How Many 2×4 Do I Need Calculator | Lumber, Studs, and Costs

  • by Robert Johnson
  • Last Updated:
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You will end up with a lousy project if you do not plan and figure out how much lumber you need. To get precise measurements, this calculator will determine how much 2×4 lumber you will need. To know more about how to use it, here are a few points:

How Do You Determine the Amount of 2x4 Lumber You Need?

You can figure out the amount of 2×4 lumber you need by multiplying the total wall length (in feet) by 0.75 (16” on-center stud spacing). 

  • Add three studs for each 90-degree corner
  • Add four studs for each 45-degree corner
  • Add two studs for each opening that is 5 feet wide or less
  • Add one stud for each opening over 5 feet wide

2x4 Calculator Formula

Here is the formula behind the 2×4 lumber calculator that determines how many studs you need:

2×4 you need = wall length in feet x 0.75 (16 inch OC) +1

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To consider both ends of the wall, we need to add one or more, depending on the corner and openings.

2x4 Calculator Costs Formula

To calculate the lumber price [1] per linear foot, multiply the number of linear feet by the price per foot. Here is the equation behind the calculator:

Cost of lumber  = total linear feet (length in feet) * price per foot

A stud typically 92 ⅝” in length costs $5.17 approximately.

FAQ

How many 2x4 are in a 24-foot wall?

In a 24-foot wall, there are 20 2×4 studs. You will determine the amount of 2×4 you need by converting the wall length into inches, dividing it by the stud spacing, and adding one more. 

For example: 24’10” wall

Convert: 24*12 = 288+10 = 298

Divide: 298/16 = 18.625 rounded to 19 + 1 = 20

How many 2x4 fit in a 24x24 garage?

A 24×24 garage can fit 103 pieces of 2×4 studs. Here is a list of 2×4 lumber needed for a 24x24x8 garage:

  • 80 2x4 studs (8’ long)
  • 16 2x4 (12’ long)
  • 7 2x4 pressure-treated studs (12’ feet long)
Robert Johnson
Robert Johnson
Robert Johnson is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the rest of the world. His brainchild, Sawinery, allowed him to do so as well as connect with other craftsmen and women. He has since built an enviable workshop for himself and an equally impressive online accomplishment: an extensive resource site serving old timers and novices alike.
Robert Johnson
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