Are you looking for a reliable and efficient way to secure your plywood panels? Look no further than plywood clips. These small, yet powerful fasteners provide the necessary 1/8 inch space between plywood panels, as recommended by the American Plywood Association. By using plywood clips, you can ensure that your panels are evenly spaced and properly supported, resulting in a level and structurally sound plane.
At Fastening Specialists, we understand that choosing the right fastener can be overwhelming. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know which one is the best fit for your project. That’s why we are proud to offer a wide selection of plywood clips, in various sizes and gauges, to meet your specific needs. As a trusted wholesale distributor for over 65 years, we have the expertise and knowledge to help you choose the perfect fastening solution for your project. Trust the specialists for all your fastening needs.
Understanding Plywood Clips
Purpose and Function of Plywood Clips
Plywood clips, also known as H-clips or panel edge clips, are small metal brackets that play an essential role in various construction projects. These clips are used to connect and support plywood panels and reduce the spacing of the framing members.
The primary function of plywood clips is to improve the load distribution and increase the effective stiffness of the roof and floor deck. By providing suggested spacing between panels, these clips help to prevent buckling and sagging. They also help to reduce the amount of nailing required, which can save time and money on the job.
Plywood clips are typically made of galvanized steel, which makes them durable and resistant to corrosion. They come in different sizes and shapes to accommodate different panel thicknesses and framing configurations.
Types of Plywood Clips
There are several types of plywood clips available on the market, each designed for a specific application. The most common types include:
- H-clips: These are the most basic type of plywood clip, and they are used to connect two panels at the center of a framing member. H-clips are typically made of 18-20 gauge steel and are 0.040 inches thick.
- Panel edge clips: These clips are used to support the edges of the plywood panels and provide additional strength and stability. They are placed between adjacent wood structural sheathing panels at a location between supporting joists or trusses and/or rafters.
Installation of Plywood Sheathing Clips
Proper Placement and Positioning
Before installing plywood sheathing clips, it is important to ensure that the plywood panels are properly positioned. The panels should be centered on the framing and positioned perpendicular to the framing member. The clips should be placed at the edges of the plywood panels and should be positioned so that they are flush with the top of the panel.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
- Begin by installing the first row of plywood panels. Make sure that the panels are properly positioned and centered on the framing.
- Install the first row of plywood sheathing clips along the edge of the first panel. The clips should be spaced evenly along the edge of the panel, with one clip approximately every 16 inches.
- Slide the bottom edge of the next plywood panel into the channel of the installed plywood clips. Make sure that the panel is properly positioned and centered on the framing.
- Secure the plywood panel to the framing using standard fastening measures, such as nails or screws.
- Install the next row of plywood sheathing clips along the edge of the second panel, and repeat the process until all rows of plywood panels are installed.
Plywood Clips and Roof Sheathing
When it comes to roof sheathing, plywood clips play a crucial role in ensuring a level plane and addressing unsupported sheathing edges.
Ensuring a Level Plane
Plywood clips are used to brace unsupported panel edges when sheathing meets edge-to-edge without a rafter for support. They provide the recommended 1/8-inch space between plywood panels as per the American Plywood Association. This space helps to prevent buckling and warping of the panels, ensuring a level plane for the roof.
When installing plywood clips, it is essential to choose the right size clip as per the panel thickness. For instance, if you are using 1/2-inch plywood, you can consider the PSCL 1/2 20-Gauge Galvanized Panel Sheathing Clip, while the PSCL 7/16 20-Gauge Galvanized Panel Sheathing Clip is ideal for 7/16-inch plywood.
Addressing Unsupported Sheathing Edges
Plywood clips are also used to address unsupported sheathing edges. For instance, when a panel edge falls between two rafters, it becomes unsupported, leading to deflection of the panel edges between the framing members. In such cases, plywood clips are inserted over the edges of the adjacent plywood panels to help reduce deflection, stiffen the plywood, and provide support to the unsupported edge.
Technical Specifications
Material and Durability Considerations
When it comes to plywood clips, the material and durability considerations are critical. The PSCL Panel Sheathing Clip from Simpson Strong-Tie is a popular choice for bracing unsupported sheathing edges when sheathing meets edge to edge without a rafter for support. The clip is made of galvanized steel, which offers excellent resistance to corrosion and rust. The MiTek 5/8″ Steel Plywood Clips are another option to consider. They are made of steel and feature embossed dimples to provide a 1/8″ gap. The materials used in the construction of these clips ensure that they are durable and long-lasting.
Support Spacing and Panel Thickness
The support spacing and panel thickness are also important factors to consider when selecting plywood clips. According to the APA Engineered Wood Construction Guide, edge support clips should be used at the edges of panels and at intermediate supports when the span of the panel exceeds 32 times the thickness of the panel. The guide also recommends a 1/8-inch space between panel edge and end joints to allow for expansion and shrinkage of the panels. The PSCL Panel Sheathing Clip from Simpson Strong-Tie provides a 1/8″ gap to address shrinkage and expansion of roof sheathing. The Steel Plywood/Sheathing Clip from ClarkDietrich is available in different sizes to accommodate different panel thicknesses.
Purchasing and Availability
When it comes to purchasing plywood clips, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, you want to ensure that the clips you purchase are the correct size and gauge for your project. This will help to ensure that they are strong enough to hold the plywood in place, while also providing the necessary gap to allow for expansion and contraction.
Local Stores and Online Pricing
One option for purchasing plywood clips is to visit your local hardware store. Stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot carry a variety of clips in different sizes and gauges. However, availability may vary by location, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead to ensure that they have the clips you need in stock.
Another option is to purchase plywood clips online. Online retailers like Amazon and Fastening Specialists offer a wide variety of clips at competitive prices. Plus, you can easily compare prices and read reviews from other customers to ensure that you’re getting the best deal.
Promotions and Stated Offers
It’s also worth checking for any promotions or stated offers when purchasing plywood clips. Lowe’s, for example, reserves the right to revoke any stated offer and to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions including after an order has been submitted. Therefore, it’s important to double-check pricing and availability before making a purchase.
The team at fastening specialists provides advice and best use-cases, but always check with local building codes and engineers for correct usage instructions.