The core thickness of a solid wall is 23cm (9 inches), before accounting for any internal plastering or external rendering.
Understanding wall thickness is essential for renovations, insulation projects, and simply knowing the construction type of a building. Based on common construction practices and the provided reference, walls have a standard base thickness which is then supplemented by finishes.
Solid Wall Thickness Explained
According to the reference, the fundamental thickness of a solid wall is 23cm (9"). This measurement typically refers to the structural brickwork or stonework itself.
Measuring Wall Thickness
You can commonly measure wall thickness at openings such as:
- Doors
- Windows
These points allow you to see the full cross-section of the wall construction.
Additional Layers
It's important to note that the total wall thickness can be greater than the base structure. This is because additional layers are often applied for aesthetics, protection, and finishing:
- Internal Plastering: Applied to the inside surface.
- External Rendering: Applied to the outside surface (like stucco or cement render).
These finishes add extra depth to the wall. The reference states the solid wall thickness is 23cm (9") plus these finishes (if any).
Comparing Solid Walls to Cavity Walls
The reference also provides context by mentioning the thickness of a cavity wall. A cavity wall is constructed with two leaves (layers) of masonry separated by a gap (the cavity).
- Solid Wall: 23cm (9") plus finishes
- Cavity Wall: 30cm (11.5") plus finishes
This comparison highlights that solid walls are generally thinner in their structural element compared to cavity walls.
Understanding the base thickness is crucial when planning work like installing new windows or doors, or assessing the thermal performance of a building. The 23cm (9") figure is a key indicator of solid wall construction.
