Tips for Drywall Backing on Vaulted Ceilings

By Mark J. Donovan

QUESTION: Hi, I am looking for tips on drywall backing for vaulted ceilings.
Can you provide any advice?

ANSWER: Normally 1"x3" furring strips are nailed to the roof rafters/ceiling joists and the drywall is then fastened to them.

Furring strips help to provide a larger surface area for fastening the drywall to. Furring strips also help to ensure a more even ceiling and prevents the ceiling from cracking.

Furring strips should be installed on 16" centers, perpendicular to the roof rafters / ceiling joists.

Furring strips are also referred to as strapping.