Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations.
If you punch links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Never drill in the wrong spot again.
Photo:Real Simple
A stud finder is your trusty BFF.
Below, find out which model is best for your next home project.
It cannot detect live wires.
PHOTO: Amazon
Just note that it feels bulky and cannot fit in your pocket.
It also does not detect electrical wires or piping.
Its not effective on plaster or dense material more than three quarters of an inch thick.
PHOTO: Real Simple
It doesnt come with edge-to-edge sensors.
The Calculated Industries Magnetic Stud uses rare earth magnets to detect metal fasteners buried within drywall or sheetrock.
You then can mark the spot with the notched tip that comes with it.
Because its magnetic, you wont be able to use it to find electrical wires in your wall.
Its nine sensors make finding studs easy, plus it is reasonably priced.
Our first step was to turn the tools on and calibrate them before using them if needed.
Next, we placed the stud finder flush against the wall and held it steady to activate it.
Both help find studs but have different methods to pick them up.
Because they can only be used to find screws and not studs, theyre better for rough estimations.
They cannot detect electrical wiring or conduits and cannot scan as deeply as an electric stud finder.
It works by detecting changes in wall density to locate studs.
Scanning Depth
For most drywall projects, a 1.5-inch scanning depth is all you need.
However, dont assume that deeper scanning guarantees more accurate results.
Anything deeper is overkill unless you are working on double-layer drywall or custom acoustic paneling, Niemela says.
Start with a shallow scan and only switch to deep mode if youre not getting clear results.
Additionally, you shouldnt go too fast when performing a deep scan.
When electrical wiring is present, Taylor emphasizes safety first.
If youre drilling near an outlet, its always smart to double-check with a voltage detector.
PHOTO: Amazon
Its an easy extra step to verify youre staying safe.
Questions You Might Ask
Which stud finders work best on all wall types?
Electronic stud finders detect density changes in the wall and can find studs under most wall surface types.
PHOTO: Real Simple
PHOTO: Amazon
PHOTO: Real Simple
Real Simple
Real Simple
