Lyla Lindsey
If you're hanging something heavy like a TV or large mirror, you'll need to attach it to a stud. Locating a stud in a plaster wall can be challenging, especially in older homes built before the 1950s, which often feature plaster walls over a lath substrate. Standard stud finders usually don't work with this type of wall due to the uneven density of plaster and lath. However, there are several effective methods to locate studs in plaster walls, many of which don't require purchasing an electronic stud finder. These include knocking on the wall to listen for a solid sound, using a strong magnet to detect nails in the lath, and checking near electrical outlets and baseboards, where studs are often attached. More advanced tools like wire scanning devices and magnetic stud locators can also be used.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Stud finder | Standard stud finders are ineffective on plaster walls due to uneven density. |
| Magnetic stud finders can be used to locate nails in the wall. | |
| Metal lath can interfere with magnetic stud finders. | |
| Knocking | Knocking on the wall and listening for a solid sound can indicate the presence of a stud. |
| Knocking can be done with a knuckle or a hammer. | |
| A faint echo behind each knock may indicate the presence of a stud. | |
| A hollow sound indicates space, while a solid or muffled sound indicates a stud. | |
| Magnet | A strong magnet can be used to detect nails in the lath, indicating the presence of a stud. |
| Neodymium magnets are recommended. | |
| Electrical outlets and light switches | Electrical boxes are typically attached to studs, so locating the nearest one can help find a stud. |
| Electrical outlets and light switches are usually mounted on one side of a stud. | |
| Wire scanning devices | These devices can detect electrical wires that run along or near studs. |
| A metal coat hanger can be used as a low-cost alternative to a wire scanning device. | |
| Baseboards | Baseboards are often nailed to the wall on studs, so finding nail heads or divots in the wood can help locate studs. |
| Metal detectors | Metal detectors can be used to find where slats are nailed into studs. |
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What You'll Learn
Using a stud finder
If you do choose to use a stud finder, it is recommended to use one with a deep scan mode, such as the Zircon MultiScanner® Wall Scanner, which has Metal Scan Mode, or one of Zircon's dedicated metal detectors, like the MetalliScanner® m40 or MetalliScanner® MT 6. These devices can detect the nails or screws that hold the lath to the studs, providing a more reliable way to locate the studs.
To use a stud finder effectively, start by placing the device over the area where you suspect a stud may be located. The device will typically have indicator lights that change colour when a stud is detected. For example, a red light may indicate that the device is directly over a stud, while a green light may signal that no stud has been found.
Additionally, some stud finders come with live AC voltage detection, which can help you avoid electrical wires when drilling into walls. This feature can be especially useful in older homes, where electrical wiring and plumbing may be present.
It is worth mentioning that even with a high-quality stud finder, you may still encounter challenges due to the thickness and density of plaster walls. In such cases, combining the stud finder with other methods, such as knocking on the wall or using a strong magnet, can increase your chances of accurately locating the studs.
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Knocking on the wall
Step 1: Understand Plaster Wall Construction
Before attempting to find studs by knocking, it's helpful to understand how plaster walls are constructed. Typically, plaster walls are built by applying plaster over wood or metal lath strips, which are attached horizontally to vertical studs. The studs are usually spaced 16 or 24 inches apart.
Step 2: Start Knocking
Use your knuckles to gently tap along the wall, listening carefully for changes in sound. A hollow or echoey sound indicates an absence of studs, while a solid or muffled sound suggests the presence of a stud. Pay attention to any faint echoes behind each knock, as these can help identify the location of studs.
Step 3: Horizontal Movement
Move horizontally along the wall, continuing to knock and listen for sound changes. The goal is to identify a pattern where the hollow sounds give way to solid thuds, indicating the presence of studs. Take your time and be patient, as it can be challenging to discern the differences in sound.
Step 4: Verify with a Light Knock
Once you believe you've located a stud, verify your finding by knocking lightly on that area. According to residential remodelling expert Josh Goldenberg, "a knock on top of a studded location will have a much deeper sound." If you hear a solid thunk, you've likely found a stud.
