Stud wall calculator: how much timber do I need?
Divide the wall length by the stud spacing and add one to get the number of studs. Then add a top and bottom plate (twice the wall length) and a row of noggins (once the wall length) to get the total metres of timber.
Example: A wall 3 m long and 2.4 m high at 600 mm centres needs 6 studs at 2.4 m, 6 m of plates and 3 m of noggins: about 23.4 linear metres of timber.
How to use it
- Measure the wall length and floor-to-ceiling height
- Pick 600 mm or 400 mm stud centres
- Add extra studs for each door opening and corner
- Add the result to your list and send it for a quote
These are estimates for planning and pricing, not specifications. Check quantities against your drawings, and follow your builder, engineer or the manufacturer’s guidance. Allan will check the quantities with you before anything is ordered.
Common questions
Should studs be at 400 mm or 600 mm centres?
600 mm centres are common for non-load-bearing partitions boarded with 12.5 mm plasterboard. 400 mm centres are used for thinner board, heavy wall fixings or where the design says so. Check the board manufacturer’s guidance.
What timber is used for stud walls?
CLS is the usual choice for internal stud walls, commonly 38 × 63 mm or 38 × 89 mm. For load-bearing walls, follow the size and strength grade your engineer or building control sets.
Does the calculator include door openings?
No. For each door, add a stud either side and a short length for the head, plus any cripple studs your builder uses.
How many noggins does a stud wall need?
The calculator allows one row across the wall. Add a row for every extra fixing line you need, such as behind boards’ edges, radiators, cupboards or a TV.
Get it priced
- Nothing added yet. Use a calculator and press "Add to my list".