Framing calculator
Work out the studs, top and bottom plates, and rough opening framing a wall needs, from its length and height.
Framing calculator
Work out the studs, top and bottom plates, and rough opening framing a wall needs, from its length and height.
Enter the wall length, height and stud spacing to see the framing estimate.
Studs needed
Project summary
How it works
This is a material planning estimate, not structural design. Header size, load path and framing requirements around openings depend on span tables and local code, so check both before building.
Framing calculator
What this counts and what it does not
This calculator lays out studs at a regular on-center spacing along the wall, adds two runs of top plate and one run of bottom plate, and adds extra studs for every rough opening you enter, using the common convention of two jack studs plus two king studs per opening. It does not size a header, does not check a span table, and does not know your local code. It answers a material planning question, how much lumber to buy, not a structural question, whether that wall is built correctly.
Before you build
Header size over a door or window opening depends on the opening width, the load above it and the species and grade of lumber, all of which vary by jurisdiction and are set by span tables in your local building code, not by this calculator. Treat the stud and plate counts here as a shopping list starting point, and confirm the actual framing plan, including header sizing and any load-bearing wall requirements, against your local code before cutting anything.
Frequently asked questions
How many studs does a wall need?
At 16 inch on-center spacing, a common rule of thumb is one stud per foot of wall length, plus one. This calculator uses the same layout math, ceiling the wall length in inches divided by the spacing, then adds studs for the jack and king studs around any rough openings you specify.
Is this enough to pull a building permit?
No. This is a material quantity estimate to help with a shopping list and rough budget, not a set of structural calculations or stamped drawings. Header sizing, load paths and any engineering requirements for openings or load-bearing walls need to be verified against your local building code and, where required, a licensed professional.
How many studs do I need for a 16 foot wall?
At 16 inch on centre spacing, you need 13 studs for a straight 16 foot wall. Add extras for corners, intersections and openings. The calculator gives you the base count and you add framing details.
What size lumber do I need for wall framing?
2 by 4 studs are standard for interior and exterior walls in most residential construction. 2 by 6 studs are used for exterior walls with extra insulation requirements. The calculator counts studs, and you select the size based on your code requirements.
How far apart should studs be?
16 inches on centre is the most common spacing. 24 inches on centre is allowed in some applications and uses fewer studs. The calculator lets you enter either spacing.
Do I need headers over windows and doors?
Yes, headers distribute the load above openings to the adjacent studs. The header size depends on the opening width and the load it carries. The calculator counts framing members, and your building code specifies header sizes.
How much framing lumber per square foot of wall?
A typical framed wall uses about 1 linear foot of lumber per square foot of wall area. The calculator computes the total based on your specific wall dimensions and framing layout.
What is the waste factor for framing lumber?
10 to 15 percent is standard. More complex framing with many angles and intersections needs more waste allowance. The calculator lets you set the waste percentage.