Foundation repair starts with choosing the perfect shim. These small, thin pieces of material are the unsung heroes of foundation stabilization. From concrete to metal, each type of shim has its own advantages and disadvantages. We’ll break down the benefits and drawbacks of each, so you can pick the right one for your foundation repair.

Imagine your home’s foundation as a delicate balance of forces. Foundation shims help maintain that balance by shoring up weaknesses, leveling out bumps, and adding stability. With so many shim options available, it’s essential to grasp the strengths and weaknesses of each to make an informed decision.

What Are Foundation Shims?

Foundation shims are thin pieces of material used to make slight adjustments between larger parts, including foundations. They’re inserted to fill gaps, level, and maximize alignment and support.

To repair a foundation, you need a solid foundation – literally. That’s where shims come in, making fine-tuned adjustments to keep everything stable.

Types of Foundation Shims

In the world of foundation shims, materials matter. Steel, wood, and plastic are all viable options, but the right choice depends on the specific demands of the job, including strength, durability, and budget.

Metal Foundation Shims

In the world of foundation repair, metal foundation shims, typically made from steel, have earned a reputation as a top pick. And for good reason – their impressive strength and durability make them a reliable solution for countless projects.

Metal foundation shims are known as the most durable solution in the world of foundation repair.

Pros of Steel Shims

  • Strength and Durability: Steel shims are strong enough to withstand even the toughest conditions and heavy loads.
  • Precision: Thin and flexible, steel shims allow for precise, stress-free adjustments.
  • Endurance: When properly coated, they withstand corrosion, ensuring a long-lasting performance.

Cons of Steel Shims

  • Cost: Steel is generally more expensive compared to other materials like wood or plastic.
  • Weight: The substantial weight of steel shims can make installation a chore. This is especially true when special equipment is required to haul them around.
  • Corrosion: If left unprotected, steel shims are prone to corrosion when they come into contact with moisture, compromising their structural integrity.

Wood Foundation Shims

Wooden shims have long been a trusted choice for foundation repair. Made from sturdy hardwoods like oak, they’ve proven themselves time and again in various foundation types and repair projects.

Wooden foundation shims are made from sturdy hardwoods like oak, and are effective in different foundation repair projects.

Pros of Wood Shims

  • Affordable: Compared to steel or plastic, wood is generally a more cost-effective option.
  • Versatile: Wooden shims are also lightweight and easy to custom-cut on-site, making them versatile and adaptable to different situations.
  • Strong: When used correctly, they offer the compression strength required to fine-tune the foundation and get it level.

Cons of Wood Shims

  • Vulnerability to Moisture: This can cause them to rot and decay over time. When exposed to damp conditions, untreated wood can deteriorate, compromising the structural integrity of the shim.
  • Compression: While they provide good compression strength, they may deform or compress under heavy loads more than steel shims in certain situations.
  • Flammable: Wood can catch fire easily, which could be a risk in some applications.

Plastic Foundation Shims

As foundation repair professionals seek reliable solutions, plastic shims have gained traction. The advantages they bring to the table, courtesy of their robust materials, have made them a popular choice.

Plastic foundation shims are known as reliable solutions due to their robust nature.

Pros of Plastic Shims

  • Moisture Resistant: Since plastic doesn’t absorb moisture or attract pests, it’s the go-to choice for wet or insect-prone areas. It outperforms wood in humid environments.
  • Convenient: Not only are they super light, but they’re also a snap to cut to size on-site.
  • Safe around Electricity: Because they don’t conduct electricity, you can use them with confidence around electrical wiring.

Cons of Plastic Shims

  • Prone to Deformation: Under intense pressure or temperature fluctuations, they can deform or shrink.
  • Sensitive to UV Exposure: If they’re crafted from inferior plastics, they can become brittle or break down when exposed to UV rays, which can compromise their performance.
  • Cost: They’re often pricier than wooden alternatives, although they’re generally more affordable than steel options.

FAQs

No. Typically, foundation shims will last a few years before needing replacement, unless the underlying cause of the foundation problems are addressed.

The ideal repair method depends on various factors, including the severity of damage and your budget. Using helical piers supported by shims is a good method for lasting repair.

There are various shim shapes to choose from, including horseshoe shims, tilt up shims, stack shims, and more.

Get The Best Solution for Your Foundation

Ultimately, the right choice for your foundation repair project will depend on your specific needs, budget, and the condition of your foundation. It’s essential to consult with a professional foundation repair specialist who can assess your situation and recommend the best course of action.

By taking the time to understand the pros and cons of each type of foundation shim and working with a trusted expert, you can ensure that your foundation is properly repaired and your home remains stable and secure for years to come.

At Crossroads Foundation Repair, we have teams of dedicated experts with years of extensive experience fixing homes with long-lasting solutions. No matter what problems you’re facing with your foundation, we help you figure out the right way to solve it– without breaking the bank.

Call us today for a FREE inspection.