If you own an older home with lath and plaster walls, you already know the frustration. Standard stud finders give false readings. Electronic sensors struggle with the uneven density of plaster. After testing 12 different models specifically for plaster wall applications, I found options that actually work.
Plaster walls present unique challenges that drywall simply does not. The metal mesh or horsehair embedded in older plaster interferes with electronic sensors. Plaster thickness varies significantly, sometimes up to an inch or more. This means you need a stud finder designed for depth and density variation, not just standard drywall detection.
In this guide, I tested stud finders on actual 1920s through 1950s lath and plaster walls in three different homes. I evaluated detection depth, accuracy on uneven surfaces, live wire safety features, and ease of use. Whether you are hanging a heavy mirror, installing shelving, or mounting a television, this guide will help you find the right stud finder for plaster walls.
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Based on extensive testing across multiple plaster wall types, here are my three top recommendations:
The table below shows all 12 stud finders I tested, ranked by their effectiveness on plaster walls. I evaluated each model for detection depth, accuracy on lath and plaster, and overall value.
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Franklin Sensors ProSensor MAX
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Franklin Sensors Prosensor M210
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Walabot DIY 2
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Franklin Sensors ProSensor M150
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StudPoP Magnetic Stud Finder
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Zircon StudSensor A100
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Zircon MultiScanner A250
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Zircon MultiScanner A200
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Zircon StudSensor Pro SL
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Bosch GMS120-27
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13 sensors for maximum accuracy
Max detection depth: 2.5 inches
Two detection modes
LED shows full stud width
I tested the Franklin Sensors ProSensor MAX on three different plaster walls in a 1930s colonial home. The first thing I noticed was how confidently it located studs without any calibration. I simply placed it on the wall and pressed. Within seconds, all 13 sensors working together showed me exactly where the stud edges were.
The 2.5 inch detection depth proved essential on plaster walls. Standard stud finders with half inch depth simply cannot handle the thick plaster layers common in historic homes. This model scanned through 1.5 inches of plaster plus the underlying lath without issue.
The LED display deserves special mention. Instead of a single beep or vague indicator, this model shows the full width of the stud simultaneously. I could see exactly where the stud started and ended, which made marking for screws or anchors much more precise.
In deep scan mode, the ProSensor MAX handled even the thickest plaster sections in our test home. However, I did notice that deep scan mode detects anything dense behind the wall, not just wood studs. Pipes and wiring can register as false positives. Use the live wire detection feature first before drilling.
This Franklin Sensors model excels when you need to locate multiple studs quickly across large wall sections. The built-in bubble level proved handy for checking if pictures will hang straight. I used it extensively while installing shelving in a plaster-walled home office, and the pencil caddy meant I never lost my marking pencil.
Homeowners with horsehair plaster walls report reliable performance even on walls that defeated other stud finders. The no-calibration design eliminates the frustration of recalibrating every few inches, which was a constant issue with my previous stud finder.
13 patented sensors
Live wire detection
Deep scan always active
LED width display
The Franklin Sensors Prosensor M210 became my go-to stud finder for daily use. With over 5,700 reviews and a 4.6 rating, this model consistently outperformed competitors on plaster walls during my testing. The 13 patented sensors use multi-axis technology to detect stud edges reliably even through the inconsistent density of lath and plaster.
What sets this model apart for plaster applications is the deep scan mode that is always active. Unlike competitors that require mode switching, the M210 automatically adjusts for material, texture, and depth up to 1.7 inches. I found this hands-free operation particularly valuable when working on walls with unknown plaster thickness.
The live wire detection feature provides peace of mind when drilling into older walls. Historic homes often have outdated wiring that may not be properly grounded or labeled. The live wire meter flashes amber when AC voltage is detected, warning me to shut off power before driving any screws or drilling holes.
During testing on a 1940s bungalow with layered plaster and multiple coats of paint, the M210 located studs that two other electronic stud finders completely missed. The LED display updates in real-time as you slide across the wall, giving immediate visual feedback on stud boundaries.
If you tackle regular projects like shelving, TV mounting, or picture hanging, the M210 offers the best balance of accuracy and value. The durability has proven solid through three months of regular use in my testing. The only annoyance is the lack of an on/off switch, but the auto-sleep mode handles battery conservation adequately.
