What are Shims in Foundation Repair? Janesville, WI
If you’re searching the internet for foundation repair solutions, you may have come across the word ‘shim’. If you’re wondering what this word means and how it applies to repairing foundations, read on.
What is a Shim?
Shims are a common sight in the construction industry in general. They have various applications in construction and not just in foundation repair. Shims are thin pieces of material that are inserted under some other part in order to help achieve some level or to ensure a proper fit. They can also be used to align surfaces properly. In repairing foundations, shims are used to fill gaps, adjust, level, or ensure proper fit and thus maximize support and alignment. 
In foundation repair, shims are often used for piers and pilings as well as other underpinning support below the slab of the foundation. Shims are inserted between these elements to level, adjust or improve the fit of the elements.
There are different types of shims that may be used in repairing foundations:
Crawl space foundations
These foundations primarily feature wooden tapered shims in homes with a crawlspace. As the name suggests, they are tapered or wedge-shaped. These shims are made of wood. They are used in crawlspace foundations to provide a better fit.
Shims for slab foundations
There are various types of shims used in slab foundations. Concrete block shims are some of the most common types of shims used in these foundations. The concrete block shims may be placed on the pier to bridge the gap between the underside of the concrete slab and the pier. Smaller shims may also be used to fill the gap and provide a better fit and more support.
There are several other materials that can be used as shims for concrete slab foundations. These include plastic and steel. Plastic is not commonly used because of its lack of strength and durability. Stainless steel shims are preferable to plastic shims. However, they are not readily available. They are therefore not commonly used for foundation repair.
Safe and Effective Foundation Repair
If you’re wondering what type of shims to use in the repair of your foundation, it is advisable to talk to a foundation repair expert in your area. Your contractor will not only help you identify the best material for the shims but also help you source them in your local market.
Our repair team consists of technicians with years of experience in foundation repair. We have experience working with different types of foundations. We will work to provide you with the best results and ensure that you can enjoy them for many years to come.
Get in touch with us to discuss your foundation repair needs. We offer potential customers the opportunity to consult with our team for free. Our technicians will provide you with a free quote for our suggested repair solution. Get in touch with us now to learn more about our services and how we can help with the repair of your foundation.
Contact the Professionals at Accurate Basement Repair Today! 414-744-6900
In Southeast Wisconsin, we have the only Nationally Certified Structural Repair Specialist on staff and two Nationally Certified Waterproofing Specialists on staff.
Accurate Basement Repair is a member of the NAWSRC (National Association of Waterproofing and Structural Repair Contractors), NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry), the Basement Health Association, the BBB (Better Business Bureau), WAHI (Wisconsin Association of Home Inspectors), BIASEW (Building Inspectors Association of South Eastern Wisconsin) and Angie’s List.
We are proud to say that we have an A+ rating with the BBB and we won two Super Service Awards from Angie’s List in 2010 – one for foundation repair and the other for basement waterproofing. Our professional and knowledgeable staff will educate you on various self-help procedures to save money on your foundation and waterproofing needs. We are NOT a franchise. Our dedicated team works year round! We use high quality and well maintained equipment which will provide the lowest impact to your landscaping. Our team of trustworthy and competent staff attends regular training, seminars and/or trade shows, so they are able stay up-to-date on everything that is happening in the foundation restoration and waterproofing industry. We provide outstanding customer service throughout the entire repair process – from estimate to completion. And last, but not least… Accurate Basement Repair is the #1 referred foundation repair company by professional engineers, basement consultants, realtors, municipal building inspectors, home inspectors, lenders, property management companies and most importantly, our past customers.
