4 Uses of a Furring Strip

A furring strip is basically a long, thin strip that is commonly made from either wood or metal. A furring strip is typically used to level a surface in order to finish it. You can use it on projects where you are working with paneling, masonry, insulation, plaster or wood, to create a stable and supportive surface to apply the next material or finish to. Furring strips come in a fire resistant material, to ensure that building codes are being met and adhered to. To get a better idea of how, when or why to use a furring strip, check out the information below.

1.  Needed Air Space 

When applying wood finish, it is important to leave an air space between the masonry walls and the finish layer. This is a stable technique used to hold the wood, or other finish material, away from the wall. To create this type of air space, furring strips need to be nailed or affixed to the masonry walls before adding the finish.

2. Insulation Installation

Furring strips are also commonly used when it comes to insulating the inside of masonry walls in homes and buildings. Typically they are installed on the masonry walls and then the insulation will fit between them. Much of the time, especially when you are working with drywall, gypsum board is nailed or attached over the insulation onto the strips. To ensure that this method of insulation is effective, flat furring is commonly used. This type of furring strip does not penetrate or move past the layer of insulation and helps to avoid a thermal short. The method of applying furring strips is not just for heating though. This technique also helps to keep moisture out and away from the inside wall.

3. Provide Supportive Structure

Another use for furring strips, and probably the most common one, is providing a level and supported structure when finishing ceilings and walls. The furring strips used on ceilings are there to even out the surface and provide a structure to attach or clip ceiling tiles to. When it comes to walls, furring strips have a similar job. They are nailed or screwed to the masonry wall. Then, once the furring strips are completely secure, you can add the next layer of paneling. The furring strips provide a level surface that you can attach the finish to. This way, if you have trouble with uneven studs or surfaces, a furring strip can be added to level it out a little bit.

4. Showers

Showers are another great place to use furring strips. If you have a shower with a shower pan that you are remodeling or doing work on, strips may come in handy for the backer board. Similar to masonry walls, furring strips can be used when the studs do not form an even plane and you need to make up for it. Then the backer board can be installed over a level surface.