A stud finder is a device used to locate the position of studs, the vertical framing members in a wall. Studs are typically made of wood and are used to support the drywall or plaster that forms the surface of the wall. Finding studs is important for a variety of reasons, including hanging pictures or shelves, installing new fixtures, or making repairs.
Stud finders work by detecting the density of the material behind the wall surface. Studs are denser than the drywall or plaster, so a stud finder will emit a signal when it passes over a stud. There are a variety of different types of stud finders available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common types include magnetic stud finders, electronic stud finders, and laser stud finders.