If you want to know how far apart are the studs in a house, we invite you to keep reading this blog to learn all you need to know about studs and their presence in the structure of your home. Usually, these studs are essential to support some shelving, so do not miss this vital information.
Are Studs Necessary?
Yes, studs are important for different reasons. Houses can’t survive without the support of studs. For example, just imagine how difficult it would be to live without bones in the body. You need bones to shape different body parts, so studs help shape the houses and reinforce spaces.
The wall stud spacing is essential in newly constructed residential or commercial buildings and home improvements and renovation. If the studs are not positioned as per requirement, the construction may not meet building codes.
Moreover, studs are essential parts of houses to maintain the structure safe and support the other parts. They separate rooms and spaces, but they also help to adapt other basic materials.
Studs Support the Building Walls
One of the most critical roles of studs is that they support the walls, hence taller buildings. According to the home building engineers of Enrique Hernandez Construction, on average, a load-bearing wall shall have at least 2×4 studs with spacing no more significant than 16-inches in the center (sometimes, 24 inches on center). However, the wall studs spacing requirement varies according to the country.
The Spacing from Studs Allow Proper Drywall Hangings
If the spacing of studs in a wall is improper, the wall sheeting becomes difficult. You can find Sheetrock and paneling in sheets measuring 4×8 feet. Usually, you can locate the studs behind the drywall, so it can be easier to find them with a stud finder, which counts on correct spacing to let them appropriately hang the drywall.
The electronic stud finders are available in the market so that you can get them anytime you want. There are two main types of stud finders: magnetic and electric, and both are great for finding studs’ locations.
They Provide Support to the Decoration on the Wall
Who would not want to decorate their home? If you are keen on home decor or home improvements, you shall know the correct spacing for studs in a wall. The wall studs spacing is crucial while hanging pictures and other decoration items on the wall. The hollow sound coming from a wall would not support decorations.
Heavy mirrors are attached to a stud. Finding them hidden inside a wall is more challenging when you don’t know how far apart. Take the help of an electronic stud finder. Also, it is essential to be careful with the center of studs because a little mistake could damage the structure.
How Far Apart Are Studs in a House?
Studs are the vertical boards inside walls that support the ceiling and the floors above. If there are no studs in house structures, it could let the house down and cause injuries and structure damages.
How far apart are studs in a house could differ from home, but usually, they are located 16 inches from center to center (sometimes 24). This distance depends on the inches between the floor and the ceiling, so keep reading to know more about studs.
Where Can You Find Studs?
You can find studs in the internal and external structure of your house walls. Due to exterior walls and almost all the interior walls have to support the building’s construction. While some inner walls are only partitions, it’s alright, even if they are not strong or without studs.
Another factor with the stud locations is the switches and outlets. Most of the time, electrical outlets are smartly located next to the stud (1.5 inches). Also, the electrical boxes tend to be linked to one stud as the switches too.
Wood Studs and Metal Studs
There exist two different resources for studs, which are wood and metals. Both studs materials have significant advantages for your house, but depending on the construction will define what material you should use. On the one hand, the wood studs are cheap and easier to handle (install and repair). On the other side, we have metal studs, which are stronger and durable.
Furthermore, you could identify that metal objects last longer than wood ones. Wood studs are more likely to get mold and mildew, and even bugs. For that reason, they cost less than metal because metal is more like to get corroded, but after many years (depending on the maintenance)
Usually, both types are located from 16 to 24 inches, so it means that the material does not affect the distance. Another vital aspect is not using finish nails with metal studs because the vibrations could damage the material and the drywall. Also, remember that metal studs could resist natural disasters.
What Is the Rule of the International Building Code?
The International Building Code mentions 16-inch on center spacing for 2×4 studs in exterior walls. On interior walls, 24 inches is acceptable.
This figure provided by the International Building Code can vary on the age of the home. Homes constructed before the middle of the 20th Century probably have studs set from 12 inches to 24 inches apart and just about anywhere in between. The reason is that there was little awareness about the building codes. The walls, at that time, would be covered with plaster.
Remember that it is essential to count on professional help to avoid any injury or bad construction in your house. Now that you know more about how far apart are studs in a house, it’s time to ask for help.
Here at Enriquez Construction, we assist you with any doubt you have, and we assure you that we work with the best professionals. Don’t hesitate to contact us and ask for help. When it comes to building places with studs, it is better to have professional advice.