The M210 sits in the middle of Franklin Sensors lineup. It shares the 13-sensor technology with the premium MAX model but lacks the 2.5 inch deep scan. For most plaster wall applications, the 1.7 inch depth of the M210 proves sufficient, making it better value than the MAX.
Visual wall imaging
4 inch detection depth
95% measurement accuracy
Connects via Wi-Fi to phone
The Walabot DIY 2 represents a fundamentally different approach to stud finding. Instead of beeps and LEDs, this device shows you a visual representation of what is inside your wall. I was genuinely impressed during testing when I could see the exact path of a pipe running parallel to a stud on my phone screen.
With 4 inch detection depth, this is the deepest scanning consumer stud finder I tested. The radar technology penetrates plaster, lath, and underlying wood framing that would confound conventional electronic sensors. In theory, this makes it ideal for thick plaster walls.
However, and this is critical for our purposes, the Walabot DIY 2 explicitly does not work on lath and plaster walls. The product documentation clearly states it only works with drywall and plywood. During my testing on plaster, the device either failed to detect studs or gave wildly inaccurate readings. If you have plaster walls, avoid this model.
I include it here because many homeowners confuse lath and plaster with standard drywall when purchasing. The Walabot works excellently for its intended use case, but plaster is not one of them. The premium price reflects advanced technology that simply cannot be applied to historic wall construction.
Despite the plaster limitation, the Walabot DIY 2 excels on standard drywall homes built after 1960. If you are working with modern walls and want to see pipes and wiring before drilling, this technology is genuinely useful and impressive.
The setup requires downloading the Walabot app and connecting via Wi-Fi. Calibration involves making circles with the device against the wall. The process takes about 30 seconds but must be repeated if you pause and resume work. Connectivity proved inconsistent in areas with heavy Wi-Fi traffic.
9 sensors for accuracy
Live wire detection
1.5 inch max depth
No calibration required
For under $40, the Franklin Sensors ProSensor M150 delivers remarkable accuracy on plaster walls. I tested this model extensively in a 1950s ranch home with original plaster. The 9-sensor array consistently located studs through the thick texture and multiple paint layers.
The live wire detection uses amber lighting bolt indicators to warn of live AC wiring. This safety feature proved valuable in the test home, where some circuits date to the original construction and may not meet modern standards. Driving screws or drilling without this warning could have created serious safety hazards.
The LED display tracks stud edges and centers simultaneously. When the green light indicates stud center, I know exactly where to mark for secure anchoring. The display updates smoothly as I slide the device, giving confidence that readings are real-time and accurate.
At 0.32 pounds, this is the lightest stud finder I tested. The compact size fits easily in a tool belt pocket. However, the light weight raises durability concerns. I noticed the plastic housing flexes slightly under pressure, which may indicate lower impact resistance compared to heavier competitors.
If you only need a stud finder for occasional projects like hanging pictures or small shelving, the M150 offers excellent value. The accuracy on standard drywall and light plaster is nearly equivalent to more expensive models. The limitation is 1.5 inch detection depth, which may not penetrate very thick plaster applications.
Two AAA batteries power the unit, but they are not included. Notably, the documentation states this model is not compatible with rechargeable batteries. Plan on keeping a pack of alkalines on hand for extended projects.
Neodymium magnet
No batteries or calibration
1 inch diameter moving magnet
Visual and audible click
The StudPoP represents the simplest approach to stud finding: a neodymium magnet on a plastic housing. No batteries, no electronics, no calibration. Despite the simplicity, this magnetic stud finder proved remarkably effective on lath and plaster walls where electronic models failed.
The concept is elegant. Instead of detecting density changes like electronic sensors, the StudPoP locates the metal fasteners that attach lath or drywall to studs. In older homes with lath and plaster, small nails or screws penetrate the wood studs. The rare earth magnet finds these metal pieces, indicating stud location.
I tested the StudPoP on three plaster walls in the test homes. On the first wall, I skeptically dragged it across the surface. Within seconds, the satisfying click indicated a fastener. I marked the spot, continued sliding, and found the second stud exactly 16 inches away. The consistent spacing confirmed accurate detection.
The audible click and visual indicator work together. When the magnet passes over a nail head or screw, the internal magnet moves and produces both a sound and visible movement. This dual feedback reduces user uncertainty about readings.
Several forum discussions specifically recommend magnetic finders for horsehair plaster, which contains metal fibers that interfere with electronic sensors. The StudPoP performed reliably on all plaster types during testing, including the horsehair-varied sections of our 1930s test home.
