Do Stud Finders Work Through Stucco

Finding studs through drywall is done routinely by using a stud finder.

Do stud finders work through stucco.

Stud finders may also be found in the hardware department of most department stores. Studsensor stud finders locate studs by identifying increases and changes in density behind the wall. The consistent texture of drywall allows the stud finder to efficiently send an infrared signal through the material. Stud finders are designed to scan through sheet materials that have a consistent thickness and density and have a fairly smooth surface.

Stucco walls typically have chicken wire or some other metal mesh embedded in the stucco and that metal barrier will prevent your stud finder from sensing the increased density necessary to locate the studs. To function properly the wall surface must have a consistent density level and be less dense than the wood stud. You could spring for an expensive x ray unit but most homeowners prefer an easier and cheaper approach to finding studs in stucco siding and other materials. The exterior cladding and boxing make an electronic stud finder ineffective because they re too thick and solid to get accurate readings.

Locate studs on an outdoor stucco wall with a magnet your knuckle or a stud finder by checking along the same wall from indoors. Location of studs through a stucco wall can be almost impossible without a stud finder. Zircon s highly developed stud finders are good at the side to side sweep detection method. How stud finders work.

Mark the studs locations and measure the distance in between each one. Stud finders can be purchased at hardware and home improvement stores. A smooth interior drywall surface can make locating studs easier. Stud finders however will not always return accurate results with lath and plaster walls because of the very inconsistent method by which they are constructed.

Locate studs on an outdoor stucco wall with a magnet your knuckle or a stud finder by checking along the same wall from indoors. For 29 this is a good stud finder once you get the hang of the back and forth sweeping.