Building a Lightweight Partition Wall: Costs, Materials, and Construction

October 5, 2026

6 minutes

The number and layout of rooms can be changed quickly and flexibly with a lightweight partition wall. Whether as a room divider or for a walk-in wardrobe – drywall construction offers a wide range of possibilities. Find out here which materials you need, what costs you should expect as of 2026, and when it is worth hiring a professional.

Key Facts at a Glance

Before you start planning your lightweight partition wall, you should know these key facts:

Costs: A professionally built lightweight partition wall in Switzerland usually costs between 70 and 130 CHF per square metre.
Damp rooms: In bathrooms and kitchens, special impregnated plasterboards (usually green) must be used to prevent mould.
Sound insulation: Double-skin constructions with internal insulation offer significantly better sound insulation than single-skin walls.
Structural integrity: Lightweight partition walls hardly affect the building's structural integrity and can be retrofitted on almost any floor covering.
Load-bearing capacity: Special hollow wall anchors are absolutely necessary for hanging shelves or heavy pictures.

Choosing the right materials is crucial for the longevity and functionality of the wall.

Important Drywall Construction Terms

Lightweight partition wall (Drywall)

A non-load-bearing wall constructed without wet building materials such as mortar or concrete.

Stud frame

The basic framework of the wall, usually made of metal profiles (rarely wood), which is screwed to the floor and ceiling.

Cladding

The covering of the stud frame, typically with plasterboard or gypsum fibreboard.

Wall lining

A single-sided wall covering, often placed in front of an existing wall for visual enhancement or to conceal pipes and cables.

Anyone dealing with lightweight partition walls will quickly come across these technical terms:

Lightweight Partition Wall: DIY or Hire a Professional?

DIY (Do It Yourself)

When suitable

If you have manual skills and want to keep the budget low.

Costs & Time

Only the pure material costs apply. However, the time required is significantly higher for laypeople.

Risks & Disadvantages

Mistakes in filling are visible after painting. An untidy construction can massively impair sound insulation.

Who should do it

Experienced DIY enthusiasts who are already familiar with drywall construction.

Drywaller (Professional)

When suitable

For high sound and fire protection requirements, in damp rooms, or if a perfectly smooth wall is desired.

Costs & Time

Higher investment that pays off through fast and flawless execution. A professional usually completes the work in 1 to 2 days.

Risks & Disadvantages

Higher initial costs due to labour wages.

Who should do it

Certified drywallers or plasterers.

Step-by-Step to a New Lightweight Partition Wall

Solid planning and the correct sequence are crucial for a clean result. The following steps show the typical process in drywall construction.

Planning and Material Procurement

Draw the floor plan and calculate the material requirements (profiles, boards, insulation, screws). Check beforehand whether power or water lines need to run inside the wall.

Mounting the Stud Frame

Attach the frame profiles (UW profiles) to the floor and ceiling. Then insert the vertical stud profiles (CW profiles) at the appropriate spacing.

Single-Sided Cladding and Installation

Screw the plasterboards onto one side of the wall. If necessary, lay cables or empty conduits in the cavity of the stud frame.

Inserting Insulation

Fill the gaps completely with suitable insulation material (e.g. mineral wool) to ensure sound insulation.

Closing and Cladding the Wall

Attach the plasterboards to the second side. Ensure that the joints are staggered relative to the boards on the first side.

Filling and Priming

Fill the joints and screw holes neatly. After drying and sanding, the wall is primed before it can be painted or wallpapered.

Safety note: When working in damp rooms or with high fire protection requirements, you should consult a specialist company if in doubt to avoid structural damage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lightweight Partition Walls

Here you will find answers to the most important questions about building drywall partitions.

How much does a lightweight partition wall cost per square metre?

If you hire a drywaller, you should expect costs between 70 and 130 CHF per square metre in Switzerland. When building it yourself, only material costs of around 20 to 40 CHF per square metre apply.

Which boards are suitable for the bathroom?

For damp rooms such as bathrooms or kitchens, impregnated plasterboards (often referred to as green boards or GKBI) must be used. These are water-repellent and prevent mould growth.

Can I hang heavy cupboards on a drywall?

Yes, but you absolutely need special hollow wall anchors for this. For very heavy loads such as wall-hung toilets or large kitchen cabinets, special support stands must be integrated into the stud frame during construction.

How long does it take to build a lightweight partition wall?

An experienced drywaller can often completely erect, insulate, and fill a standard partition wall (approx. 10 to 15 square metres) within one to two days.

Do I need a building permit for a lightweight partition wall?

In Switzerland, installing a non-load-bearing lightweight partition wall inside a building generally does not require a permit. In rental apartments, however, written consent from the property management must be obtained in advance.

Do you have any further questions? A local drywaller will be happy to advise you on your individual project.