If you're shopping Dodge Hangers for the first time, the product lineup might feel a little overwhelming. Two of the most commonly compared products are the Dodge Hanger Bottom (DHB) and the Dodge Hanger Top Leveler (DHTL). They look similar at a glance, but they serve very different purposes. Here's a straightforward breakdown to help you pick the right one for your project.
The Dodge Hanger Bottom: No Drop Installation
The Dodge Hanger Bottom is part of the No Drop System. That means it's designed to install your starter row of wall sheathing or siding flush with — or even with — the bottom of the mudsill. There's no overhang below the foundation wall.
You'll use the DHB when you want a clean, flush installation at the base of the wall. It inserts between the mudsill and the top of the foundation wall, locking your sheathing at exactly the right height. It's a great choice when your foundation is level and you don't need the material to drop below the sill.
The Dodge Hanger Top Leveler: Drop System
The Dodge Hanger Top Leveler is part of the Drop System, and it's built for situations where you need the starter row to hang approximately 1 inch below the mudsill. This is a common requirement when you want the sheathing to create a weather barrier that extends slightly past the top of the foundation.
The DHTL is also a lifesaver when your foundation isn't perfectly level (and let's be honest — most foundations aren't). You simply snap a chalk line at the desired height, align the DHTL to that line, and install. The result is a perfectly level starter row, even if the foundation itself isn't.
Another bonus: the Top Leveler can be used on roof rafter tail-ends to install roof decking flush or with a specified hang-off — making it a versatile piece of hardware for more than just walls.
How to Decide
Ask yourself two questions: Do you need the sheathing to drop below the mudsill? And is your foundation level?
If the answer to both is no — go with the Dodge Hanger Bottom. Simple, fast, flush.
If you need a drop or you're working with an out-of-level foundation — the Top Leveler is your best friend. It gives you the flexibility to snap a line and install to it, no matter what the foundation is doing.
Both products are available in multiple saddle widths to match your sheathing thickness, so make sure you select the right size for the material you're installing.
Final Word
There's no universal right answer here — it all comes down to your specific project conditions. The good news is that both options are easy to install, built to last, and designed to make your job a lot easier. When in doubt, take a look at your foundation, decide whether you need a drop, and let that guide your choice.