How to Build a Knee Wall Partition Part 3

In the last section of this series on how to build a knee wall partition, you learned how to place the wall frame into the correct location, level the wall frame, and secure it to an adjoining stud wall and into the floor. Now, in the final installation of this series, you will learn how to add a top cap, add wall board, and how to finish and trim the wall. Let's get started.

Step 1 - Install Drywall

Measure the surface area of the wall partition, and then use the drywall saw or a utility knife to cut the drywall that will cover the knee wall. Then, attach the drywall to the new wall frame with drywall screws or drywall nails. Repeat the process for the other side of the new partition wall.

Step 2 - Install Wooden Top Cap

Place the wooden top cap on top of the knee wall and carefully align it. Then, use finishing nails to secure it to the top of the top plate of the partition. Fill the nail holes with wood putty.

Step 3 - Finish Drywall

If you have created seams in the drywall that is attached to the new partition, you'll need to use drywall putty and tape to cover the seams. When applying the drywall putty, try to smooth out the putty as much as possible. After the putty is completely dry, use sandpaper to further smooth out the surface of the wall.

Step 4 - Paint the Knee Wall Partition

After you have finished the drywall, you can then spread out plastic sheeting or newspaper and paint the finished drywall on the new partition.

Step 5 - Stain or Paint the Molding

While you're waiting for the paint on the new partition to dry, you can measure the floor molding you will use at the base of the knee wall. Once you have measured and cut the molding, go ahead and apply a few coats of stain or the paint color of your choice.

Step 6 - Install Floor Molding on Knee Wall

Once the paint on the partition wall has dried, and the stain or paint on the molding as well, you can then attach the molding to the base of the new wall partition. Carefully align the molding to the base of the wall and use finishing nails every 12 inches or so to secure the molding. Fill the nail holes with wood putty and then touch up the paint or stain.

Step 7 - Finish the Wooden Top Cap

Tape off the base of the wooden top cap with painter's tape. Then, choose the stain or paint of your choice to finish the wooden top cap.

Step 8 - Clean Up

Remove all of the plastic sheeting or newspaper and put away all of the tools.