When is a deflection head required in a stud wall?

[casademont]

I am researching putting a non-load bearing partition stud wall in a loft space (pitched roof construction).

I have read that if I were to specify a gypframe studwall then a deflection head is required (http://www.british-gypsum.com/technical-advice/faqs/020-what-is-a-deflection-head).

However if I use a timber stud construction, is the deflection head still necessary? I've tried to search and there's not much info I can find. Certainly none of the standard "how to build a timber stud wall" guides mention a deflection head.

Thanks!

 

[^woody^]

You might be reading to much. You would just fix the partition top plate to a rafter or noggins between rafters.

 

[tony1851]

The 'deflection head' is one of those things manufacturers dream up and then produce, in the hope that it will eventually become mandatory to fit them into new building work.
If it's a loft conversion, just use conventional timber studwork with plasterboard and skim both sides. Any deflection of the roof under snow load will be very minimal and highly unlikely to cause any problem with the partition.

 

[^woody^]

Remember that deflection relates to finishes and is different to bending. It's difficult to relate deflection to a vertical stud wall.

 

[Notch7]

Ive never heard of a deflection head!

 

[tony1851]

You have now!

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

They're relevant to commercial buildings eg long span offices, not domestic. They allow the floor above to bow or 'deflect' and for the finishes to remain unaffected.

 

[John D v2.0]

Before people get too excited, according to the link above even the manufacturer doesn't say they are needed except "when needing to allow for movement"