how to find studs without stud finder

How to Find a Stud Without a Stud Finder

At that place are many abode projects that require additional tools. It is ordinarily thought that y'all need to take a stud finder in club to discover a stud in your drywall. Simply non all homeowners ain a stud finder, and probably don't need one often enough to justify the purchase. Here are some tips for locating a stud the old-fashioned way. Earlier you go searching for studs without a stud finder, you lot should know some bones information virtually wall construction. Although every house is unique, there are some common similarities amid most walls in homes.

Nearly homes are built with 2x4 or 2x6 studs and studs can exist found typically on the sides of windows or doors. Additionally, most outlets and light switches have a stud location on the correct or left side. Lastly, whatsoever trim in the home (baseboards, crown molding, etc.) is usually nailed to a stud. Now that you accept that base knowledge, let's evidence you some tips on how to find a stud without a stud finder.

How to Observe a Stud without a Stud Finder: Magnets

This method may seem a bit unorthodox but it works! Yous can utilize tape or even dental floss to elevate a fridge magnet across the wall to discover the stud. Look until the magnet sticks to the wall so….you lot have found your stud! Side annotation: The stronger the magnet, the better!

Mensurate from the Corner

Since studs are more often than not 16″ on heart, yous can do calculations by measuring a corner of the room. Keep in mind that all rooms aren't built in numbers divisible by 16″ so there is a great take a chance y'all'll discover a stud that is less than 16″ from ane corner. You tin can attempt the "knock exam" most the corner to see if you can determine where the shorter stud-spacing might accept been added. This is near constructive if you're measuring a corner of the exterior of the firm, which is why it is the least constructive style to detect a stud without a stud finder.

Expect at the Trim
The baseboards in your dwelling are attached to the studs. Check your baseboards to see if you lot can spot where it might have been nailed. These holes (commonly known equally dimples) are normally painted over and filled with caulk. Despite this, you may be able to run across 1 to locate a stud. If yous find one, measure in 16″ increments to locate the additional studs.

Use the Switch
Every bit previously mentioned, at least 1 side of an outlet and calorie-free switch volition be mounted on a stud. Tap the sides of the outlet to locate which side has the stud back up. Measure out about 3/4″ abroad from the outlet on the stud side and use that as a starting betoken to decide the 16″ intervals.

Notwithstanding having trouble finding those studs without a studfinder? Contact your local Mr. Handyman by calling 877-256-3376 or asking service in your surface area. Think, DIY doesn't mean yous have to do information technology all by yourself!

March 08, 2016
By Mr. Handyman

Nov 07, 2018