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Manufacturer Varies by Location H-Clip Plywood Sheathing Clips, 18-20 Ga Steel, 1/2", 7/16" and 5/8" Boxes
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Manufacturer Varies by Location H-Clip Plywood Sheathing Clips, 18-20 Ga Steel, 1/2", 7/16" and 5/8" Boxes
These plywood clips, also called H-clips or panel edge clips, are small steel brackets installed between unsupported edges of adjacent roof or floor sheathing panels to provide intermediate edge support and stiffen the deck. Made of roughly 18-20 gauge (0.040 in.) metal with embossed dimples that set a 1/8 in. gap, they are sold in boxes of 250 in 1/2", 7/16" and 5/8" panel thicknesses.
Key Features:
- Stiffens sheathing: Placed between unsupported panel edges to reduce support spacing and increase the effective stiffness of the roof or floor deck.
- Built-in panel gap: Embossed dimples provide a 1/8 in. gap between adjoining panel edges.
- Standard gauge steel: Clip thickness is normally between 18 and 20 gauge (about 0.040 in.).
- Improves load distribution: Improves load distribution between framing members, effectively reducing rafter or truss spacing requirements at panel edges.
- Allows expansion: Provides the suggested spacing between panel edges so panels can expand if they get wet during construction.
- Bulk box packaging: Sold by the box, with 250-count boxes in the 1/2" and 5/8" sizes.
Specifications Table:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Manufacturer Varies by Location |
| Sell unit | 1 box (250 clips in 1/2" and 5/8" sizes) |
| Product line | Plywood / panel edge clips (H-clips) |
| Available sizes | 1/2", 7/16", 5/8" (matched to sheathing thickness) |
| Material | Metal (smooth or galvanized steel) |
| Thickness | 18-20 gauge, approx. 0.040 in. |
| Panel gap | Embossed dimples provide 1/8 in. gap |
| Pack quantity | 250 per box (1/2" and 5/8" sizes; 7/16" box count not stated) |
| Intended use | Support unsupported edges of plywood/OSB roof and floor sheathing between framing members |
Coverage & How Much You Need:
One clip serves one pair of panel edges at each intermediate rafter/truss space. For 24 in. on-center framing plan roughly 2 clips per 8-ft panel edge pair, so a 250-count box typically handles around 120 panel edge pairs; count rafter bays per panel edge to size the job.
Fit and Compatibility:
Fits standard wood structural panel sheathing; select the clip size to match panel thickness (1/2", 7/16" or 5/8"). Installs between panel edges spanning framing at 16"-24" on center; framing spacing reductions must comply with your local code and panel ratings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: What is included in a box?
A: Boxes of clips in one size: 250 clips in the 1/2" and 5/8" boxes; confirm the 7/16" box count at ordering since it is not stated.
Q: Which size clip do I need?
A: Match the clip size to your sheathing thickness: 1/2", 7/16" or 5/8".
Q: How do I install them?
A: Slide the H-clip over the edges of two adjacent panels midway between rafters or trusses before the next row of sheathing is laid; the dimples set the 1/8 in. gap automatically.
Q: Why leave a 1/8 in. gap?
A: The gap allows panel expansion if the sheathing gets wet during construction, preventing buckling.
Q: Are they galvanized?
A: Plywood clips are commonly smooth or galvanized metal; verify the finish of the current stock before ordering for exposed applications.
Q: Do clips replace framing?
A: No, they support panel edges between framing members and improve load distribution, but they do not replace required framing spacing per code.
Expert Verdict — Reviewed by the SuperArbor Pro Desk
Use H-clips on every unsupported panel edge over 24 in. o.c. framing; they are cheap insurance against sagging, wavy roof lines between rafters. Pick the clip size to match panel thickness so the dimples set a true 1/8 in. gap. On roof decks always follow the panel span rating and local code; clips supplement, never substitute for, required framing. Install clips as you lay each course, before the adjacent panel goes down.
Metal clip edges can be sharp and roof-deck installation happens at height, so wear gloves and fall protection and keep fasteners and clips clear of the work area below.
Stock up on plywood H-clips in 1/2", 7/16" and 5/8" boxes and stiffen every sheathing edge on your next deck.
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