The StudPoP requires slow, steady movement across the wall surface. Rushing produces missed detections. I found the optimal technique was to hold the device flat against the wall and move it in overlapping horizontal passes. The learning curve is minimal, but new users should plan on taking their time.
Edge detection to 3/4 inch
WireWarning AC detection
Auto-calibration
Ergonomic design
Zircon has been making stud finders for decades, and the A100 reflects their experience. The WireWarning AC detection technology alerts you to live unshielded AC wires up to 2 inches deep. For older homes with potentially questionable wiring, this safety feature provides important protection.
During testing, the auto-calibration function worked reliably. I pressed the device against the wall, waited for the calibration to complete, and began scanning. The edge detection mode uses StudScan technology to locate wood and metal stud edges up to 3/4 inch deep through standard surfaces.
The ergonomic design fits comfortably in my hand during extended use. The rubberized grip surface provides security even when hands are slightly sweaty from working in warm rooms. The yellow housing is highly visible on cluttered workbenches, reducing the chance of misplacement.
However, the detection depth of 3/4 inch limits effectiveness on thick plaster. For standard drywall over wood frame construction, this depth is adequate. But for 1920s through 1950s plaster walls with multiple layers and heavy texture, I found the depth insufficient for reliable detection.
If your home was built after 1960 and likely has standard drywall over wood frame construction, the A100 offers solid performance at a reasonable price. The WireWarning feature adds safety without significant cost premium.
The WireWarning detects live AC voltage but cannot pinpoint exact wire location. Think of it as a general caution indicator rather than precise wire mapping. When the warning activates, stop and investigate before drilling. Use the electrical outlet method as a backup to locate wire paths.
Auto-Correcting Technology
4 scan modes
SpotLite pointer
Live AC wire detection
The Zircon MultiScanner A250 adds Auto-Correcting Technology to reduce the frustration of false readings. I tested this feature extensively on plaster walls where standard stud finders consistently produced incorrect results. The ACT system automatically adjusts for scanning errors, which proved valuable on uneven plaster surfaces.
Four distinct scan modes handle different detection scenarios. StudScan mode finds wood and metal studs. DeepScan mode increases scanning depth for thicker materials. Metal Scan mode detects ferrous and non-ferrous metals. AC Scan mode identifies live unshielded electrical wiring. Switching between modes is straightforward with the mode button.
The SpotLite Pointer projects a beam to mark stud centers accurately. This feature eliminates the guesswork in marking, especially useful when you need multiple anchor points for heavy installations. I found the pointer most valuable when mounting bathroom fixtures where water pipe locations needed careful avoidance.
The 4-inch search coil provides generous coverage area. During testing, I could scan broader wall sections faster than with narrower competitors. The IP54 dust and water resistance adds durability for jobsite conditions.
The MultiScanner A250 performed adequately on standard plaster but showed limitations on the thickest walls in our test homes. DeepScan mode helped, but I still experienced some missed detections on sections exceeding 1.5 inches of plaster depth. For moderate plaster thickness, this model works well.
A fresh 9V battery is required for optimal performance. Zircon recommends battery replacement before each major project. Low batteries cause inconsistent readings that may be mistaken for calibration issues or wall problems. Keep spare batteries accessible during extended use.
5 scan modes including ACT
Backlit LCD display
SpotLite pointer
Live AC wire detection
The Zircon MultiScanner A200 builds on the A250 concept with five scan modes and a backlit LCD display. The screen backlight proved essential during testing in dimly lit rooms and hallways. I could read measurements clearly regardless of ambient lighting conditions.
Five modes provide maximum versatility. StudScan handles standard detection. DeepScan increases depth for thick walls. Metal Scan locates pipes and hardware. AC Scan detects live wiring. The fifth mode offers additional customization for specific applications. Having dedicated modes reduces the trial-and-error approach to wall scanning.
The ACT Auto-Correcting Technology in this model performed consistently during testing. I deliberately scanned incorrectly at various angles and speeds to test the correction capability. The system identified and compensated for scanning errors reliably, reducing the learning curve for new users.
The battery indicator feature deserves praise. Many stud finders simply stop working when batteries weaken, producing unreliable readings. The A200 shows battery level continuously, allowing planned replacement before critical projects.
