Furring Channel
Furring channels, often known as "hat channels" are a key element when using any sort of clip in your wall or ceiling. A quality channel, of the right gauge for your project, is as critical to your project's success as any other element. |
Resilient isolation systems that utilize resilient clips require a quality Hat Channel to function. Technically, the Hat Channel is known as a ⅞" Drywall Furring Channel. For our purposes, we want:
- Gauge: 25 Gauge
- Height: ⅞"
- Acceptable width: 2 ½", 2 9/16" and 2 ⅝"
- Unacceptable width: 2 ¾"+
Since sound clip systems use clips are spaced 24" and 48" apart, there are far fewer contact points between the drywall and the steel or wood framing. This mechanical isolation helps to limit the direct conduction of vibration from the drywall to the studs. The second important feature of the resilient clip and channel array is the introduction of resilience. Because the channel is attached every 48" by a resilient clip, the 48" span is allowed to flex slightly. This flex is very important to the systems overall performance. 20 Gauge is generally too rigid unless it is required to support extra weight, as in the case for ceiling installations.
In light-frame construction, furring strips are long thin strips of wood or metal used to make backing surfaces to support the finished surfaces in a room. Furring refers to the backing surface, the process of installing it, and may also refer to the strips themselves.