stud
A vertical post, especially one of the small uprights in the framing for lath and plaster partitions, and furring, and upon which the laths are nailed.
stud: the skeleton of a wall before it's finished
A stud is a vertical wooden or metal post that forms the primary structural framing member in walls, partitions, and furring systems. In residential and light commercial construction, studs are the load-bearing or non-load-bearing uprights spaced at regular intervals, typically 16 or 24 inches on center, that create the frame to which laths, drywall, sheathing, or other finishes are attached.
Wooden studs in residential work are most commonly 2 by 4 lumber (nominally 1.5 by 3.5 inches actual), though 2 by 6 studs are used where extra depth is needed for insulation or mechanical systems. Metal studs, made from cold-formed galvanized steel, are 25 or 20 gauge and come in widths of 1.625, 2.5, 3.625, and 6 inches. Metal studs offer fire resistance and dimensional stability but require different fastening methods and tools than wood.
Placement and Load Paths
Studs run vertically from a bottom or sole plate to a top or double plate, creating a series of columns that transfer loads downward. In a typical wall, studs share space with other framing members: king studs at door and window openings carry concentrated loads through headers, while jack studs run from the sole plate only partway up to support those headers. Corner studs are doubled or tripled to provide nailing surfaces for intersecting walls and finishes meeting at right angles.
The spacing between studs directly affects the thickness and cost of finishes. Lath traditionally required 16-inch spacing to prevent sagging; drywall can span 24 inches on center if 1/2-inch thickness is used, or 16 inches if thinner 3/8-inch board is chosen. Wider spacing reduces labor and material but requires stiffer finishes and increases long-term deflection risk.
Problems arise when studs twist, cup, or bow after installation, pulling fasteners loose and causing nail pops and cracks in plaster or joint compound. Green lumber (high moisture content) is particularly prone to shrinkage and movement. Studs must be kept dry on the job site and protected from water damage during construction. In exterior walls, moisture barriers and proper ventilation between studs and sheathing are critical to prevent decay, especially at the bottom plates where water can accumulate.