Top-Rated Stud Finders for Detecting Studs Through Wallpaper: An Actionable Guide

Detecting studs through wallpaper can be a tricky task, especially when the wall is covered with a thick, patterned, or textured material. When it comes to renovations, mounting heavy objects, or hanging pictures and shelves, identifying the exact location of studs is essential. If you're working with wallpaper, this task becomes even more challenging due to the added layer between the wall and the stud.

The right stud finder can make all the difference, and this guide will provide you with an actionable approach to finding the best stud finders for detecting studs through wallpaper. We'll explore the factors to consider when choosing a stud finder, the best models for the job, and how to use them effectively.

Why Detecting Studs Through Wallpaper is Challenging

Wallpaper, while beautiful, adds a layer of complexity when you need to locate studs behind it. Here's why:

1. Increased Wall Thickness

Wallpaper adds a layer of thickness to the wall surface, which can interfere with the accuracy of traditional stud finders. The thicker the wallpaper, the more difficult it becomes for the sensor to detect the stud properly.

2. Patterns and Texture

Textured or patterned wallpaper can create additional challenges. The varying thicknesses of the wallpaper, particularly embossed or heavily textured wallpaper, can lead to inaccurate readings from traditional stud finders, making it harder to pinpoint the exact location of the studs.

3. Wall Surface Interference

The adhesive used to apply wallpaper can cause resistance to the scanner's sensor, leading to unreliable or erratic readings. Some adhesives might also be slightly metallic or interfere with the depth of the sensor's detection, affecting its ability to distinguish between studs and other materials behind the wallpaper.

Key Features to Look for in a Stud Finder for Wallpaper Detection

To ensure that the stud finder works well through wallpaper, several features are critical. Here's what you need to look for:

1. Deep Scan Mode

A stud finder with a Deep Scan Mode is essential when dealing with wallpaper. This mode allows the sensor to detect studs behind additional layers of material, including wallpaper, drywall, and other surface coverings.

2. Metal Detection

Many studs are made of metal (or have metal anchors), and metal detection capabilities are necessary to help you find these studs, especially when they're embedded in a wall that's covered with wallpaper.

3. Multiple Scanning Modes

Some stud finders offer different modes, such as wood stud detection, metal stud detection, and AC wire detection. A multi-mode stud finder is ideal because it helps you identify various materials in your walls, including the studs behind wallpaper.

4. Edge Detection

Edge detection is the ability of a stud finder to detect the boundaries or edges of a stud. This feature can help you mark the edges of the stud accurately, ensuring that you avoid drilling or screwing into the wrong part of the wall.

5. Calibration

Proper calibration is necessary for accurate readings. Many stud finders allow you to calibrate them based on the type of material you're working with, which helps ensure that you're getting the most reliable results.

6. Ergonomics and Ease of Use

Comfortable, intuitive controls and a clear, readable display will make your task easier. You want a tool that is easy to use and won't strain your hands or cause frustration during long scanning sessions.

Top-Rated Stud Finders for Detecting Studs Through Wallpaper

1. Zircon MultiScanner A250C

Why It's Ideal for Detecting Studs Through Wallpaper:

The Zircon MultiScanner A250C is a high-performance stud finder that comes with multiple scanning modes, making it an excellent choice for locating studs behind wallpaper. It offers both wood and metal stud detection, as well as a DeepScan mode that allows it to detect studs even through multiple layers of material.

Key Features:

• MultiMode Technology: Capable of detecting wood, metal, and live electrical wiring, making it versatile for all your scanning needs.
• DeepScan Mode: Allows you to detect studs even if they are buried behind thick wallpaper or plaster.
• Accurate Edge Detection: Helps you locate the edges of studs precisely, which is crucial for drilling or mounting objects.
• User-Friendly Display: Provides clear visual feedback about what's being detected, making it easy to understand what the tool is showing you.

How to Use:

1. Turn on the stud finder and set it to DeepScan mode.
2. Slowly move the device across the wallpaper-covered wall. The display will indicate when a stud is detected.
3. Use the edge detection feature to find the boundaries of the stud.
4. Mark the stud's location before drilling or mounting any objects.

Pros:

• Accurate and reliable in detecting studs through thick materials.
• Easy-to-read screen and clear markings for edge detection.
• Lightweight and ergonomic design.

Cons:

• Calibration might take a moment to get accurate readings.
• Requires a bit of patience for thicker wallpaper.

2. Bosch GMS120 Digital Multi-Scanner

Why It's Ideal for Detecting Studs Through Wallpaper:

The Bosch GMS120 is another top-rated stud finder with the ability to locate studs through wallpaper. Its deep scanning technology and metal detection capabilities make it an excellent tool for this purpose.

Key Features:

• Four Detection Modes: Includes wood, metal, deep scan, and live wire detection. This versatility allows you to scan for a variety of materials, including studs behind wallpaper.
• DeepScan Mode: The DeepScan mode is particularly useful for detecting studs hidden behind wallpaper or drywall.
• Ergonomic Design: Comfortable to hold for extended periods, making it ideal for large projects.
• Clear LCD Display: Provides visual feedback with an easy-to-read display that helps you pinpoint the stud's location.

How to Use:

1. Set the tool to the DeepScan mode for optimal detection through thick materials.
2. Slowly move the device across the wall in a horizontal motion.
3. The display will indicate the presence of studs, and you can then mark the location for future use.
4. For a more precise location, use the edge detection feature to outline the stud.

Pros:

• Excellent for detecting both wood and metal studs.
• Multi-mode functionality increases its versatility.
• Durable and ergonomic design for comfort.

Cons:

• May take longer to find studs in very thick walls or heavily textured wallpaper.
• Calibration is required to get the best results.

3. Franklin Sensors ProSensor 710+

Why It's Ideal for Detecting Studs Through Wallpaper:

The Franklin Sensors ProSensor 710+ is known for its high sensitivity and wide scanning range. It can detect studs through wallpaper, plaster, and even thick drywall, making it ideal for a variety of surfaces.

Key Features:

• Wide Sensor Array: Features multiple sensors that can detect studs across a larger area, reducing the need to scan back and forth repeatedly.
• Auto Calibration: Automatically calibrates the sensor to ensure accurate readings, even through wallpaper.
• High Sensitivity: Sensitive enough to detect studs behind thicker materials, including wallpaper and textured surfaces.
• Clear LED Indicators: The LED indicators provide instant feedback, showing you the location of studs and their edges in real-time.

How to Use:

1. Turn on the stud finder and allow it to auto-calibrate.
2. Move the device horizontally across the wall, and watch for LED lights indicating the presence of studs.
3. Use the LED array to pinpoint the edges of studs for accurate drilling or mounting.

Pros:

• Wide scanning range reduces the time spent scanning.
• Highly sensitive and effective through wallpaper.
• Easy-to-read LED indicators provide quick feedback.

Cons:

• Larger size might make it less comfortable for tight spaces.
• Doesn't offer deep scan modes for very thick walls or extremely dense wallpaper.

Final Thoughts

When dealing with wallpaper-covered walls, the best stud finders are those that can penetrate multiple layers of material, including wallpaper, drywall, and plaster. A deep scan mode, metal detection, and accurate edge detection are all essential features to look for in a stud finder for this job.

The Zircon MultiScanner A250C , Bosch GMS120 , and Franklin Sensors ProSensor 710+ are all top-rated choices, offering a range of features to help you detect studs through wallpaper with ease and precision.

Choosing the right stud finder is essential for any renovation or mounting project, and investing in a quality tool can save you time, effort, and avoid costly mistakes.