However, wood shims are not ideal for jobs that may be exposed to water, inclement weather, or excess heat. They absorb water, which can cause them to warp and rot. And, of course, wood is flammable, so they should not be used where they could catch a spark. Metal Shims Taking the squeaks out of interior flooring by inserting the shims between subflooring and joists from below Second, choose the proper material. If you’re installing a shim that may be exposed to water often or supporting something heavy, don’t use a wooden shim. Instead, use a plastic one, which will hold up better over time. A well-placed shim can pull a canted (misaligned) door frame to plumb and level as it should be. It’s also a fairly easy DIY task. Tapping in a shim is far less daunting than installing a new window or toilet. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Shims You don't have permission to access "http://www.homedepot.com/p/8-in-Wood-Shims-12-Piece-per-Bundle-WSSHW08/300723328" on this server.

Keep reading to learn more about how to use a shim from the home repair and maintenance experts at Mr. Handyman. Types of ShimsSince they are used in many different ways, there are many types of shims. The most common include the following: If you need to cut the plastic shim at a point other than a score line, a multi-tool can be used to trim off a plastic shim. If you have to decide between a score line that's too far inward or too far outward, it's usually best to snap off the shim at the inward point. You may have come across a few of these thinly sliced wedges among the tools in your garage. While they may appear to be scraps from past projects, shims are an important element for a variety of DIY fixes and fittings.

Once the door or window is plumb and level, drive a nail or screw from the casing, directly through the shims and into the framing to secure it. Once the window or door is firmly seated and nailed, use a utility knife to score the excess shim length and break it off. Advantages of Using Shims Shims must always be fixed in place. Shims that are not fastened may eventually drop out of the materials, leaving the materials unsupported. Plastic shims are more expensive than wood, and cannot be welded like metal, which can make them the wrong fit depending on the application’s requirements. However, plastic’s physical properties make these shims the product of choice where fast-paced construction is desired. Wooden shims are a great way to bridge the gaps when installing trim, doors, windows, or cabinetry projects. They also help to level floors, tables, or chairs. Plastic shims work great for toilets, bathrooms, subfloors, or exterior elements. Despite the best measurements and care, once a door or window is put into place, it’s unlikely to be perfectly square. This is especially true when dealing with an older home. Rather than agonizing over cutting a new frame or trying to nail in an absolutely precise opening, shims are used to make the final tweaks, so everything fits perfectly.Third, always be sure to secure your shim. Unsecured shims can slip or drop from their position, putting your materials at risk. Alternative Uses for Shims The first step in choosing the right shim is understanding what you’re using it for. The shim you choose for trim work will differ from the one you use for a bathtub installation. Wood is the most common material for a shim. They are often cut from cedar or pine and well-suited for almost any interior adjustment. Plastic shims are another popular choice, given that they are water and rot-resistant, making them ideal for plumbing or exterior adjustments. How to Choose the Right Shim