≈ 400 mm
Walls
Add one or more walls. Use corner ends to avoid double-counting when entering multiple connected walls.
Stud Calculator Guide — Wall Framing & Spacing
This framing calculator estimates the total studs needed for wall construction including common studs, king studs, jack studs, and cripple studs. It supports multiple walls, openings, corner configurations, and T-intersections with waste allowance.
Studs Per Wall — Quick Reference
| Wall length | 16" spacing (studs) | 24" spacing (studs) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 ft | 7 | 5 | Small bedroom wall |
| 10 ft | 8–9 | 6 | |
| 12 ft | 10 | 7 | Common room width |
| 16 ft | 13 | 9 | |
| 20 ft | 16 | 11 | Garage wall |
| 24 ft | 19 | 13 | Typical garage width |
Common studs only — add king studs, jack studs, cripples, and corner extras for openings and corners.
Lumber Cost Reference (2026 US Averages)
| Lumber size | Use | Cost each | Cost per linear ft |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2×4 × 8 ft (precut) | Interior walls, partitions | $4–$8 | $0.50–$1.00 |
| 2×4 × 92-5/8" stud | Standard 8-ft wall stud | $4–$7 | $0.52–$0.91 |
| 2×6 × 8 ft | Exterior walls (insulation depth) | $8–$14 | $1.00–$1.75 |
| 2×4 × 10 ft | 9-ft ceiling walls | $6–$10 | $0.60–$1.00 |
| LVL beam (3.5" wide) | Headers over large openings | $4–$8 per lf | $4–$8 |
Lumber prices fluctuate — check your local supplier. Add bottom plates, top plates, and headers for each opening.
16 vs 24 Inch Stud Spacing
| Factor | 16" on-center | 24" on-center |
|---|---|---|
| Lumber use | More studs (~33% more vs 24") | Fewer studs — lower cost |
| Wall stiffness | Stiffer — better for load-bearing | Adequate for non-load-bearing |
| Drywall alignment | Aligns with 4×8 sheet edges | Still aligns with 4×8 sheets |
| Drywall thickness | 1/2" works fine | Needs 5/8" for exterior walls |
| Best for | Exterior walls, load-bearing, most residential | Interior partitions, some additions |
Stud Types Explained
- Common studs — full-height studs spaced at regular intervals along the wall
- King studs — full-height studs on each side of a door or window opening (2 per opening)
- Jack studs (trimmer studs) — shorter studs inside the king studs that directly support the header (2 per opening)
- Cripple studs — short studs below a window sill and above headers to the top plate
- Corner extras — additional studs at corners to provide backing for drywall attachment
- Tee studs — extra studs where interior walls intersect exterior walls (+2 per intersection)
Frequently Asked Questions
Wall Framing Planning Checklist
Covers layout marking, stud spacing, rough opening sizes, header sizing, corner and tee configurations, plate connections, and inspection requirements before purchasing lumber.
Download Checklist (PDF)Planning reference only. See Methodology and Data Sources. View all project checklists →
Related Lumber & Framing Calculators
Disclaimer: Results are for general planning 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 Methodology and Data Sources for details.