What material is typically used for shims?

Shims are commonly made from wood because they provide a versatile and effective way to fill gaps or adjust spacing in various construction applications. Wood shims are easily cut and shaped to the desired thickness, making them an ideal choice for leveling doors, windows, and other structural elements. Additionally, wood is abundant, cost-effective, and readily available, which makes it a preferred material among carpenters and builders.

While metal and plastic can also be used for specific shimming applications, they are not as prevalent as wood in general carpentry tasks. Metal shims are typically found in industrial settings due to their durability and strength but can be more cumbersome to work with. Plastic shims may be used for moisture-resistant applications, but they often lack the robustness needed for heavy loads compared to wooden shims. Glass is not typically used for shims due to its fragility and unsuitable properties for construction leveling and support.