like crimpers or drywall lifts may help for metal stud and drywall projects.

How are free-standing temporary walls secured?

Free-standing temporary walls rely on their weight and friction to remain in place, so restraint is needed at the top and bottom. Use angle brackets, L-brackets or corner gussets at the top and bottom connections rather than fully anchoring.

What’s the best way to create a doorway in a temporary wall?

Cut an opening in the wall just slightly wider and taller than the door size. Frame the opening with double studs like a header and secure jamb framing just like installing a door in a permanent wall. Pre-hung doors make this very easy.

How can I attach things to the temporary wall without damaging it?

On wood frame walls, use screws driven into studs hidden under the surface material. For fabric walls, use command hooks, binder clips, or Velcro. Be sure whatever you attach can easily be removed later without damage.

What should I use to attach plywood or drywall to the frame?

For plywood or OSB, use standard wood screws staggered 8” apart across studs. For drywall, use drywall screws spaced 8” to 12” apart driven into studs. Also apply construction adhesive between the drywall and framing for extra bonding.

Is one type of temporary wall better for soundproofing?

Mass is your friend when soundproofing. The heavier the materials, the better sound is blocked. Double drywall on metal studs works very well. Solid wood with insulation also helps mute sound. Fabric walls offer little sound insulation.

How can I make my PVC pipe frame wall more stable?

Use larger diameter pipes which resist flexing, place vertical supports closer together every 2’ to 3’, cross-brace the frame, make sure all joints fit snugly, and be sure the base connects firmly to flooring for a rigid foundation.

Conclusion

Building a temporary wall is a versatile and achievable DIY project. With some planning and elbow grease, you can create the perfect structure to divide space, add privacy, construct creative backdrops, and much more. Just determine your needs, gather materials, and follow the step-by-step building plans outlined above. In just a day or two, you’ll have an attractive and functional temporary wall tailored exactly to your space. And when the need arises once again, take it down safely for reuse among your next endeavors. With the right techniques, you can gain flexibility, creativity, and privacy without permanent commitment.

How to Build a Temporary Wall