Before You Buy a Stud Finder

Studs are the upright pieces of wood that form the frame of your house. Most people rarely need to bother with studs, but knowing how to find them is valuable when anchoring oversized picture frames and mirrors, bookcases or other heavy items to the wall.

Variations

• Electronic stud finders: The easiest and most precise way to find a stud in a wall is with an electronic stud finder. These work by measuring the relative density of a portion of a wall. When the stud finder identifies an area of high density, it lights up, indicating a stud.
• Magnetic stud finders: An inexpensive alternative to the electronic stud finder is the magnetic stud finder, which uses magnetism to identify nails or screws embedded in studs. These tools work fairly well in basic situations, but they are best used as a supplement to an electronic stud finder. One trouble with magnetic stud finders is that they also detect pipes and metal conduits, so you’ll need to be diligent about marking the location of actual studs.