How much timber do I need for a stud wall?
Enter the wall length and we'll work out the CLS studwork and the cost — with the calculation shown. Studs typically sit at 400 mm or 600 mm centres, plus a head and sole plate.
≈3.6 m of timber per m² (studs @400, plates).
| CLS studwork timber (38×63) | 20 × 2.4 m length | £92 |
- 1Wall area: 12 m²
- 2Usage rate: ≈3.6 m of timber per m² (studs @400, plates)
- 3Allowing for waste: 12 × 3.6 × 1.1 waste = 48 m
- 4Packs: 48 m ÷ 2.4 per pack = 20 × 2.4 m length
- Material cost only — labour is estimated separately in the schedule.
- Indicative trade-counter price; confirm with a current supplier quote.
How to work out stud wall timber
- 1Vertical studs
At 400 mm centres, you need about one stud every 0.4 m, plus one at each end — roughly (length ÷ 0.4) + 1. At 600 mm centres it's fewer.
- 2Head and sole plates
Add two lengths running the full length of the wall — the top (head) and bottom (sole) plates the studs fix between.
- 3Noggins
Add horizontal noggins between studs (usually one or two rows) for rigidity and to back board edges.
- 4Then the boards
Plasterboard both sides — switch the calculator to boards to estimate those, plus insulation if it's a sound/thermal wall.
A stud wall is the quickest way to create or divide a room, and the timber is a small part of the cost — but ordering it right saves trips to the merchant mid-build. Count studs from the spacing, add the plates and noggins, then move on to boards and insulation.
Stud wall timber (indicative)
| Component | Rule of thumb | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Studs @ 400 mm centres | (length ÷ 0.4) + 1 | Standard spacing |
| Studs @ 600 mm centres | (length ÷ 0.6) + 1 | Where permitted |
| Head + sole plates | 2 × wall length | Top and bottom |
| Noggins | 1–2 rows | Between studs |
CLS 63×38 or 89×38 is typical for internal partitions. Add a little for cuts. Indicative — confirm with quotes.
Frequently asked questions
How much timber do I need for a stud wall?+
Count the vertical studs — about (wall length ÷ 0.4) + 1 at 400 mm centres — then add two plate lengths (head and sole) plus noggins. A 3 m wall needs roughly 9 studs plus plates and noggins.
What centres should stud walls be at?+
400 mm centres is the common default and suits standard plasterboard; 600 mm centres uses less timber but needs boards rated for the wider span. Doorways and heavy fixings need extra studs.
What size timber for a stud wall?+
CLS studwork of 63×38 mm or 89×38 mm is typical for internal partitions — the deeper section gives room for insulation and services and a more solid wall.
Related tools & guides
Want to know how these figures are calculated? See our cost methodology.
Cost figures shown are indicative estimates, not quotations. You are responsible for verifying all costs (obtain contractor quotes) and any figures submitted to a lender. ScopeWise is a documentation tool, not financial, tax, structural or planning advice. HMO compliance prompts are guidance only — confirm requirements with your local council, as standards and licensing vary by authority.