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Job Site Diaries

How to Find Wall Studs Without a Stud Finder

Looking for studs? Watch this video for a low-tech method that won't break the bank.

By Kiefer Limeback
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How to Use a Penlight as a Stud Finder
Kiefer Limeback shows how a really bright LED flashlight can reveal the slight variations in the wall that have studs behind them.
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    FHB ambassador and toolaholic Kiefer Limeback shows how a really bright LED flashlight can reveal the slight variations in the wall where the studs are located.

    Regarding this method, Kiefer says, “How to find studs? Step one, don’t use a stud finder. Unless your walls are level 5, chances are you will find screws. The unfortunate side effect is that you may find your walls aren’t as pretty as you thought!”

    Click here for more from Kiefer Limeback.

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    View Comments

    1. dylanglenn755 | Mar 01, 2017 02:10am | #1

      very good unique tool nice tool

    2. Adelazhang | Mar 03, 2017 01:38am | #2

      Nice Tools!!!

    3. craigschoppe | Mar 06, 2017 05:54pm | #3

      A good mud job can foil your method or at least render it difficult. Here is another option.
      I carry a 1/2 diam. spherical rare earth magnet or two stuck to a convenient magnetic like the side of a hammer or nail gun. This little gem pinpoints screws or nails thereby locating studs. A 24" beaded chain with a mark at 16" is also handy. attach the first bead to the magnet and either let it hang to find the lay of the stud or swing it 90º to the floor to find the next stud. No guessing. .

    4. mrmorky | Mar 06, 2017 06:58pm | #4

      I have used a strong beam flashlight for years to find the screws ie the studs behind,Usually there are dimples where the screws have been covered and in a slightly darkened room, the whole series of screws shows up very well.
      Bill T

    5. roselana | Mar 14, 2017 02:08am | #5

      Very Nice Tools.

    6. clairepazot | Mar 14, 2017 04:09am | #6

      Good tool for clean and fast work doing here

    7. riverajenny935 | Mar 20, 2017 06:23am | #7

      fantastic tools

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