What Is A Furring Strip? Types Of Furring Strips
What Is A Furring Strip?
Furring strips are thin pieces of wood or other material that are attached to a structure to level or elevate the surface, create space for insulation, level or resurface walls or ceilings, or increase the beam of a wooden ship.
They are typically 1 x 2 or 1 x 3 inches in size and can be attached perpendicular to studs or joists or vertically against an existing wall.
The spacing between the strips depends on the type of finishing material, with wider spacing being used for heavy boards and closely spaced strips being needed for thin panelling or plaster.
Metal furring strips, also known as “hat channels,” are often used in commercial projects or in areas where fire-proof supporting elements are required by code.
Furring is also used to support roof materials, but it is now less common and has been replaced by plywood in many cases.
Drywall does not require furring because of its strength, but it may still be used in remodeling work to fill out uneven areas or add space for insulation.
Types Of Furring Strips
Furring strips are an important component of many construction projects, as they provide a level of insulation and protection while also helping to secure other materials. There are two main types of furring strips: Hat channel-shaped and Z-channel shaped.
Hat channel furring strips are shaped like a hat and are commonly used in the real estate industry because of their heat-resistant properties.
Z-channel furring strips are also commonly used, especially in residential home improvement projects, due to their versatility and the various fastening methods they can accommodate.
Uses Of Furring Strips
Furring strips are thin pieces of wood or metal that can be used in a variety of construction projects, both inside and outside of a building.
They are used to create a level surface on which other flat materials can be attached and to provide a supportive structure for attaching wood, paneling, or plaster to a wall or ceiling.
They can also be used to create an air space between a plaster wall and a masonry wall, to install insulation in walls to prevent dampness and mold growth, and to level out surfaces for installing bathtubs and tiled showers.
In addition, furring strips can be used as anchors for drywall and to smooth out dents in walls or cinder blocks. Metal furring strips provide more insulation than wooden ones.
Furring Strip Spacing
To attach wall panels to a wall furring strips can be used in a similar way to wall studs. The wood strapping should be installed with a spacing of 16 inches similar to the spacing of standard 2×4 studs.
To mark the locations for the furring strips, measure and mark the bottom and top of the wall every 16 inches. Then draw vertical lines connecting the marks on the top and bottom of the wall. These lines will serve as guides for attaching the furring strips.
How To Install Furring Strips
Furring a wall involves attaching thin strips of lumber to the existing wall to create a surface for finish materials. It is a simple process that is cheaper than traditional framing. When attaching furring strips to concrete or insulation, you can follow these steps:
- Place a pressure-treated 2-by-4 piece of wood in the corner where the foam and floor meet, and cover it with a strong adhesive. Repeat with another board next to the first one to cover the length of the room.
- Use a power drill or hammer drill to make angled holes spaced about 16 inches apart and 1 ½ inches deep in the top of the board and into the concrete wall.
- Drive 3-inch fluted nails into the pilot holes and concrete using a sledgehammer.
- Cut two furring strips to the distance between one of the boards, and cover one side with a tough adhesive. Press it onto the foam insulation.
- Drill 1/8-inch pilot holes through the furring strip, insulation, and concrete wall, and hammer them into the pilot holes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, furring strips are great for wall and ceiling applications where you need extra support for drywall, insulation, or other materials. They provide a sturdy base for these materials and can help extend the life of your walls or ceilings.
Furring strips come in a variety of widths, lengths and materials to fit any project you may have. Be sure to choose the right type of strip for your job and install it correctly for maximum protection.
