Studs are typically 16 inches apart from each other. There are always studs on either side of a window or door, so you can measure 16 inches from the edge to get general guidance on where the next stud is located in the room.
You may wonder: How far apart are the studs in my home? They're always spaced either 16 or 24 inches on center (measured from center to center) along the wall and run between the floor and ceiling. Drywall or lath (for plaster walls) attaches to the edge of the studs.
When a home is framed, the wall studs are usually spaced 16 or 24 inches apart. If you start in a corner and measure out 16 inches and you don't find a stud, you should find one at 24 inches.
Use a Magnet.
Use tape or dental floss with a magnet attached and drag it across the wall to find the stud. This method works because the metal screws used to secure the drywall are typically secured to a stud. Wait until the magnet sticks to the wall and mark the location of the stud—it's that easy.
Drilling into a stud is a necessary skill for any DIY enthusiast or homeowner. Drilling into a stud guarantees a strong and durable attachment, whether you're hanging a large mirror, installing a bookcase, or mounting a television.
Outlets are typically attached to the studs inside walls with nails that tack them into the side of the stud. Therefore, you can pretty much guarantee that there will be a stud located immediately to either side of an outlet.
You've found a stud if you feel resistance and see wood on the bit when you remove it. If you can't find the stud after drilling, untwist a metal hanger and place it into the hole so you can fish around behind the wall.
16” o.c. is the traditional spacing, but 24” o.c. can often be more economical and decrease construction time. The proper solution often depends on the project's structural, financial, and performance goals.
This app will help you to detect studs. It uses the magnetometer to measure the magnetic field when your iPhone is placed near any metal objects. You can quickly detect wood studs hidden under walls, drywall, plasterboard or stucco.
TWC TOOLS:
The TWC includes a set of three tools: a Wall Punch, a Clearing Drill, and a Camera Probe that is an ultra-miniature camera housed in a 2mm stainless steel probe. The TWC tools are designed to bore a 2mm hole through two layers of drywall and make discreet entry into adjacent rooms.
Locate the nearest light switch or power outlet
Then, measure 16 inches from there, since wall studs are typically spaced 16 inches apart by code, she explains. (Some are placed 24 inches apart, so you may have to measure twice.)
Studs in older homes are generally 16 to 24 inches apart. Check which side of your outlet is attached to the stud and measure off the next 16-24 inches to find the next one. You can use any of the above methods to ensure you've found the next stud on your wall.
False readings: False readings can occur when the stud finder detects objects other than studs, such as pipes or electrical wires. Ensure that you're using the correct mode for the material you're scanning.
This marks the location of the first stud. The LEFT side of the board should be flush with the line you just made and cover the X. The 15 1/4 measurement will ensure the CENTER of the stud lands exactly at 16 inches.
Holes should not be drilled directly above, below, or to the side of any electrical switches or outlets. Per the 2018 International Residential Code, electrical wires should be set back no less than 1-1/4 inches from the edge of the framing lumber.
Mounting Plates
Along with these drywall anchors, consider using a mounting plate or cleat made from metal or plywood. Mounting plates are placed behind the TV and screwed into the wall using any of the anchor screws above. The base of your TV wall mount can then be screwed into the mounting plate.
Drilling a pilot hole is a quick and key step for several reasons. Pre-drilling can prevent damage to your wood or other material from splitting or shredding, especially if the fastener is to be placed near an edge.
Most modern outlets are installed with a certain amount of space between the outlet box and the wall surface, so drilling too deep could potentially breach the outlet box itself, causing electrical hazards. Therefore, using a shorter drill bit might be advisable when drilling above an outlet.
According to the NEC, the load should not exceed 1250 watts on a 20 amp circuit. Where can outlets not be installed? Outlets can be placed almost anywhere in a home, with the exception of a bathtub or shower. Outlets are also not allowed to be installed face-up on a countertop.
You absolutely can drill into metal studs without weakening them, and in many cases drilling into metal studs will be required. However, it's important to drill pilot holes first, and be sure to anchor anything to the center of the stud if you are using the stud to bear weight.
“One common rule is to avoid drilling around light switches and sockets, as the electrical wires can go horizontally and vertically around these fixtures,” Williams explains. “You can also get an idea of where wires and pipes run by looking in the attic and basement to see where they go up or down through framing.”
A general rule is to choose a screw length that will penetrate the stud by at least 1/2 inch.
Investing in professional equipment, such as a cable avoidance tool, is the safest option to avoid wires. However, if you don't have access to this, most wiring runs horizontally 6 inches or 12 inches above the receptacle, so avoid these areas. If it is possible, only drill shallow holes.