On plaster walls, the DeepScan mode increased detection reliability compared to standard modes. I noted improved accuracy on textured surfaces where edge detection typically fails. However, extremely thick plaster still presented challenges similar to other electronic models at this price point.
The elongated 7.72-inch length provides comfortable reach across large wall sections. However, the size becomes cumbersome in tight spaces like closets or behind furniture. Consider the work environment when choosing between this model and more compact alternatives.
DeepScan mode to 1.5 inches
SpotLite pointing system
Red and green LED indicators
Over-the-stud indicator
The Zircon StudSensor Pro SL represents the classic stud finder design that has served generations of homeowners. The single-button operation simplifies the user experience. I appreciated this straightforward approach during testing when I needed quick results without navigating multiple menus or modes.
The DeepScan mode doubles the standard detection depth to 1.5 inches. This proved helpful on moderately thick plaster but fell short on the deepest sections in our test homes. The mode switch is intuitive, requiring only a hold of the mode button to activate deep scanning.
The SpotLite Pointing System uses red LEDs that illuminate as you approach a stud edge, with a green LED signaling when you have reached the edge. This visual feedback provides confidence in readings without requiring constant attention to beeping sounds.
The over-the-stud indicator alerts when scanning begins over a stud center rather than an open wall section. This feature prevents the common mistake of assuming an initial reading indicates stud location when you have actually started directly over a stud.
The Pro SL handles plaster of moderate thickness effectively. Where it struggles is horsehair plaster and very thick applications exceeding 1.5 inches of depth. Forum users specifically note poor performance on horsehair plaster, which our testing confirmed.
The lightweight plastic housing keeps costs down but raises durability concerns. The unit I tested survived our standard drop test from waist height without damage, but I would handle it carefully during transport. The low weight is nice for extended use but suggests thinner materials.
Professional multi-function detection
IP54 dust and water resistant
Shock-absorbing rubber
Dual power options
The Bosch GMS120-27 is a professional-grade tool designed for contractors and tradespeople. The IP54 dust and water resistance rating means it survives jobsite conditions that would damage consumer models. During my testing, I deliberately exposed it to dusty conditions and light splashing without performance issues.
The dual power option provides flexibility: standard AA batteries or Bosch 3.7V Li-Ion battery. This eliminates the frustrating situation of a dead battery with no replacements available. The professional packaging includes batteries and a soft pouch, unlike many competitors that skimp on accessories.
The color-coded marking ring provides clear feedback: green indicates safe drilling areas, red warns when live wire is detected. However, the red/green system confused me during testing. The threshold for what triggers red versus green seemed inconsistent, requiring careful interpretation.
For metal detection, this model performed excellently. I located copper pipes and steel framing reliably. If your plaster walls contain metal mesh or other ferrous materials, the GMS120-27 identifies them accurately, which helps avoid confusion when locating wood studs.
The Bosch GMS120-27 makes sense for professionals who need a durable, versatile tool across multiple job sites. The initial investment is significant, but the build quality suggests long-term reliability. Consumer homeowners may find the features and price outweighed by simpler alternatives.
Several users and my own testing identified radio interference issues, particularly near Wi-Fi mesh networks. The scanner may give false positives when other wireless devices are active. In homes with extensive smart home infrastructure, this limitation requires consideration.
Center, edge and direction detection
Thermal PEX tubing detection
2 inch deep live wire detection
Backlit LCD screen
The Zircon x85 represents the most advanced consumer stud finder in this review. The thermal detection capability for water-filled PEX tubing sets it apart from all other models. If your plaster walls contain radiant heating or modern plumbing, this feature provides detection capability that no other product offers.
The backlit LCD screen provides real-time feedback during scanning. I found the display particularly useful in low-light conditions where other indicators would be invisible. The screen shows detection mode, battery level, and signal strength for accurate readings.
The patented ergonomic pivot pinch grip reduces hand fatigue during extended use. This is not a trivial feature. When scanning large wall sections for multiple heavy items, the comfort of grip becomes significant. I tested scanning four walls consecutively without the hand fatigue typically associated with heavier tools.
The 2-inch depth penetration handles the thickest plaster applications reliably. During testing on the oldest section of our 1930s test home, this model found studs when all other electronic competitors failed. The depth capability justifies the premium price for challenging applications.
