Where is stud in wall

Another option is to use electronic stud finders. As its name would suggest, an electronic stud finder finds studs. Most models can differentiate between wood and metal studs, and they can alert you to the presence of electrical wires.

To use an electronic stud finder, hold it flat against the wall, about a foot to the left of where you ideally want to drill. Slowly slide the stud finder to the right. When it lights up or beeps, retrace the last few inches to ensure you know where the alert occured, then mark that spot with a pencil. This is the left side of your stud. To find the right side, repeat this process, moving the stud finder to the left and marking the point where the finder lights up or beeps.

Light switches or outlets are typically fastened to studs, making them an excellent stud guide. Remove the outlet or light switch cover, peering inside with a flashlight until you spot which edge of the stud is attached to the box.

Another way to check for studs is to employ the knock test. Unroll a tape measure from a corner of your home and mark the wall with a pencil at 12, 16 and 24 inches, then knock the wall at each point. Areas without studs give off a low, hollow sound.

Tapping a stud, however, produces a higher tone and more solid sound. Got a collection of fridge magnets?

Pick the strongest one and use tape or string to dangle it along the wall, allowing it to pull you towards the nail in your stud. No matter which method you use, you should always confirm your findings before proceeding to hang your piece. To do so, drill a hole in the wall. You'll know you've hit wood a stud! If you can't find the stud even after drilling, there's one more technique you can try: Grab a wire hanger and untwist it, fashioning it into a right angle.

Use your new tool to fish around behind the wall, says Rothman. When the wire makes contact with a firm object, that indicates you've found a stud. Today, there's an app for just about everything — and that includes finding studs. Most stud finder apps are magnetic, which means they rely on your smartphone's built-in magnetometer to pinpoint metal objects inside the wall.

While this can help you find a wall stud, it can also turn up a false positive, since the app may detect things other than studs, like nails or electrical wires, says Rothman. The easiest way to find a stud: With a stud finder, a handheld gadget, like this one , that does the hunting for you. To use a stud finder, decide where you want to hang your item, then place the stud finder in the approximate spot the mounting hardware would sit. Hold the tool flat against the wall, slowly sliding it horizontally to the left or right.

Depending on your model, it will flash or beep to alert you to a stud. Product Reviews. Home Ideas. United States. Handyman by calling or request service in your area. Remember, DIY doesn't mean you have to do it all by yourself! March 08, By Mr. By Room. By Area. By Service. Healthcare Facilities Hospitals. Our Promise. How We Work. Preferred Products. Special Offers. See Local Work. Contact National Office. In the News.