How to Locate a Wall Stud

Locating a wall stud does not have to be rocket science, however this is a very important step people sometimes overlook when trying to hang heavy items on the wall. Finding a wall stud to nail into will insure that what you are hanging will stay there forever.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• eyes
• ears
• pencil
• stud finder
• tape measure
• a nail
• hammer

1. The easiest way to find a wall stud is by using an electronic stud finder that can be obtained from any local hardware store. However, keep in mind that a stud finder can also pick up other metal present in the wall such as electrical wire. With this in mind, let's do this first.

2. The first thing to do is to look for an electrical outlet. Outlets are attached to a wall stud. As you know, the outlet can be placed on either side of the wall stud.

3. With your ear against the wall, using your knuckles, begin to rap on the wall near the outlet. Move away from the outlet rapping on each side. Notice the difference in the sounds. A hollow sound indicates you have NOT found the stud. Keep rapping until you find the side of the stud the outlet is attached to.

4. 

   Now to verify this, use your stud finder. The stud finder will pick up the nails or screws in the stud. Once you have a hit, move the stud finder directly above the area in a straight line up. The stud finder should be picking up on the nails or screws as you move upwards.

5. 

   Verify the sure thing by using a hammer and small finishing nail to lightly drive into the stud. You will be able to tell if you are hitting a wood wall stud by the feel. If you are hitting pure sheetrock the nail will drive in too easily.

6. 

   Use your pencil and mark where the wall stud is. Using your tape measure, measure out 16 inches from your mark. Verify the second wall stub using the stud finder as you did in step 4. Most studs are placed 16 inches apart, however some are placed 24 inches apart.

7. Mark each stud as you find them using either 16 or 24 inch measurements.

[Sush56]

on 10/31/2008 Great details! Thanks.

[georgelarson]

on 10/28/2008 Best to find it instead of guess. Thanks.