Metal furring system
The term 'metal furring system', or MF system, refers to a non-structural metal attachment that is used to hold a finish material, often used as a technique for creating a seamless plaster internal finish with a void behind for the installation of services, with plasterboard fixed directly to the concealed metal furrings. It can be used as an alternative to traditional timber batten construction for walls and ceilings.
In metal-framed construction, the furring pieces are long, light gauge materials (usually 25 or 20 ga.) of various shapes, often used to hold insulation or other construction items between materials. Due to the light gauge, a certain amount of rigidity is provided by the bends that create the cross section shapes.
A ‘hat’-shaped bent metal is the most common type of metal furring. This is used to secure the outer layer of material where it would be difficult to insert attachments such as screws and nails.
A ‘z’ furring is attached to one surface at the bottom flange, accepting an outer layer of material to be attached to the other flange. This is often used in commercial and residential buildings as a spacer, allowing an existing wall surface to be insulated, or allowing horizontal electrical or plumbing components to be installed and covered with a finish material.
A variety of fastening methods can be used with a metal furring system. Screws are the most common and easiest, although when the furring strip is attached directly to concrete, masonry or structural steel, more specialised fasteners are used such as sleeve type anchors, course thread anchors, power actuated pin fasteners, and so on.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.
CIOB Client Guide (2nd edition) March 2025
Free download covering statutory dutyholder roles under the Building Safety Act and much more.