How Different Trades Use Shims for Construction

When it comes to construction, precision is everything. A level surface, a square frame, and a flush fit are all essential to the structural integrity and longevity of the build. However, several factors may prevent you from having the perfect groundwork for your project. That's where shims come in. These small components are indispensable across nearly every trade. At Deslauriers, we provide premium-quality shims that professionals across industries rely on every day.

Construction doesn't always run on a 9-to-5 schedule. Emergencies happen, pours get pushed up, and sites change. That's why Deslauriers offers 24/7 online ordering so you can get the materials you need when you need them.

Whether it's a last-minute rebar cap order, concrete testing tools, or column forms before the next morning's pour, you can log on from your phone or laptop and place your order anytime. No waiting for callbacks, emails, or business hours.

Shims are not a niche product – they're used in various industries for innumerable projects. Below are a few of the industries that make use of our wide variety of shims, from aluminum to plastic to wood.

• Precast Concrete: Shims help ensure panels and structures are aligned and stable before final placement. Our high-strength plastic shims resist compression and are ideal for supporting heavy concrete elements during setup.
• Tilt-Up Construction: Shims provide temporary or permanent support during the tilt-up process, ensuring wall panels are properly spaced and leveled before grouting.
• Glass & Glazing: In glazing, small gaps can make a big difference. Our shims offer non-corrosive, moisture-resistant support for aligning and leveling glass panels, frames, and curtain wall systems.
• DIY and Residential: Shims aren't just for large-scale commercial jobs. Homeowners and small contractors use them for everything from leveling appliances to securing floorboards. You don't have to be a professional to make use of our top-of-the-line product.

We recognize that many different trades make use of shims for a variety of projects, which is why we offer numerous sizes and materials, as well as the ability to craft custom shims for whatever you're building.

• Masonry: Shims help masons level blocks, align stone facades, and maintain consistent spacing. Our weather-resistant shims won't degrade under mortar or moisture.
• HVAC & Plumbing: Installers rely on shims to level HVAC units, support pipe runs, and ensure consistent pitch for drainage. Our durable plastic options won't rot or compress like wood under wet conditions.
• Flooring: Shims ensure a level base for hardwood, laminate, and tile installation on uneven subfloors. Their stability prevents future shifting or squeaking, so even an old home with a settled foundation can have a level floor.
• Carpentry & Cabinetry: When precision is critical, like in cabinetry and trim work, shims provide the micro-adjustments needed for clean lines and solid construction. Our mildew-resistant wood shims are perfect for ensuring a flush fit.
• Window & Door Installation: Correct spacing and plumb alignment are essential for proper operation. Our shims simplify the installation process while ensuring long-term performance and weather sealing.

We care about the quality of our product and the integrity of your finished project, so we work hard to ensure we're offering you the best shims available. We ensure our products are always ready to ship, so you don't have to wait to get your project underway.

Made in the USA

All of our shims are proudly manufactured in the United States, ensuring quality, consistency, and compliance with industry standards. Even our custom shims are produced in Illinois, keeping your timeline on track even for complicated builds.

Always in Stock

Our shims are always in stock and ready to ship year-round. We maintain quick turnaround times all 12 months of the year to make sure you get what you need when you need it.

Wide Variety

No two jobs are the same, and all types of shims have their use. We offer plastic, aluminum, and wood shims in various shapes, sizes, and thicknesses to meet the unique requirements of every trade.

Choosing the proper shim is important for the integrity and longevity of your build. Several job-specific factors determine which shim is right for your project.

Load Requirements

If you're supporting a heavy concrete panel, you'll need high-compression plastic or steel shims. For lighter applications, our standard plastic shims are more than enough. Wood is great for filling cracks in trim or door frames but easily splinters under heavy weight.

Job Type

Outdoor projects require a material that can withstand heavy weathering without rusting or rotting, making our plastic Econ-o-Shims one of the best options, as they can withstand microorganisms, ground chemicals, and liquids.

Metal shims are the choice for heavy-duty projects like bridges and large machinery. They experience minimal compression and, when treated, resist corrosion.

Wood shims are often used in construction due to their versatility and ability to be easily shaped. They are often used in door and window installations, where their ability to absorb vibrations makes for a smooth user experience.

Environmental Conditions

Exposure to moisture, chemicals, or extreme temperatures can impact shim performance. Plastic shims hold up best to moisture, although properly treated metal shims are also an option if the job calls for a stronger material.

Deslauriers offers solutions built to last in all jobs and environments.

At Deslauriers, we've spent decades perfecting the details that others overlook. From large-scale contractors to weekend DIYers, customers trust us because we deliver high-performance products with consistency and reliability.

Our wide variety of shims means we always have a product in stock to suit your needs. Explore our full shim selection and see how the right choice can elevate your work.