Seinaid

Seinaid are the walls of a building, forming the boundary between interior spaces and the outside environment, and separating rooms inside the structure. They can be external walls that form the building envelope as well as interior partitions that divide spaces. Their design affects structural stability, thermal performance, moisture control, acoustics, and fire resistance.

Materials and construction methods vary by region and purpose. Common external walls include masonry such as brick or concrete blocks, concrete, or stone, often with insulation and cladding. Timber- and steel-framed walls with insulating layers and external or internal finishes are widely used in modern construction. Interior walls are frequently framed with timber or metal studs and finished with plaster, gypsum board, or lightweight panels. Some walls are structural and load-bearing, while others are non-load-bearing partitions that simply separate spaces.

Functions of seinaid encompass enclosure, privacy, and space definition, as well as thermal and moisture management, air control, and fire and acoustic separation. External walls primarily serve as a thermal barrier, protect against weather, and contribute to energy efficiency, while interior walls influence room acoustics and privacy. Fire-rated walls and sound-insulating assemblies are often specified in buildings with particular safety or comfort requirements.

Finishes and insulation play a key role. Surfaces may be plastered, tiled, or clad with plasterboard, wood, brick, or siding. Insulation materials such as mineral wool, glass wool, foam boards, or blown-in insulation reduce heat transfer, and vapor or air barriers help manage moisture movement. Maintenance concerns include cracking, moisture intrusion, mould, or thermal bridging, which may require sealing, re-plastering, or upgrading insulation and finishes.

See also: building envelope, masonry walls, drywall, insulation.