Benefits and uses of packers and shims
A shim also known as a packer or leveller is used in construction for levelling or filling up space between objects such as aligning window & door frames or to level scaffolding and construction barriers.. They play an important role in providing a gap in a joint or supporting an object and provide a permanent solution. Shims and packers are designed to be flexible so they can be screwed, stacked, drilled, nailed and cut.
Packers used to be a simple do-it-yourself wood shim from building waste. However you can now choose from a whole range of plastic and metal shim products to enhance your quality of work. Interested in learning more about the different types of packers and shims, then read on, so you can purchase in confidence knowing that you have the correct shim for your project.
Key Benefits Of Shims and Packers
A shim, packer or what you may know as a spacer, is a thin item used to fill or uphold small gaps or spaces between objects. Shims are typically used in order to support, and help make adjustments for a better fit, or to provide a level surface.
At Speedy Fixings, we supply a wide range of packers and shims for all kinds of applications, from metal shims to plastic shims and even horseshoe packers. Discover all the different types of packers and shims available below.
All about Plastic Shims
Plastic shims and packers are an important everyday building accessory. However, your plastic shim selection is important and can sometimes determine the success of the work. Plastic shims are lighter than metal shims and will not rot, deform or rust. Plastic shims offer flexibility as they can be easily stacked to fill precise gaps and can also be cut to the exact size needed.
Plastic shims can be used to level and adjust surfaces, from aligning kitchen cabinets to levelling wonky toilets. These shims can also be used for spacing and aligning tiles, packing panels for storage and external cladding applications.
Since plastic shims are resistant to water, these are a great choice for use in a wet environment.
Horseshoe Shaped Plastic Packers
Plastic horseshoe shims, also known as plastic u shims, feature a horseshoe design and are great for lightweight applications such as installing glass or spacing and aligning tiles. The horseshoe design allows for any excess to be easily snapped off. Some of our horseshoe shims include Assorted Standard U Shims Pack of 120, Double Snap Wedge Shims Pack of 25 and Precision Wedge Shim Pack of 50.
Plastic Rectangular Shape Shims
These shims feature a rectangular shape and are ideal for precise levelling and non-slip stacking. Popular items include the Assorted Flat Packer 100 x 28 (20 of each size) and Precision Wedge Shims pack of 50.
Hi-Load Plastic Shims
Hi-Load plastic shims are an ideal cost effective alternative to the heavier steel packers. Manufactured from polycarbonate and polyamide (nylons), which is stronger than regular polypropylene and polystyrene. Hi-load packers are designed to withstand high-impact loads up to 200Kn without breaking or deforming.
Available in square plastic hi-load square packers 70mm x 70mm x 5mm and horseshoe Plastic Hi-Load Square Horseshoe Packer.
All About Metal Shims
Metal shims are suitable for aligning production and packaging equipment as these feature a high composite strength. Some metal shims, such as stainless steel shims, are corrosion resistant, being ideal for outdoor spaces. Our metal shims are constructed of mild steel, pre-galvanised mild steel, spun galvanised mild steel and stainless steel. Our shims can be manufactured in grade A4-316 stainless steel as well as grade 304-A2 stainless steel.
Square Metal Shims
Our square-shaped shims Steel square shims and packers are available in mild steel, galvanised steel and stainless steel. We supply both square and square horseshoe steel shims, including mild steel square shims, spun galvanised mild steel square packers, stainless 304-a2 square horseshoe shims and pre-galvanised steel square horseshoe packers. These are ideal to fill gaps in scaffolding and other structures, offering added support and providing levelling of surfaces.
Horseshoe Metal Shims
Horseshoe metal shims are manufactured in house. These are available as pre-galvanised steel horseshoe shims, galvanised steel square horseshoe packers, spun-galvanised horseshoe shims and stainless steel square horseshoe shims, They can offer support for levelling windows and door frames as well as ceiling batons and joinery packing.
Custom Shims
In addition to our off-the-shelf packers and shims, we can manufacture, at our UK factory, specials to your specification. Our custom shim range includes custom plain square packers, custom square horseshoe packers, custom rectangular horseshoe packers, custom plain rectangular packers, custom double horseshoe packers, and many more. To request a price, please contact us detailing your requirements. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call 01206 793100 or email [email protected].