Walls and Ceilings - Rehanging over acoustic ceiling

I am going to be replacing the ceiling in a old house. The acoustic tile ceiling was put up over furring strips directly attached to the ceiling joist. There is no ceiling under the tiles, just blown in insulation. I am planning on screwing furring strips along the ceiling joist, then rehanging and texturing the ceiling. My question is: Can I use 3/8 rock, since it won't have any insulation about it or should I use 1/2? The joist are on 16" centers. Thanks! :)

Recommendations are generally for 5/8" rock on the ceiling to prevent sagging. Some places have codes that require this.

My understanding from some quick reseach using google search, is that Va has adopted a statewide bldg code based on the BOCA national codes. Might want to check out this site http://www.permitplace.com/links/demo2.asp?DBQueryValues=51,0,0

So if you have to pull any permits for this job, they're going to require a 30 min fire rated sheetrock for that ceiling. This can be either 5/8" type X fire code rock or 1/2" type C fire code rock. If you have to go that way, have your wheaties that moring you're gonna hang the lid, you're gonna need the strength! ;)

Even if you're not pulling permits, I'd recommend 1/2" rock at a minimum for any lid, 3/8" will sag over a relatively short period of time, 5 yrs or so. You plan for the furring strips sounds good, be sure to fasten it securely, 5 screws or nails per joist evenly spaced. Good luck.