Do Stud Finders Work On Metal Studs

A stud finder also stud detector or stud sensor is a handheld device used with wood buildings to locate framing studs located behind the final walling surface usually drywall while there are many different stud finders available most fall into two main categories.

Do stud finders work on metal studs. Some of this is a function of you get what you pay for since many low cost stud finders do not have the penetrating power to accurately get though the wall materials to find the studs. It also locates metal targets up to 3 in. Stud material most homes have wooden studs but commercial buildings may have metal studs and there are even instances when plastic studs are used. Certain stud finders are only calibrated to find one type so take the stud material into account as you shop.

There s also the issue of not having the sensors needed to find things that are important to you like electrical wires or metal studs or metal conduit. The stud finder scans the density of the wall then shows where the studs are located. Just like a metal detector the magnetic stud finder actually locates the studs support beams within the walls by detecting the beam itself if it is made out of metal. Magnetic stud detectors and electric stud finders.

Later devices incorporated electromagnetic metal detectors that were more sensitive and accurate. A 3 mode switch makes it easy to change functions while the backlit display screen spotlite pointer and audio tone all. An electronic device called a stud finder can help. Stud finders are small handheld tools you slide along the finished wall surface.

This added a visual aid of a compass needle helped the process further improving accuracy. Building on that a magnetic stud finder used a little compass needle that moved when the stud finder was dragged across a nail. If your stud finder seems to be picking up things between the studs it could be detecting metal or plastic plumbing components electrical boxes or wiring or metal ductwork. A stud finder is a valuable tool that makes the job of finding studs behind a wall very simple.

Simply make a mark on your wall where the stud finder beeps and you ll find something solid underneath to hold a nail or.