How to Operate a Stud Finder

These vertical columns are examples of studs.

Stud finders will help you identify studs, which are pieces of framing lumber that support the drywall or plaster that covers your wall and creates the wall surface. Identifying stud location is important before hanging a heavy item, such as a shelf, from a wall.

Instructions

1. Familiarize yourself with the indicator on the stud finder. Depending on the model, it may alert you to the presence of a stud through sound, through an incremental LED gauge, or both.

2. Place the stud finder on the appropriate section of wall. Activate the stud finder by holding the power button on the side.

3. Move the stud finder from side-to-side along the wall slowly, until the indicator tells you that you're approaching a stud.

4. Move the stud finder even more slowly back and forth around the general area of the stud. Doing this very slowly will allow you to locate the edges of the stud. Studs are normally about 1 1/2 inches wide.

5. Mark the locations of the edge of the stud with a pencil.

References

• "Home Improvement 1-2-3: Expert Advice from The Home Depot"; Home Depot; 2003