Latewalling

Latewalling is a term used in construction, particularly in timber frame and masonry construction, to describe the practice of leaving openings in walls partially or fully unfinished for an extended period after the main structural work is complete. This is often done to allow for the installation of subsequent trades and services, such as electrical wiring, plumbing, and HVAC systems, without needing to cut through completed walls. It can also be a deliberate design choice, creating open spaces that are later enclosed. The term "latewalling" implies that the final wall surfaces are applied at a later stage in the construction process than might be typical in some other building methods. This approach can offer advantages in terms of workflow and accessibility for different trades. However, it also necessitates careful planning to ensure that the exposed structural elements are protected from the elements and potential damage during the interim period. The extent to which a wall is "latewalled" can vary significantly, from simply leaving stud bays open for rough-ins to leaving entire exterior wall sections unfinished until the interior fit-out is nearly complete. The concept is primarily related to the sequencing of construction tasks.