Furring, Furring Strips

Furring or the use of furring strips (sometimes misspelled “firring”) are narrow strips of wood that are attached to a wall or ceiling in order to make a true plane on which to attach or strap surface materials. To “fur” then,  means to build out a wall or ceiling in order to create a level or plumb a horizontal or vertical surface. See photos.

• Furring strips are made from wood, although steel and metal furring is often used by builders
• You’ll usually use furring strip dimensions of 1″ x 2″ or 1″ x 3″, although actual measurements are 3/4″ x 1 1/2″ and 3/4″ x 2 1/2″ respectively
• Wall furring can be used for attaching panels, trim or gypsum board (dry wall)
• Ceiling furring can be used for placing and securing drywall or acoustic tiles
• Furring can make a wall level by inserting shims between the furring strips and joists
• Furring strips can be placed one on top of the other (criss cross fashion) if extra room is needed or the ceiling is irregular, i.e. in a ceiling with pipes or electrical boxes hanging down
• Concrete and brick walls can use “z furring”, which allows for easier application of insulation and wall board
• Furring strips can be attached with either nails or screws