More Accurate & Affordable Stud Finder for Complex Wall Scenarios
A homeowner is running into problems with a cheap stud finder that keeps picking up electrical wiring where there shouldn't be any, which is a real headache when you're trying to rely on these tools. There's definitely room for a more accurate but still budget-friendly stud finder that can better tell the difference between studs, live wires, and pipes—especially in tricky spots like garages or older homes with plaster and lath walls. The perks? Better safety and efficiency for both DIY projects and professional jobs, fewer mistakes and less wall damage, and a lot more trust in the tool.
Origin Reddit Post
r/homeimprovement
Stud finder is detecting electrical wiring where there shouldn't be any.
Posted by u/reticularformation•05/31/2025
I have a rather low budget stud finder (Zircon L50) that has served me well enough over the years, but I'm running into an issue. I'm currently using it in my garage, and the electrical line
Top Comments
u/Shadow288
I think those stud finders can be somewhat inaccurate. Can you cut into the wall and investigate? You could get one of those cheap bore scopes and stick it in the wall looking for wires.
u/reticularformation
That's a great thought, but it's just plain old drywall in the garage. Thanks, though!
u/Kobold_Bascha
So this may not be relevant to your situation since you said it's a garage, but I ran into the same issue in my house. It ended up being the wire mesh in my plaster and lathe walls triggering
u/reticularformation
That's a good thought. A few holes wouldn't be a big deal if I do it a the level where a cleat is going to go anyway. Thanks for the idea!