How this calculator works
Studs go at the spacing you choose along the wall, plus one at the end, plus two more for each doorway. The head and sole plate run the length of the wall. Noggins fit between the studs, in a row at mid-height for a standard wall. Plasterboard is the wall area for each side you board, with 10% waste, in 2400 × 1200 mm sheets.
Worked example: a 4 m wall 2.4 m high at 400 mm centres with one doorway takes 13 studs (11 at 400 mm plus 2 for the door), 8.0 m of plate, 10 noggins and, boarded on both sides, 8 sheets of plasterboard with 253 screws and 1 roll of tape.
Studs and board by wall length (2.4 m high, 400 mm centres, one doorway, board both sides)
With 10% waste on the plasterboard.
| Wall length | Studs | Plates | Noggins | Plasterboard |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4 m | 9 | 4.8 m | 6 | 5 sheets |
| 3 m | 11 | 6.0 m | 8 | 6 sheets |
| 4 m | 13 | 8.0 m | 10 | 8 sheets |
| 5 m | 16 | 10.0 m | 13 | 10 sheets |
| 6 m | 18 | 12.0 m | 15 | 11 sheets |
Tips before you buy
- Studs at 400 mm centres suit 12.5 mm plasterboard, and 600 mm suits 15 mm board. The board edges must land on a stud.
- Fix noggins level with the joints between boards, and for heavy things such as shelves and radiators.
- Use a sole plate that is level, and fix it to the floor and the head plate to the joists above, or to noggins between them.
- Check the wall position for services under the floor and above the ceiling before you fix.
- Think about sound: mineral wool in the cavity and a second layer of board make a wall much quieter.
Tools & materials for this project
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Frequently asked questions
How many studs do I need for a 4 m stud wall?
13 studs at 400 mm centres with one doorway: 11 for the wall and 2 for the door. At 600 mm centres it is 10.
How many sheets of plasterboard for a 4m x 2.4m stud wall?
8 sheets of 2400 × 1200 mm to board both sides with 10% waste, or 4 for one side.
How far apart should studs be for plasterboard?
400 mm centres for 12.5 mm plasterboard, and up to 600 mm for 15 mm board. The edges of every board must land on a stud.
What size timber do I use for a stud wall?
Most partition walls use 75 × 50 mm timber, or 100 × 50 mm where you want more space for insulation or services. Check the span and the load.
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Estimates only. Results assume standard materials and simple shapes. Supplier products vary, and the final call on quantity, structure and safety is yours. Check your local code and your supplier's guidance before ordering.