Liam Carter
Furring strips are strips of metal or wood that create a support system for a finished wall material to be fastened to. They are typically 1″ x 2″ or 1″ x 3″ and can be installed either horizontally or vertically. When attaching furring strips to concrete, brick, or block walls, it is important to use a concrete anchor that will provide a strong and secure hold. The length of masonry nails required to attach furring strips depends on various factors, such as the type of wall, the size of the strip, and the weight and strength required. While some sources recommend using 1 1/2-inch nails, others suggest 1 1/4-inch nails. In some cases, 4d or 6d nails may be sufficient, while 8d nails may be too large. It is important to use the proper length and type of nail to ensure a secure and long-lasting installation.
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What You'll Learn
Using a masonry nail gun
Furring strips are thin strips of metal or wood that create a support system for a finished wall material to be fastened to. They are typically 1" x 2" or 1" x 3" and can be anchored to brick, block, or concrete either horizontally or vertically.
When attaching furring strips to concrete, brick, or block walls, it is important to use a concrete anchor that will provide a strong and secure hold. The spacing between the strips depends on the type of finishing material to be used.
To attach furring strips to concrete, brick, or block, you can use a masonry nail gun. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a masonry nail gun for this purpose:
First, determine the desired position of the furring strips and make exact measurements to ensure a secure wall covering. Then, using a hammer drill, drill holes using a carbide-tipped masonry bit. The holes should be drilled to a depth that is appropriate for the concrete screw diameter in use. Clear the holes of any debris using a vacuum or compressed air.
Next, insert concrete or masonry nails into the holes. You can use a nail gun for this step, but be aware that some types of nail guns may not work effectively with masonry nails. Some sources recommend using a powder-actuated nailer, a T-nailer, or a concrete nailer such as the Spit P800 or Hilti GX120. However, these tools may be too powerful for fixing furring strips, and there is a risk of bent nails, nail jams, and broken driver pins.
After inserting the nails, drive them flush to the surface of the wood using a framing hammer. Reinforce the wood-to-concrete bond by running a bead of construction adhesive along the bottom of the wood. Finally, attach the finishing material to the furring strips using the appropriate screws or tools as recommended by a walling expert.
It is important to prioritize safety when using a nail gun or any power tools. Always wear eye and hearing protection, and be cautious when using a hammer or other impact tools as they can cause nails or hammer heads to break off and fly through the air.
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Using masonry nails vs. concrete screws
Furring strips are thin strips of metal or wood that create a support system for a finished wall material to be fastened to. They are typically used in basements, which are usually made of solid concrete, cinder block, or brick, and thus require a fastener designed specifically for these materials.
When it comes to using masonry nails versus concrete screws, there are several factors to consider. Both are made of carbon steel, but concrete nails go through an additional heat treatment process, making them stronger than concrete screws. Concrete nails have a round flat head and a smooth shaft or a straight fluted/twilled fluted shaft, and they are best used when joining wood to a concrete surface, such as when finishing a basement. They are also cheaper than concrete nails and are less likely to break or bend.
However, concrete nails cannot be used to hang things like shelves, brackets, or frames because their shaft might bend and slide out of the hole. Concrete screws, on the other hand, have tighter spirals on the shaft, which gives them better holding power when driven into concrete. They are also self-tapping and can be used to hang shelves, brackets, or frames if anchors are used.
To use masonry nails to attach furring strips to concrete, you need to drill pilot holes using a hammer drill and a masonry bit that is the same diameter or slightly smaller than the nails. After drilling, vacuum away any dust from the holes and insert the masonry nails, driving them flush to the surface of the wood using a framing hammer.
To use concrete screws, you need to pre-drill holes using a hammer drill and the correct diameter carbide-tipped masonry bit for the concrete screw diameter. Drill the masonry hole 1/2 inch deeper than the fastener embedment and vacuum the holes to remove debris. Then, drive the concrete screws into the holes using an impact driver and nut driver, being careful not to over-torque to prevent stripping.
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How to avoid cracking the furring strips
Furring strips are long, thin strips of metal or wood that create a support system for a finished surface in a room. They are typically attached to concrete, brick, or block walls using concrete anchors or fasteners.
To avoid cracking the furring strips when attaching them to a wall, there are several methods you can use:
Pre-drill Holes
One way to prevent cracking is to pre-drill holes in the furring strips before screwing them to the wall. Use a hammer drill with a carbide-tipped masonry bit that corresponds to the diameter of the concrete screw. Drill the masonry hole slightly deeper than the fastener embedment to ensure a secure fit. After drilling, clear the holes of any debris using compressed air, a vacuum, or a wire brush. This method works well with most hardwoods, which can resist the forces of a concrete nail without splitting.
