Stud calculator
Work out how many studs a wall needs at a given on-center spacing, plus extra studs for corners.
Stud calculator
Work out how many studs a wall needs at a given on-center spacing, plus extra studs for corners.
Enter the wall length and stud spacing to see the stud count.
Total studs
Project summary
How it works
This is a material planning estimate, not structural design. Corner framing method and stud spacing requirements depend on local code, so check both before building.
Stud calculator
What on-center spacing means for the count
Studs are laid out at a fixed on-center spacing, most commonly 16 or 24 inches, measured from the center of one stud to the center of the next. The calculator converts the wall length to inches, divides by the spacing, rounds up, and adds one for the starting stud at the beginning of the run. A shorter spacing means more studs for the same wall length, which is why 16 inch on-center walls need noticeably more lumber than 24 inch on-center ones.
Why corners take extra studs
Where two walls meet at a corner, the standard layout stud alone does not give the inside corner anything to nail drywall to, so framers commonly add extra studs there, most often forming a three-stud corner. This calculator adds two studs per corner you enter on top of the base layout, a common but not universal practice: some builders use a two-stud corner with drywall clips instead, so check what your framing plan and local code call for before finalizing a count.
Frequently asked questions
How many studs do I need for a 20 foot wall?
At 16 inch on-center spacing, a 20 foot wall needs 16 studs: 20 feet is 240 inches, divided by 16 gives 15, and adding one for the starting stud gives 16. Enter your own wall length and spacing here to get the exact count, plus any extra studs for corners.
Does this include studs for doors and windows?
No, this calculator counts only the base on-center layout plus corners. Rough openings for doors and windows need additional jack and king studs around the opening, which the framing calculator on this site includes alongside plate lengths for a fuller wall material estimate.
How many studs do I need for a 10 foot wall?
At 16 inch on centre spacing, you need 9 studs for a 10 foot wall. Add one for each end and extras for corners and openings. The calculator gives you the exact count.
What is the standard stud spacing?
16 inches on centre is the standard for most residential walls. 24 inches on centre is used in some applications. The calculator accepts either spacing.
How tall are standard studs?
Standard pre-cut studs are 92 5/8 inches tall, designed for 8 foot walls. The calculator counts studs based on your wall length, and you cut to height on site.
Do I need extra studs around windows and doors?
Yes, trimmers support the header above openings, cripple studs fill above and below, and king studs frame the sides. The calculator counts the base studs, and you add opening framing separately.
How much does a stud cost?
A standard 2 by 4 by 8 foot stud costs 3 to 5 dollars depending on grade and market. The calculator gives you the count so you can price the total.
Can I use metal studs instead of wood?
Metal studs are common in commercial construction and some residential applications. They cost more but do not rot or attract termites. The calculator counts pieces the same way regardless of material.