Plan framing layouts with standard or custom on-center spacing settings today easily. Include corners, doors, windows, and double studs; estimate lumber fast accurately now.
| Wall Length | Spacing | Openings | End Assemblies | Waste | Studs (with waste) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 ft | 16 in on-center | 1 door (3 ft), 2 windows (4 ft) | Left 3 studs, Right 2 studs | 8% | See results after submit |
| 24 ft | 24 in on-center | No openings | Left 2 studs, Right 2 studs | 5% | See results after submit |
| 9.5 ft | Custom 14 in | 1 window (3 ft) | Left 1 stud, Right 1 stud | 10% | See results after submit |
1) Convert to inches: all lengths are converted to inches for consistent math.
2) Net run: Net = WallLength − TotalOpeningWidths.
3) Baseline stud count (net run, excluding special ends):
4) End assemblies: replace the single end stud with multiple studs.
5) Opening side studs: for each opening, add both sides:
ExtraOpenings = OpeningsCount × 2 × (KingPerSide + JackPerSide)
6) Waste factor: TotalWithWaste = ceil(Total × (1 + Waste%/100)).
Stud spacing controls how loads travel from sheathing and drywall into the frame. Common residential layouts use 16 in or 24 in on-center, balancing stiffness, material cost, and fastening patterns and durability. Tighter spacing reduces bending and nail pop risk, especially on tall walls and high-wind exposures.
This calculator offers 12, 16, 19.2, and 24 in options because they align with common panel modules. A 4×8 ft sheet spans 48 in, so 16 in gives three bays, 24 in gives two bays, and 19.2 in yields five studs per 8 ft run for efficient material planning.
Openings change the usable run. The tool subtracts total opening widths to produce a net run that drives spacing and baseline counts. You still add king and jack studs per side for each door or window, which reflects typical framing around headers and improves load transfer.
Keeping standard spacing preserves familiar layouts, but the last bay may be shorter. Even distribution adjusts the bay width so the end stud lands exactly at the net run, which can improve symmetry and reduce awkward partial bays when the wall length is not a clean multiple.
Corners often require 3 studs to create backing for interior finishes. Straight ends may need 2 studs for a post-like end. The calculator lets you set left and right assemblies, then adds the extra studs beyond the single stud already counted at each end.
Field conditions create waste: warped pieces, knots, miscuts, and layout changes. A 5–12% allowance is common for small projects, while complex walls with many openings may need more. The tool applies a simple ceiling-based uplift to keep purchasing conservative.
The positions table provides stud centerlines from the start point in inches. Use it to snap chalk lines or mark plates. For best practice, confirm that panel edges land on studs and that hardware locations, plumbing stacks, and electrical boxes do not collide with planned centers.
Results are planning-grade. Local codes, seismic requirements, engineered shear walls, and manufacturer nailing schedules may require different spacing or additional members. Always verify spans, loads, and header sizing with a qualified professional before ordering lumber for your specific site.
For non‑bearing interior partitions, 16 in on-center is common and makes drywall fastening straightforward. If the wall is short and lightly loaded, 24 in can work where permitted, but always confirm local code and finish requirements.
It subtracts opening widths from the run and adds side studs per opening (king and jack). Exact placement of cripple studs, headers, and sill framing depends on your opening heights and loads, so treat positions as a layout baseline.
19.2 in divides 96 in into five equal spaces, so an 8 ft module yields five studs across the length. It can reduce lumber while still supporting common panel sizes, but it is not used everywhere and may be code-limited.
It adjusts the bay size so the final stud lands exactly at the net run length. This avoids a very short last bay when the wall is not a clean multiple of the target spacing, improving visual uniformity and sometimes reducing cuts.
Use 3 studs for a typical corner that needs backing, and 2 studs for a reinforced end. If your design uses California corners or engineered details, set a lower count and follow your plan set or inspector guidance.
A practical starting point is 8%. Use 5% for simple straight runs with few openings, and 10–12% for many openings, angled walls, or uncertain material quality. Buying slightly extra reduces delays from shortages.
Yes. After calculating, use the CSV export for spreadsheets or the PDF export for sharing on site. Re-run the tool if you adjust spacing, openings, or waste, then save the updated export with the new scenario name.
Accurate stud spacing keeps walls strong, straight, and safe.
Important Note: All the Calculators listed in this site are for educational purpose only and we do not guarentee the accuracy of results. Please do consult with other sources as well.