Stud Calculator – Fast Wall Framing Takeoff
This stud calculator quickly estimates the studs you need for straight walls. Enter wall length and height, choose stud spacing (16" or 24" on-center, or 400/600 mm), add typical doors and windows, and include corners, tee intersections, plus a small waste allowance. The tool breaks out common studs, king studs, jack/trimmer studs, and cripple studs under windows.
How the Framing Math Works
- Base studs:
floor(wall length ÷ spacing) + 1(stud at both ends). - Openings remove commons across their span:
studs removed ≈ ceil(width ÷ spacing)(clamped so it can’t remove more than the wall has). - King studs: 2 per opening; Jack studs: 2 per opening (one each side).
- Cripple studs below windows:
floor(width ÷ spacing) + 1. - Corners: per corner end, 3-stud corner adds +2 extras; 2-stud corner adds +1 extra.
- Tees (intersections): +2 studs per tee.
Spacing Tips: 16″ vs 24″ (400 vs 600 mm)
16″ o.c. (≈400 mm) gives stiffer walls and lines up with most drywall/sheathing edges. 24″ o.c. (≈600 mm) saves lumber but can feel more flexible; check local code, wind/seismic requirements, and drywall thickness before choosing.
Openings, Corners & Tees
Each door or window adds king and jack studs and removes common studs under the span. Windows also need cripples below the sill. Corners and tees provide backing for drywall—choose which wall ends are true corners to avoid double-counting when you enter multiple walls.
Note
Header sizing and structural requirements vary by span and code—use this for takeoff planning and verify details on your drawings or with a builder/engineer.
Related Lumber & Framing Calculators
Important Estimate Disclaimer
These estimates are for general planning purposes only and should not be used as structural design guidance. Actual lumber quantities depend on span limits, load requirements, material grade, and building code compliance.
See our Methodology and Data Sources for reference information.
Structural framing components should be verified against current code requirements before construction.