Finding studs in a wall is an important skill for any home improvement project that involves mounting or installing something on a wall. Locating the wood or metal studs allows you to securely attach objects so they don’t fall or cause damage. With some simple tools and techniques, finding studs is easy to do yourself.
What You’ll Need
- Stud finder – This tool detects studs using magnets or radar and marks their location for you. Get an electronic stud finder for the most accurate results.
- Tape measure – Essential for measuring and marking stud locations.
- Pencil – To mark the stud centers for drilling or mounting.
- Drywall screws – Optional, to confirm stud locations by testing screw insertion.
- Ladder – If working on high walls, use a sturdy ladder to reach them safely.
Locating and Marking the Studs
Follow these steps to find and mark the studs:
1. Determine your project area – Decide the exact area of the wall you’ll be working on. Studs are usually 16 inches apart.
2. Scan the wall with the stud finder – Run the finder vertically along the wall over the project area. Mark each point it indicates with a pencil.
3. Confirm with tape measure – Measure 16 inches from each marked point, and scan nearby for a stud. Mark any additional studs found.
4. Test with screws – For verification, use drywall screws to test spots where you anticipate a stud. Stop if your screw hits solid wood.
5. Mark the center – At each stud, measure and mark the center for drilling or fastening objects.
6. Draw level lines – Align a level with each center mark, and draw horizontal lines through all the points.
Tips for Challenging Walls
Some difficult walls make finding studs tricky. Here are some tips:
- Texture – Heavily textured walls interfere with stud finders. Try scanning higher or lower on the wall.
- Lath and plaster – Older walls may not have typical studs. Check for wood strips under the plaster using a strong magnet.
- Irregular spacing – If studs seem randomly spaced, look for markings from previous fixtures or ask the builder.
- Metal studs – Switch to a metal stud finder, or use strong magnets to locate metal framing.
- Property lines – Firebreaks without studs may exist between units. Scan the full width of walls for the next stud.
Safety Precautions
When finding and marking studs, keep these safety tips in mind:
- Use a sturdy ladder to reach high walls safely. Move it frequently as you work across the wall.
- Wear safety goggles when testing screw insertion to avoid eye injuries.
- Verify wiring locations first to avoid drilling into electrical wires and cables.
- Check both sides of walls for piping or hazards before drilling holes.
- Follow all manufacturer’s instructions and safety procedures for your tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the exact center of a stud?
Once you’ve located the edges of a stud with your finder, measure the distance between the edges and divide by 2 to find the exact center point. Mark this for your pilot hole.
What if my stud finder doesn’t detect a stud where I anticipate one?
This can happen with metal studs or heavily insulated walls. Try a stronger stud finder, use magnets to locate metal studs, or gently drill test holes to find the stud edges.
How do I ensure my heavy mirror or TV mount hits studs?
Mark the stud centers first, then measure and mark where your mount needs to attach. Adjust if needed so the mounting holes align with your marked studs.
How many studs should I hit for large or heavy items?
For heavy items, locate and attach to at least two to three studs to disperse the weight. For extra support, also use hollow wall anchors between the studs.
What if I need to find studs in a plaster wall without lath strips?
With solid plaster walls, you’ll need to use an electronic stud finder calibrated for plaster. Take care not to damage the brittle plaster surface.
Conclusion
Locating studs is a necessary first step for many home DIY projects and installations. With some basic tools and knowledge of wall construction, you can easily find the hidden studs in any room. Accurately marking and mapping the stud locations will give you peace of mind that your mounts, anchors, and heavy decorations will stay securely where they should. Just follow safe ladder use, take your time scanning methodically, and don’t be afraid to double check the studs by testing screws. Soon you’ll be able to confidently start and complete many wall mounting projects by yourself.