Finding studs isn’t always challenging.

In fact, there are many ways to find studs without a stud finder.

Sometimes, it just takes a stud finder to ensure accuracy and avoid damaging crucial components in the wall.

Moving stud finder on wall

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These gadgets work by detecting metal nails or density changes.

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What Is a Stud Finder?

A stud finder is a handheld tool that’s used to identify a stud’s location inside a wall.

Stud finder on wall

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Here are the mostcommon types of stud finders.

This simple tool uses a powerful magnet to locate the screws in each stud.

Scan-Style Stud Finder:A scan-style stud finder scans the walls to find the edges of a stud.

Stud finder powered on

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This is what most people picture when they think of a stud finder.

These can be highly accurate and even differentiate between studs and other componentsinside the wall.

Phone-compatible stud finders are not related to stud finder apps, which are often inaccurate.

Adding AA battery to stud finder

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ensure the stud finder is calibrated per the manufacturer’s directions.

Step 2: Move the Stud Finder

Slowly move horizontally along the wall.

A light turns on to indicate when the finder has found a stud.

Marking studs on wall with pencil

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A standard stud’s width is 1-1/2 inches.

To get a general idea of where each stud is, tap the wall with your finger.

Step 3: Mark the Stud’s Edges

Mark each edge of the stud with a pencil.

Measuring stud placement on wall

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Keep moving horizontally along the wall until you’ve located all of the studs necessary for your project.

If you have a closer measurement, this could mean you’vefound a pipeor other component.

Do not attempt to hang anything without moving the fastener over until you’ve hit the stud.

Stud finder in toolbox

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There are stud finder apps for your smartphone that are free to download, as well.