Locating Wall Studs without the Aid of a Stud Detection Device

If you find yourself in the position of wanting to hang pictures or a new TV and you desire to add some wall decor to create a more unified and finished look in your room, it is important to consider the preparations required before taking up that hammer.

In order to securely hang any heavy items such as substantial pictures, wall-mounted shelves, a mirror, or tech equipment, it is essential to locate a wall stud. A wall stud is a vertical piece of framing within your walls that provides a strong support system. Without a wall stud, your hanging items will not have a sturdy anchor, which can result in them falling and potentially damaging your wall.

Here are some methods to quickly and easily find a wall stud, whether you have a stud finder or not:

1. Identify the closest light switch or power outlet

According to Rachel Rothman, the chief technologist and executive technical director of the Good Housekeeping Institute, the most reliable technique is to locate a light switch or power outlet. Electrical boxes are typically attached to wall studs, so finding the one nearest to the area where you want to hang something will provide a good starting point. From there, measure a distance of 16 inches, as wall studs are usually spaced 16 inches apart according to building codes.

2. Look for dimples in the wall

While this method is less reliable, dimples in the wall can indicate where the drywall is fastened to the edge of a stud. This is particularly noticeable in plaster walls. To try this approach, shine a flashlight parallel to the wall to illuminate any slight dimples.

3. Use windows as a reference

Windows often have a stud on each side, but locating the edges can be challenging. However, as a general guide, you can measure 16 inches from the edge of your window to provide some direction.

4. Tap the wall

To confirm whether you have found a stud without causing any damage, gently knock or tap the area with a hammer. If you hear a hollow or empty sound, move slightly to the left or right. When you hear a dull sound, it indicates that you have hit a stud.

5. Drill a hole

Regardless of the method you use, it is crucial to confirm your findings before proceeding with hanging your item. One way to do this is by drilling a small hole in the wall. If you encounter resistance while drilling, it means that you have hit wood, which confirms the presence of a stud.

6. Utilize a wire hanger

If you are unable to locate the stud even after drilling, there is one more technique you can try. Take a wire hanger and untwist it to create a right angle. Use this newly fashioned tool to explore behind the wall. When the wire makes contact with a firm object, it indicates that you have found a stud.

7. Consider a stud finder app

In today's digital age, there are apps available for almost everything, including finding studs. Many stud finder apps use the built-in magnetometer of your smartphone to locate metal objects within the wall. Although this can be helpful in finding a wall stud, it is important to note that these apps may also detect other objects such as nails or electrical wires, resulting in false positives.

Discovering a Stud: An Alternative Approach

Expedite your search for a stud effortlessly by employing a handheld stud finder device. This innovative gadget, available on Amazon, takes charge of the hunt for you. To successfully utilize this tool, determine the desired location for hanging your item and positioning the stud finder accordingly. Once in place, hold the device flush against the wall, gradually gliding it horizontally in either direction. Depending on the model, you will be alerted to the presence of a stud through flashing lights or beeping sounds.

Brigitt Earley

Wordsmith Extraordinaire

Brigitt Earley, a talented writer, editor, and craft stylist, boasts an impressive professional trajectory spanning nearly 15 years. Specializing in various lifestyle topics such as home improvement, health, parenting, beauty, fashion, culinary arts, hosting, globetrotting, and matrimony, she has contributed to renowned publications like Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more. Discover her extensive portfolio at brigittearley.com.