Pipe Shoe & Saddle Shim Guide

Pipe shoes, saddles, and cradle supports require precise shimming to maintain proper pipe elevation and alignment. This guide covers shim placement techniques for all common pipe support types.

Types of Pipe Supports That Need Shimming

Pipe Shoes

Pipe shoes are welded to the pipe and rest on structural steel. Shims are placed between the shoe base plate and the support beam to achieve correct elevation.

Pipe Saddles

Saddle supports cradle the pipe from below. Shims adjust the saddle height to align the pipe with adjacent supports and maintain proper slope.

U-Bolt Supports

U-bolt clamps secure pipe to supports. Shim plates placed under the support adjust pipe elevation while the U-bolt holds the pipe in position.

Cradle Supports

Cradle supports distribute pipe weight across a curved surface. Shims between the cradle base and structural support set the correct pipe centerline elevation.

Shim Placement Best Practices

1. Always place shims on clean, flat surfaces
2. Stack shims with the largest on the bottom
3. Limit shim stacks to a maximum recommended height
4. Tack weld or secure shim stacks to prevent shifting
5. Record all shim details using ShimSheet for traceability

Track Pipe Support Shims with ShimSheet

ShimSheet lets you log shim details at every pipe shoe, saddle, and support location. Record thickness, material, quantity, and position from your mobile device.