What is drywall furring channel (hat channel)?
For high level soundproofing you need to employ some method of decoupling the framing from the drywall. This can be done by modifying the wall or ceiling framing, but decoupling is often accomplished through the use of Drywall Furring Channel with Soundproofing Clips (IB-1).
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Hat Channel is technically known as a 7/8” Drywall Furring Channel. For our purposes, we want:
- Gauge: 25 Gauge (for its flexibilty)
- Unacceptable Gauge: 20 - (too stiff)
- Required: Hemmed Long Edge
- Height: 7/8” (22.2 mm)
- Length: 10' and 12'
- Thickness: .0188” (.478mm)
- Designation Code: 087F125-18
- Acceptable Widths: 2 ½", 2 9/16” and 2 5/8"
- Unacceptable width: channel larger than 2 3/4" is out of spec and not to be used.
There are several manufacturers of Drywall Furring Channel and the specifications for them are defined by the Steel Stud Manufacturers Association The Steel Stud Manufacturers Association (SSMA).
How does a Resilient Soundproofing Clip system work?
It is important to review how a resilient sound clip system operates. Because the 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.
An important feature of the Soundproofing Clip and Drywall Furring 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 system's overall performance.
This is why it is important to use a quality 25 gauge Furring Channel. 20 gauge material is commonly available but is stiffer than we would prefer. 20 Gauge Furring Channel is not flexible enough.
