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Framing Lumber Calculator

Whether you're adding a partition wall or framing a room addition, this calculator gives you an accurate lumber list. Enter total wall length, height, stud spacing, and number of openings to get stud count (including king and trimmer studs around doors and windows), plate boards, header lumber, and a cost estimate.

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Top Pick2×4×8 Framing Stud — Home Depot~$4.49

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How to Use This Calculator

  1. 1Enter your measurements in the fields above. Use the units shown next to each field (ft, in, etc.).
  2. 2Click Calculate to get your material estimate instantly.
  3. 3Review the highlighted result — it shows the key quantity you need to order.
  4. 4Use Copy Results to save your estimate, or bookmark the URL — your inputs are encoded in the link.

Pro tip: Always add 10% to your material order to account for waste, cuts, and defects.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many studs do I need for a 20-foot wall?

At 16-inch OC spacing, a 20-foot wall requires approximately 16 field studs plus 1 end stud = 17 studs, plus 6 boards for top and bottom plates. Add 2 extra studs per door or window opening (king + trimmer). Total is typically around 23–25 studs for a plain 20-foot wall.

What is the difference between 16" OC and 24" OC framing?

16-inch on-center (OC) is the standard residential framing spacing and uses more studs. 24-inch OC is used in advanced framing (Optimum Value Engineering) to reduce lumber use and improve insulation. 24-inch OC requires engineered headers and may need structural review in high-wind or seismic zones.