Furring Out Masonry Walls

"Furring out" is the process of building a wall inside another wall. In renovations, this often takes the form of a new 2x4 stud wall built adjacent to an existing exterior masonry wall (see photo). Furring out allows for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems to be run easily and also for insulation to be added to increase energy efficiency. Carefully consider the following implications as you are deciding whether to fur out the walls in your project:

You will need to drywall the new wall (even if the plaster on the existing exterior wall is in good condition)
You will need to install new window sills and casings because the new wall is thicker than the existing
You will need to remove and reinstall all the base moldings and trim
The room will be made smaller
You may need to move doors, switches, radiators, or other elements that are too close to the existing walls

Benefits include better energy efficiency, ease of installing new systems, you can provide a new flat wall surface, and you can cover damaged plaster easily. Carefully weigh the costs versus the benefits.