What is the size of the furring strips that are often above the roof joists in older homes?

Furring strips are typically used in the construction of walls and roofs to create a level surface for attaching drywall or other materials. In older homes, the size of furring strips often found above the roof joists is 1x2 inches. This size provides adequate support while still being manageable for installation and renovation purposes.

Using 1x2 inch strips allows for proper spacing and air circulation, which is crucial in preventing moisture problems that can lead to rot or other structural issues. This size strikes a balance between strength and weight, making it suitable for the applications found in older house designs. Alternatives like the larger sizes such as 2x2 or 2x4 would be more cumbersome and may not be necessary for the function that furring strips serve in this context.