Wall Sections

Sections are a standard part of a construction drawing set.
A wall section is a drawing, which shows the construction of a partition. The partition may be new, existing, exterior or interior.

The section is interpreted as if a slice has been made through the partition and a portion removed. The inner components are then exposed. The building method and materials are drawn graphically and described with text.

Typically, the section is shown as vertical cut. In some cases, a horizontal slice (plan view) or an angle slice is used if this explains the information more clearly than a vertical cut.

A section is drawn of an existing partition, exterior or interior, to indicate that the construction has changed in some form. For example, it may be that a new opening is cut in it, a new object is attached to it or that the existing wall needs to be furred out. Furring is the application of wood strapping, studs, or metal channels to build out the existing wall. In some case a new partition is required in front of the existing one.

A section is drawn of a new partition, exterior or interior, to show the materials and method that must be used to build it. On some projects several sections of new partitions are required. Not all interior partitions are the same.

Some partitions may be full height, while others are low, others will require sound insulation. A section of an exterior wall with a window is different from one, which has a door. As is an interior partition with glazing and one that is solid.

The type and quantity of sections required in a set of drawings, is based on how much information is required to explain all aspects of the construction. This is also determined by the type and overall size of the project. A large project of a commercial building will require more sections than one of a retail store.

Residential and commercial projects are handled differently. Building codes will dictate the construction material and method.

For residential projects, the construction of a partition for a house
will start with wood framing. The material to be applied to the wood framing is determined by the location. An interior one will be finished with gypsum bd. on one or both sides. An exterior one will require many more materials, such as drywall, insulation, sheathing, brick or stone, etc.

For commercial projects, the construction of an interior partition will begin with metal framing. Fire rated gypsum board will be applied. It may be one layer or two layers, on both sides or on one, from the floor to a specified height or to the underside of the structure above. It is all based on location and building code requirements.

Remodel, renovation or new building project. Wall sections are a part of the construction drawing set.

Section symbols on a plan, such as a partition plan, will indicate where each section is located. See example of wall section and other drawing symbols.

The following is an example of some sections.
They are not intended to provide any specific information and therefore should not be copied. They are not to scale (N.T.S.) as they are reduced to fit on this page.

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