Shims and levelling components carry load and hold alignment in structural framing, flooring and load-bearing elements, so the quality of the installation decides whether a structure stays level over its service life. A poorly seated or incorrectly sized piece can shift under load, crack finishes or pull an element out of alignment.
Correct installation follows three stages: assessing the gap and load, placing the component on a clean, dry surface, then securing and inspecting the result.
What are Levelling Materials?
Levelling materials are thin pieces of material used to fill gaps, level surfaces and support loads across a wide range of construction applications. They come in various shapes and materials, plastic and metal, and can be adjusted or stacked to suit your specific tolerances and site conditions.
Used correctly, they align structural elements and maintain even weight distribution over time.
Installing Plastic and Metal Components: Step-by-Step
1. Plan and Assess
- Inspect the area to see where support or adjustment is needed.
- Choose a levelling material and shape for the load and environmental conditions, for example, choose corrosion-resistant plastic in wet areas or denser materials where high compression strength is required.
2. Prepare and Place
- Ensure all surfaces are clean and dry to avoid slippage.
- Insert adjustment supports or positioning blocks with precision, and tap gently until firmly in place. This avoids unwanted movement under load.
3. Secure and Inspect
- Fix with appropriate adhesives, screws or fixings where required.
- Once in place, double-check the surface is level and the element is properly aligned.
- Document any adjustments made, especially for compliance and future maintenance.
Need advice on correct placement or materials? Call PP Shim on (02) 4646 1166 for technical support.
What Shim to Choose for Your Project
Five factors decide which shim suits the job:
- Size: choose a thickness that fills the gap without compromising the finish or sealant performance.
- Shape and fit: horseshoe and U-shaped shims fit around bolts and fittings, while rectangular pieces suit slab edges and wall joints.
- Load requirements: check the rated performance, particularly in structural or load-bearing areas.
- Material durability: plastic suits wet or external environments, and metal shims suit heavy-duty or high-temperature conditions.
- Ease of use: pre-cut, colour-coded shims speed up site adjustments and reduce inspection time.
For load-bearing gaps, our steel packing shims transfer load between members, while our custom shims cover non-standard sizes cut to your drawing.
Why Installation Matters
Well-installed levelling components prevent structural stress, movement, and maintain levels over time. They’re also part of meeting building code and engineering spec requirements, especially on larger or regulated projects.
Need help choosing the right adjustment support for your application or which product will meet the standards? Contact us for our expert assistance in selecting the right product for your project.
Adjustable Support Components FAQs
What Material Component Should I Use?
Plastic levelling materials are best for most jobs due to their moisture and rot resistance, metal adjustment supports for heavy load areas. Both must be Australian compliant for structural safety.
How Do I Install Levelling Materials or Adjustment Supports?
Start with a site assessment to find gaps or misalignments. Clean all surfaces before placing support elements snugly for even load distribution. Fix with suitable fasteners or adhesives and document for future inspections.
Can I Stack Levelling Materials or Adjustment Supports?
Yes, these components can be stacked or nested to match the exact gap. Ensure they are stable and stacking follows engineering guidelines for load-bearing capacity and structural integrity.
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