Step 5: Measure and Mark
After confirming the location of one stud, measure 16 or 24 inches from that point to find additional studs. Mark the locations with a pencil or another suitable tool. You can also use a trim nail to double-check by gently hammering it into the marked area. If it goes in only about half an inch, you've likely confirmed the presence of a stud.
Tips and Tricks:
- If your home has baseboards, check for nail heads or divots, as baseboards are often nailed to the wall on the studs.
- Electrical outlets, light switches, and electrical boxes are typically attached to studs, so locating these can provide a reference point for measuring and finding studs.
- Windows usually have a stud on each side, but finding the exact edges can be tricky.
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Using a magnet
To use this method, attach a strong magnet, such as a neodymium magnet, to a string or dental floss. Slowly move the magnet horizontally across the wall. When the magnet sticks, you’ve likely found a nail in the lath, which indicates the presence of a stud.
It's important to note that regular fridge magnets won't work effectively for this purpose. You may also want to try a product like StudPop, which is a powerful magnet that pops into place when a stud fastener is detected.
Additionally, electrical outlets and light switches are typically mounted on one side of a stud. To find a stud near these areas, remove the cover plate and look for which side the stud is on by observing the direction it is fastened. Measure 16 or 24 inches from that point to locate other studs.
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Locating electrical outlets
Stud Finders and Wire Scanners:
Traditional stud finders may struggle with plaster walls due to the uneven density, but some advanced models with live AC voltage detection can help you locate studs while avoiding electrical wires. Alternatively, wire scanning devices can detect electrical wires that run along or near studs. Run the scanner horizontally across the wall, and when it detects a wire, it will typically beep or light up. However, be cautious as these scanners may also detect other metal objects like pipes or old wiring.
Magnet Method:
A simple and affordable method is to use a strong magnet attached to a string or dental floss. Move it horizontally across the wall, and when the magnet sticks, it indicates the presence of a nail in the lath, which is typically fastened to a stud. Electrical outlets are usually mounted on one side of a stud, so removing the cover plate can help you observe the fastened direction and locate the stud.
Tone Tracer:
If you need to find an electrical outlet box behind the plaster wall, a tone tracer is a valuable tool. It allows you to trace the path of a wire. Attach the tone tracer to the wires from another outlet upstream or downstream, and follow the sound, which will get louder as you get closer to the wire and the outlet box.
Manual Techniques:
In some cases, manual techniques like knocking on the wall can be more reliable. Listen for a solid sound, indicating the presence of a stud. Another option is to use a screwdriver as a probe by drilling a small hole and inserting it to locate the outlet. If you have a general idea of where the outlet should be, running your hand across the wall at outlet height may also help you feel a "bump" indicating the outlet's location.
Cutting and Drilling:
If you need to install a new electrical outlet, start by locating the nearest stud. Once found, mark the desired height and length for the outlet. Cut a hole in the plaster, ensuring it's big enough for the electrical box. Feed the electrical wires through the back of the box and secure it to the stud with nails or a hammer. Cut and strip the wires, wrapping them around the appropriately coloured screws on the outlet before screwing the outlet to the box.
Remember, always ensure the power is turned off at the circuit breaker before handling any electrical outlets to prevent the risk of electrocution. Additionally, be cautious when cutting or drilling into plaster walls to avoid damaging the surrounding area.
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Using a wire scanning device
When using a wire scanning device, it is important to slowly move the detector horizontally across the wall. The device will typically make a sound or display a reading when it detects a wire, indicating the potential presence of a stud. Mark the suspected location of the stud with a pencil to ensure accuracy.
It is worth noting that wire scanning devices may not always provide accurate readings, especially in older homes with metal lath or wire mesh support behind the plaster. In such cases, a magnet or metal detector may be more effective in locating studs.
Additionally, consider the thickness of the plaster wall. Plaster walls can be too thick or dense for standard stud finders, and an electronic stud finder with a higher depth detection range may be required. Some advanced models offer additional features such as deep scanning and live wire detection, which can be useful for avoiding wires and pipes during drilling.
By following these steps and choosing the appropriate tools, you can effectively use a wire scanning device to locate studs in plaster walls.
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