What type of wall only supports its own weight?

A non-load-bearing wall is specifically designed to support only its own weight. These walls do not contribute to the structural integrity of the building as a whole and are often used for partitioning spaces within a structure. Since they do not transfer loads from the roof or upper floors to the foundation, they can be constructed with lighter materials. This makes them distinct and flexible in design, allowing for alterations in the building layout without significant structural concerns.

In contrast, a load-bearing wall supports additional weight from above and plays a crucial role in the overall stability of the building. A party wall, which is shared between two adjacent buildings, also bears loads but serves a different function by separating properties. Lastly, a retaining wall is designed to hold back soil and prevent erosion, making its purpose fundamentally different from that of a non-load-bearing wall.