What Supports NORX Cladding? Plan the Substructure

The Role of Furring Strips in NORX Cladding Installation

Furring strips create the necessary air gap and mounting surface for NORX Cladding. This gap is vital for managing moisture, allowing for ventilation, and ensuring proper drainage behind the cladding panels. For exterior applications, this forms a key part of a rainscreen assembly. Furring strips also provide a consistent plane for the cladding, accommodating any minor irregularities in the underlying wall.

NORX Cladding utilizes a hidden clip fastening system, which attaches directly to these furring strips. The choice of furring material typically depends on the substrate, local building practices, and desired durability. Common options include treated lumber, composite materials, or metal channels. Ensure the furring material is dimensionally stable and suitable for exterior exposure if used on a facade.

Understanding the Hidden Clip Fastening System

NORX Cladding is designed for installation using a hidden clip system. This method provides a clean, fastener-free appearance on the finished surface of the boards. The clips are engineered to securely hold the cladding panels to the furring strips while allowing for material expansion and contraction.

Each NORX collection, whether composite or PVC, is designed to work with this specific hidden clip. It is important to use the manufacturer-recommended clips to ensure proper engagement with the board profiles and to maintain the system's integrity. The clips are typically screwed into the furring strips at specified intervals, which dictates the layout and spacing of the furring.

Substrate Considerations for Exterior Walls

For exterior wall applications, the substrate is the structural layer behind the furring strips. This can be sheathing, masonry, or another structural wall material. The substrate must be sound, stable, and capable of securely holding the fasteners for the furring strips. Before installing furring, ensure the substrate is properly prepared, including any necessary weather-resistive barriers (WRB) and flashing details around openings.

The type of substrate will influence the choice of fasteners used to attach the furring strips. For example, wood sheathing may use screws or nails, while masonry might require specific anchors. Always verify the substrate's condition and ensure it is free from moisture issues or structural deficiencies before proceeding with the substructure installation.

Substructure for Interior Walls, Ceilings, and Soffits

NORX Cladding is suitable for interior feature walls, ceilings, and soffits, using the same board profiles and hidden clip system. For these applications, the substructure requirements are similar but may have different considerations regarding moisture management and ventilation.

For interior walls and ceilings, furring strips are typically attached directly to studs, joists, or an existing finished surface like drywall. The primary function of the furring here is to provide a level mounting surface and the necessary spacing for the hidden clips. Ensure the underlying structure can support the weight of the cladding and furring, and that the furring is securely attached to prevent movement.

Worked Example: Planning Furring for a 10-Foot Wall Section

Let's consider a hypothetical 10-foot (120-inch) wide interior wall section that is 8 feet (96 inches) tall, where NORX Cladding will be installed horizontally. Assume the NORX Cladding boards are 6 inches wide (nominal) and require furring strips spaced at a maximum of 16 inches on center (O.C.) for horizontal installation. The hidden clips need to engage the furring at each board.

For horizontal cladding, the furring strips run vertically. This means 8 vertical furring strips are required (one at each end and then every 16 inches). Each strip would be approximately 96 inches (8 feet) long. Therefore, you would need 8 pieces of 1x3 or 2x2 furring material, each 8 feet long. If the furring material typically comes in 8-foot lengths, this would be 8 pieces purchased. This arrangement ensures that every cladding board, regardless of its specific width, will be supported by a furring strip at least every 16 inches, allowing for proper clip attachment.

This example simplifies for illustration; always refer to the specific NORX installation guidelines for exact furring spacing, especially for exterior applications where rainscreen principles and additional structural considerations apply.

Before you order

• Confirm whether the application is interior or exterior.
• Verify the existing substrate's condition and structural integrity.
• Determine the required furring material (e.g., treated lumber, composite, metal).
• Establish the furring strip spacing based on NORX installation guidelines and cladding orientation.
• Plan for proper ventilation and drainage if installing on an exterior wall (rainscreen).
• Select appropriate fasteners for attaching furring to the substrate.
• Ensure the hidden clip system is compatible with the chosen NORX Cladding profile.
• Account for any openings (windows, doors) and plan for perimeter furring/blocking.
• Consult local building codes and manufacturer specifications.

Confirm installation details, approved uses and warranty terms in the current instructions for the exact product and profile. Your installer should verify the substrate, structure and applicable project requirements.

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