Framing how-to · updated 29 August 2026

How to count wall studs

A stud takeoff is run divided by spacing, plus ends, then openings treated honestly. Construclytic does not size a header or pick a species. Formula LUM-STUD-001 stays on the sheet.

Spacing is on-center

A 16 in O.C. wall is not a 24 in O.C. wall. Measure the run, then divide by spacing and add the end stud. Corners and T-intersections still need extra studs — keep them visible rather than hiding a round-up inside length.

A door is not always a one-stud save. Kings and jacks still exist. If you do not have a schedule, keep opening extras as an allowance.

Plates and headers are not studs

Double plates, sills and headers belong on companion lines. Board-foot totals for a lumber package use the board-foot tool. This page is a count.

Do it in order

  1. Enter wall run and the on-center spacing you will actually frame.
  2. Treat openings as kings, jacks and cripples rather than a simple subtraction.
  3. Keep plates, headers and sheathing as separate lines.

Worked example — 20 ft wall, 16 in O.C.

20 ft is 240 in. 240 ÷ 16 = 15 spaces, plus the end stud is 16 studs before corners and openings. A 3 ft door is not a three-stud save once kings and jacks are in.

Planning boundary

This is a planning stud count. It does not size members, hold-downs or a stamped wall.

Does this replace a framing plan?

No. Spacing, header size and hold-downs sit with the responsible professional.

What about a 24 in O.C. wall?

Change the spacing input. Do not convert a 16 in count by eye.

Are plates included?

No. Use the linear-lumber or board-foot tool for plates.