H clips provide additional stiffness between bearing points for the unsupported edges of wood panel plywood or osb roof sheathing along with the necessary 1 8 gap for expansion as shown below illustrated on a bag of simpson h clips.
H clips required roof sheathing.
Table 2304 7 2 sheathing lumber minimum grade requirements.
Maximum 19 percent moisture content.
H clips do not prevent wooden panels from buckling or warping.
H clips also called panel edge clips are small steel devices that fit snugly between wood panels in order to provide them with edge support.
Sheathing should be a minimum of 19 32 inch thick.
Their size should match the thickness of the panels to which they are attached.
The typical thickness range for sheathing is 3 8 to 3 4 inch.
Never attach roof sheathing with staples.
Grip h clips are designed to make installing roof sheathing faster with better spacing.
8d ring shank nails should be used instead.
H clips for roof sheathing.
Some older h clips do not provide a built in gap.
Not always required but a good idea.
Full length expansion bar gives you superior alignment and perfect expansion gap.
In either case the cost of the job is reduced.
Reduce frustration of clips falling off or spearing edge of sheet.
H clips may also allow builders to use thinner sheathing than they otherwise would be permitted to use.
A builder who uses h clips may need fewer rafters to complete a project because the distance between them can be increased.
Installation details shall conform to sections 2304 7 1 and 2304 7 2 for floor and roof sheathing respectively.