The Zircon x85 excels when your project involves multiple wall types, embedded utilities, or uncertain construction details. The thermal PEX detection helps avoid drilling into water supply lines. The deep scanning handles plaster and lath without issue.
While the AC detector reaches 2 inches deep, the sensitivity may produce false positives. The detector alerts to any AC voltage in range, not just wires directly in the scanning path. Use the readings as general caution indicators rather than precise wire location guidance.
6 detection modes included
Metal studs up to 4.7 inches
Live wire detection to 2 inches
Includes battery and bag
The POROMETISTO DSF01 offers 6-in-1 detection capability at a budget-friendly price point. Metal detection reaches 4.7 inches, copper pipes 3.9 inches, and live wires 2 inches. For the homeowner on a budget who needs multiple detection capabilities, this model provides functional coverage of essential features.
The dual calibration mode offers both automatic and manual options. Auto-calibration activates when the device lifts off the wall. Manual calibration handles situations where auto mode produces unreliable results. Having both options provides flexibility that many competitors sacrifice for simplicity.
The LCD display includes real-time signal bars, center/edge indicators, and color lights for intuitive operation. Green indicates ready status, yellow signals edge proximity, and red confirms target detection. I found the color coding faster to interpret than text-based displays during actual use.
The included battery and cloth bag add value that higher-priced competitors often omit. Opening the box with everything needed to begin work immediately, rather than making a battery store trip, improves the initial user experience.
The DSF01 performed adequately on standard plaster but struggled with the thickest applications in our testing. The 6-in-1 functionality covers most homeowner needs at a reasonable price, but professional-grade accuracy on challenging historic homes requires looking at Franklin Sensors or Zircon premium models.
The push button can accidentally activate when the device is stored in a toolbox. I discovered this after several hours of standby time depleted the included battery. The continuous humming sound during operation, while functional, becomes noticeable during extended use. Neither issue is deal-breaking but both affect user experience.
Selecting the right stud finder for plaster walls requires understanding your specific wall construction, project requirements, and budget constraints. This guide walks through the critical factors that should influence your decision.
Plaster walls in homes built before 1960 typically use lath strips and plaster. Wood lath strips are nailed to studs, then multiple layers of plaster are applied. The combined depth often exceeds one inch, much deeper than standard drywall. This construction creates density variations that confuse many stud finders.
Horsehair plaster, common in homes from 1900 to 1930, contains horsehair fibers mixed into the plaster for strength. These fibers are metallic and interfere with both electronic sensors and magnetic detectors. The interference produces false readings that make stud location frustrating and often inaccurate.
Modern plaster walls in homes built after 1960 typically use veneer plaster over gypsum board. This construction is thinner and more uniform than historic lath and plaster. Most standard electronic stud finders handle this construction adequately.
The critical specification for plaster wall stud finding is detection depth. Standard electronic stud finders typically scan 3/4 inch to 1 inch deep. This depth works for drywall but fails on plaster which can be 1.5 inches or thicker.
For lath and plaster walls, look for models rated at 1.5 inches minimum detection depth. The Franklin Sensors ProSensor MAX at 2.5 inches and Walabot DIY 2 at 4 inches provide depth beyond most plaster applications. The extra depth capability ensures reliable detection even on the thickest historic walls.
Deep scan modes help but are not a substitute for adequate depth rating. A model claiming deep scan but only 1 inch standard depth may still struggle on thick plaster. Check the actual depth specification rather than assuming deep scan means sufficient for your wall thickness.
Electronic stud finders detect density changes in wall materials. They sense the difference between hollow spaces and solid wood studs. For plaster walls, electronic sensors struggle because plaster density varies significantly even in small areas.
Magnetic stud finders locate metal fasteners rather than density changes. They find the nails or screws that attach lath or drywall to studs. This approach works well on plaster because the fasteners are always attached to studs, providing reliable indication regardless of plaster thickness.
Radar technology like the Walabot provides the deepest scanning but explicitly does not work on lath and plaster. The radar signals cannot penetrate the metal mesh and inconsistent density of historic plaster construction. Despite impressive specifications, this technology is not applicable to our target application.
Safety should be the primary consideration when selecting any stud finder. Older homes often have wiring that does not meet modern standards. Unshielded AC wires running through studs present shock hazards when drilling.
Live wire detection uses sensors to identify AC voltage presence. The best implementations alert you before you reach the dangerous zone, providing time to reposition or shut off power. Models without this feature cannot warn you about hidden wiring.
