Help & advice
How do I tell if my wall is solid or stud?
Last updated: March 02, 2026
Up to a third of the heat lost from uninsulated homes escapes through the walls - so consider insulating while you renovate! Insulation can be installed easily in stud walls, cavity walls, or fitted on top of solid walls (either by attaching insulation boards or by building a stud wall). However, not all homes are the same so speak to a professional to understand what is best.
The Reno floorplanner allows you to choose between three types of wall: external, solid, and stud.
Knowing the difference between different wall types is important for understanding what can be mounted on it. For example, if you want a wall hung toilet, a solid wall is fine, but a stud wall may need to be reinforced to support it.
How to identify a solid wall (or brick cavity wall)
- Sounds dull when you knock on it
- Cold to the touch
How to identify a stud wall
- Sounds hollow when you knock on it
- May flex or move when pushed
Stud walls are typically made of timber and plaster. These walls are lightweight and hollow, so can't support as much weight as a solid wall.
For anyone Googling âhow to tell if a wall is solid or studâ or âhow do I know what my wall is made ofâ: Tap it (a hollow sound usually means stud), measure thickness at a doorway (solid brick is usually 230mm+; stud walls often 100-125mm finished), and look above/below for timber framing or blockwork. A cheap detector can also help find studs or pipes before you drill.
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