Childproof walls | Features

Specification options for internal non-loadbearing partitions in schools. Suitable for classrooms and circulation
	Capital cost £/m2	Net present value for 60 years £/m2
Lightweight solid concrete block
140mm thick, 1450kg/m2, 7N/mm2; Suitable for plaster finish; 13mm, 2 coat plaster on both sides.	64	131
Fair faced, 140mm thick, 1450kg/m2, 7N/mm2; Good workmanship	47	111
Gypsum fibreboard on 75mm steel studs with 60mm 35kg/m3 insulation
One layer of 12.5mm gypsum fibreboard on each side of the partition joints taped and filled screws stopped; Fine surface finish	77	140
Plasterboard on 70mm steel studs with 50mm 12.9kg/m3 insulation
Two layers of plasterboard on each side of the partition: outer 13mm high density impact-resistant board and 15mm inner sound-absorbing board; joint filler tape, joint finish and filling	94	161
Notes: A discount rate of 3% is used to calculate net present values. Lifecycle costs include capital costs for the internal partitions with emulsion paint finish, component replacement, inspection, cleaning, redecoration and allowance for minor repairs related to risk. Costs are indicative averages. Steel studs at 600mm centres. No allowance for economies of scale. Expected service life for each option is 60 years. Differences in lifecycle cost is related to surface finish and risk of damage to the finish and partition. A cost analysis based on project-specific information is essential for a realistic best value appraisal. For schools, each room and adjacent area should be assessed to determine the partition requirements. SSLD 1 gives discounted cost examples for 30 year concession. BLP provides latent defect warranties for buildings; www.blpinsurance.com