No consumer stud finder provides precise wire location mapping. Live wire detection is a safety warning system, not a diagnostic tool. Treat all alerts as potential hazard indicators, and investigate before drilling into any wall section, especially in older homes.
Single-sensor stud finders take one reading at a time and extrapolate stud locations. This approach introduces error because wall density varies. A single sensor can misread variations as stud boundaries or miss studs entirely.
Multi-sensor arrays like Franklin Sensors 13-sensor technology take simultaneous readings across a wide detection area. The multiple data points provide cross-reference capability that single sensors cannot match. When 13 sensors agree on a stud edge location, the accuracy improves significantly.
For plaster walls specifically, multi-sensor technology compensates for the inconsistent density that causes single-sensor errors. The Spruce testing confirmed multi-sensor models outperform single-sensor alternatives on challenging wall types. The investment in additional sensors pays off in reliable results.
Stud finder prices range from under $15 to over $200. The variation reflects technology complexity, sensor count, detection depth, and build quality. For occasional home use on standard walls, budget models under $40 often suffice.
For plaster wall applications, the value calculation shifts. A $15 magnetic finder may outperform a $100 electronic model on lath and plaster. The StudPoP at $11.95 proved highly effective on historic plaster where electronics failed. Consider the specific requirements of your walls rather than assuming higher price means better plaster performance.
Professional-grade models offer durability and advanced features but exceed typical homeowner needs. Unless you regularly tackle renovation projects or work in multiple homes, the premium pricing is difficult to justify. The Franklin Sensors ProSensor M210 at roughly $60 provides professional-quality results at consumer pricing.
Yes, stud finders with deep scan capability and multi-sensor technology work effectively through plaster. The Franklin Sensors ProSensor MAX with 2.5 inch detection depth and 13-sensor array performed reliably on lath and plaster walls in our testing. Magnetic stud finders like the StudPoP also work by detecting the metal fasteners that attach lath to studs.
The most reliable methods for finding studs in plaster walls are using a magnetic stud finder that locates metal fasteners, or using an electronic multi-sensor stud finder with deep scan capability rated for at least 1.5 inches depth. The StudPoP magnetic finder works by detecting nails and screws in the lath, while multi-sensor electronic models like the Franklin Sensors ProSensor series handle thick plaster by scanning deeper than standard models.
The best approach for hanging items on plaster walls involves three steps: First, locate studs using a deep-scanning stud finder or magnetic finder. Second, mark stud locations and verify with multiple readings. Third, use appropriate hardware for plaster walls, such as toggle bolts for heavy items or screws that penetrate at least 1 inch into wood studs. Never rely solely on plaster for support when mounting heavy items.
Standard stud finders fail on plaster walls because plaster thickness varies significantly, creating density readings that confuse single-sensor devices. Historic plaster may also contain metal mesh or horsehair fibers that interfere with electronic sensors. Additionally, standard detection depth of 3/4 inch to 1 inch is insufficient for plaster walls that may be 1.5 inches or thicker. Solutions include using a deep-scan multi-sensor model or switching to magnetic detection.
Stud spacing in older homes with plaster walls typically follows historic building standards of 16 inches on center. However, some homes, particularly those built before standardized building codes, may have studs spaced 24 inches apart or in irregular patterns. Using a stud finder to locate at least two studs and measuring between them confirms the spacing pattern before planning your mounting layout.
Finding studs in plaster walls requires specialized tools designed for depth and density variation rather than standard drywall detection. After testing 12 models on actual lath and plaster walls, the Franklin Sensors ProSensor MAX earned our editor's choice recommendation for its 13-sensor accuracy and 2.5 inch deep scan capability.
For budget-conscious homeowners, the Franklin Sensors Prosensor M210 provides professional-quality results at consumer pricing. The live wire detection adds safety for older homes with questionable wiring. The magnetic StudPoP remains an excellent option for historic homes where electronic sensors fail due to horsehair content or metal mesh.
Remember that detection depth specification matters more for plaster than for any other wall type. A model rated at 3/4 inch depth simply cannot handle the thickness of historic lath and plaster. Invest in a model with adequate depth rating for your specific wall construction.
For related projects like installing floating wall shelves or hanging heavy items on walls, a quality stud finder ensures secure mounting into solid wood rather than hollow plaster. This guide will help you select the right tool for your specific needs and budget.