Stagger Anchors
To prevent the wood from splitting, it is important to stagger the anchors when installing them. Avoid placing the anchors in a straight line down the furring strip. This technique helps distribute the force evenly and reduces the likelihood of cracking.
Flatten Nail Points
If using nails, slightly flatten the points before hammering them into the wood. Place the head of each nail on a firm surface and gently tap the point a few times with a hammer. This process will cause the nail to cut through the wood fibres instead of splitting them, reducing the chances of cracking the furring strip.
Use Hardwood Flooring
Instead of using thin solid wood furring strips, opt for 3/4" hardwood flooring. Hardwood is more resistant to moisture and has better long-term durability. Gluing and nailing hardwood flooring to walls can result in a sturdy installation that lasts for decades without cracking.
Choose Alternative Materials
To avoid the challenges of working with wood, consider using galvanised pressed or cold-rolled steel furring strips. Steel strips can be bolted directly into concrete and will not crack or split. You can then screw plasterboard or drywall into the steel strips to create your desired wall surface.
By following these methods and choosing the appropriate materials, you can effectively avoid cracking furring strips during the installation process.
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Preparing the masonry wall
Before you begin the process of attaching furring strips to a masonry wall, there are a few preparatory steps to take. Firstly, ensure that the wall is clean and dry. Remove any loose debris, dust, or paint to provide a stable base for the furring strips. This step is crucial to prevent the growth of mould and other contaminants within the wall.
Next, you'll need to measure and mark the locations for the strips. Use a level to mark vertical lines on the wall where the furring strips will be attached. Typically, furring strips are installed vertically, as this is easier and can often add strength if they are allowed to rest on the ground. However, they can also be installed horizontally if desired.
After marking the positions of the furring strips, you'll need to cut them to the desired length. Typically, you'll want to cut them to match the height of the masonry wall. Once the strips are cut to size, you can move on to the next step of pre-drilling holes for the fasteners.
To fasten furring strips to a masonry wall, you'll need to use concrete anchors or masonry nails. If using concrete anchors, you'll first need to drill holes in the wall using a hammer drill and a carbide-tipped masonry bit. The holes should be drilled to a depth that is 1/2 inch deeper than the fastener embedment. Make sure to clear the holes of any masonry dust or debris using compressed air, a shop-vac, or a wire brush.
Now you're ready to begin the process of attaching the furring strips to the wall, which will be covered in the next section.
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Positioning the furring strips
Furring strips are used in carpentry, shelving, and general finish work to prepare an even surface for exterior or interior structural applications. They are typically made from wood or metal and are placed vertically against an existing wall surface to which the new finishing material will be attached.
When positioning the furring strips, it is important to determine the desired position and make exact measurements to ensure a secure wall covering. The spacing between the strips depends on the type of finishing material that will be used. For example, wider spacing is required for heavy boards that support ceramic tiles, while closer spacing is needed for thinner, lighter materials such as panelling. It is recommended to use a laser level line traced to the wall to ensure accurate positioning.
Before attaching the furring strips, it is crucial to pre-drill holes to prevent cracking and splitting. The holes should be drilled using a hammer drill with a carbide-tipped masonry bit, and the debris should be cleared using compressed air, a vacuum, or a wire brush. The type of concrete fastener used depends on the size, weight, and strength required for the application. Concrete screws, such as Tapcons, are commonly used as masonry fasteners and come in various diameters and materials, including stainless steel.
After drilling the holes, drive the screws into the holes using a standard drill until all the studs are firmly in place. It is important to stagger the anchors to prevent the wood from splitting. Finally, attach the finishing material to the furring strips using the appropriate screws and tools as recommended by a walling expert.
For concrete or insulation surfaces, a specific method involves using a pressure-treated 2-by-4 piece of wood and placing it in the corner where the foam and the floor meet, with no gaps between the rigid foam and the board. Apply a strong adhesive to the board, press it into place, and repeat the process with another board next to the first one.
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Frequently asked questions
4d cut nails are usually enough to hold a furring strip. 6d's are sometimes used, but 8d's are too big. Round masonry nails are also available in the same sizes and are easier to work with.
First, give your masonry wall a good cleaning to ensure there is no mould or other contaminants. Then, cut the furring strips to the correct length. Stand a strip at the end of the wall and drill pilot holes at 10-inch intervals. Tapcon screws are a popular choice for anchors, but you can also use concrete screws or concrete nails.
You can use a powder-actuated tool, such as a Hilti or Ramset gun, to join the furring strips to the wall. You can also use concrete screws or concrete anchors.
Furring strips can be made of metal or wood. Thin solid wood strips tend to break apart, so plywood is a better option. You can also use 3/4 hardwood flooring instead of furring strips.
