There’s nothing quite as frustrating as floorboards that creak when you’re walking on them —especially when it’s a brand-new home! Whether you’re a homeowner or a contractor, creaking floorboards are a real headache.
So, what causes timber floors to creak? Why is there so much movement in upstairs flooring? And most importantly—how can you prevent it?
Let’s break it down.
Top Reasons Your Timber Floor Is Squeaking
Creaking floors are usually a sign that something’s not quite right beneath the surface. Here are the most common culprits:
1. Using the Wrong Adhesive
Not all glues are ideal for flooring. Regular construction adhesives dry hard and brittle—great for strength, but have zero flexibility. As the floor moves (which it inevitably will), the glue cracks and the creaking starts.
What to use instead:
Opt for an elastic-bond adhesive like Sikabond T55J or the newer Siegelbond PRO95. These polyurethane and MS polymer adhesives flex with movement, permanent, elastic bond that compensates for the movement but at the same time never lets go.
2. Incorrect Fixings
Secret nailing with flooring staples is far more secure than top nailing. Staples go in at an angle and are less likely to pull out over time.
On edges where you have to top nail, use no smaller than a 14-gauge nail (ND Series are common but T-Flooring nails are the best. Lighter 16 or 18-gauge fixout nails are just too thin for the job and you’ll inevitably get callbacks.
3. Poor Subfloor Preparation
Even if your timber floor is installed perfectly, problems can arise if the timber battens underneath aren’t properly secured. If they’re only nailed down, they can shift and cause movement.
Solution: Use Countersunk Floor Batten Anchors. Drill a 6.5mm hole through the batten into the concrete. The anchor’s bent-leg design grips the concrete securely, preventing movement.
Special Considerations for First-Floor Additions
Upstairs floors are especially prone to squeaking due to increased movement. Here’s what to watch for:
● Avoid nailing particle board flooring—use screws instead. Nails will eventually pull out.
● Use collated screw systems like Quickdrive for faster, more ergonomic installation.
● Stick with elastic adhesives like T55J or PRO95 to absorb shock and reduce squeaks.
Can You Eliminate Squeaks Completely?
Not entirely. Environmental factors, building movement, and material expansion can all contribute to squeaks. But by following the above best practices, you can reduce the risk by more than half—and avoid those dreaded callbacks.
