walling

Walling refers to the construction or erection of walls as part of building projects. In architecture and construction, walling covers the creation of load-bearing and non-load-bearing walls that define spaces, support floors and roofs, and provide enclosure. Walling can involve various methods depending on materials and design, including masonry walling with bricks or concrete blocks, stonework, timber framing with stud walls, and the use of prefabricated panels or tilt-up concrete. Typical stages include site preparation, foundation or footing alignment, laying masonry courses or assembling framing, installation of insulation and vapor barriers, application of exterior cladding, and interior finishing.

For masonry walling, joints, mortar selection, and workmanship determine strength, durability, and weather resistance. Timber-framed and drywall interior walls rely on structural framing, with wall finishes such as plaster, plasterboard, or paneling. Fire protection, thermal performance, and sound attenuation influence material choice and detailing; builders follow local building codes and standards for setbacks, seismic ties, moisture control, and ventilation.

In civil engineering, walling may also refer to the erection of retaining walls, which resist soil and water pressures. Materials include reinforced concrete, stone, brick, or gabions, often with drainage provisions and proper backfill compaction.

Etymology derives from the word wall, with 'walling' used to describe the process of constructing or installing walls in a project. The term also appears in restoration or conservation contexts to describe stabilizing or recreating wall structures in historic sites.