The definition of a demountable wall or partition is the following: A non-load-bearing wall made of prefabricated sections that can be readily disassembled and relocated. These partitions may be full height or partial height.
Having been used for decades in Europe, demountable walls have recently become a popular alternative to traditional, gypsum board (drywall) construction in North America. They offer the following advantages:
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They can be removed or moved to accommodate change in function or tenancy
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Their finishes may be changed without typical construction noise, dust or disruption
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Doors or windows may be removed, replaced or added easily
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They accommodate modular electrical systems which allow increase or relocation of electrical service
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They support wall hanging elements with no additional blocking or brackets.
Demountable walls have many forms. The greatest distinction between products is whether they are "unitized” or "stick-built”. Unitized products usually have a frame that determines height and width, limiting adaptation to field conditions, but improving inventory control. Stick-built products include verticals and horizontals that can be used in a variety of combinations. While stick-built systems are usually designed to maximize consistency, the module is totally dependent on the designer and the facility.