A shim is a thin wedge or pad used to fill small gaps, align parts, or level surfaces. It helps bring things like frames, furniture, and fixtures into better position without major adjustments.

• Materials: Common options include wood, plastic, rubber, composite, and flat metal shim stock.
• Shapes: Tapered wedges are great for leveling; flat strips maintain a consistent gap.
• Sizes: Wood shims are often 6–16 inches long; plastic and rubber pieces are typically smaller for fine tuning.
• Packs: Sold in assorted pack sizes for quick fixes or larger projects.

Choosing the right style depends on the job, environment, and how precise you need to be. Results can vary based on materials and conditions.

Shims are used to level, align, and stabilize items around the home and jobsite. They can help reduce wobble and create even gaps where small adjustments are needed.

• Doors & Windows: Plumb and square frames during installation.
• Cabinets & Counters: Level bases before fastening for a cleaner fit.
• Furniture & Appliances: Stop tables, chairs, and refrigerators from rocking.
• Toilets & Fixtures: Steady bases on uneven floors.
• Decks & Outdoor Projects: Adjust components where moisture resistance matters.

They’re typically a temporary or semi-permanent aid, and can be trimmed to fit. For heavy structural loads or code-related work, consider products rated for that purpose and consult a qualified professional.

Both fill gaps, but they’re used a bit differently.

• Shim: Often a tapered wedge or adjustable pad you slide in to fine-tune height, level, or alignment. Great for dialing in tight fits during installation.
• Spacer: Usually a uniform thickness piece that preserves a consistent gap or offset between parts, like under flooring or behind panels.
• Adjustability: Shims can be stacked or trimmed to tweak fit; spacers are typically set-and-forget.
• Materials: Shims come in wood, plastic, rubber, composite; spacers are commonly plastic or rubber.

Pick shims for on-the-spot leveling and spacers for consistent separation. For load-critical applications, check product specs and local codes.

Leveling an entire house or foundation is complex and typically handled by licensed professionals. Incorrect methods can cause damage or safety risks.

For minor interior adjustments inside a home, shims can help:

• Door/Window Frames: Check plumb with a level, insert opposing wood shims where gaps appear, then fasten through the shims and trim flush.
• Cabinets & Furniture: Slide in plastic or composite leveling shims under low corners until stable.

These steps can improve alignment, but results vary by project. Avoid excessive stacking, and don’t attempt structural lifting with basic shims. For floors, framing, or foundation issues, consult a qualified contractor and follow local building codes.

Match the shim material to your project and environment:

• Wood Shims: Ideal for interior carpentry (doors, windows, trim). Easy to cut and sand; best where it stays dry.
• Plastic/Composite Shims: Good for moisture-prone spots (bathrooms, decks). Rigid versions support heavier items; flexible versions help fine-tune small wobbles.
• Rubber Shims: Anti-slip pads that grip floors and furniture, useful for stabilizing tables, chairs, and grills.
• Size & Length: Longer wedges offer more contact area; smaller pads fit tight spaces.
• Packs: Choose small packs for quick fixes or bulk for larger jobs.

You can filter by material, length, and pack size online, then choose pickup or delivery for convenience.