Reduce squeaky floors later by paying attention when your subfloor goes down.
Look for Adhesive on Every Joist
I’d ask your builder if they plan to use subfloor adhesive on every floor joist before the subfloor goes down.
You may see traditional liquid adhesive or a foam-style adhesive. Either can work.
The important part is creating that bond between the subfloor and framing instead of relying on fasteners alone.
It All Comes Down to the Fasteners
Once you know they’re using adhesive, I’d ask what they’re fastening the subfloor with.
Adhesive with smooth-shank nails is a decent option (but not the best). You’re getting the benefit of the adhesive, but smooth nails don’t have as much grip in the wood.
Adhesive with ring-shank nails is better. Those little rings along the nail help it grip the wood and resist backing out, which helps keep the subfloor tight against the joists.
Adhesive with screws would be my first choice. Screws provide excellent holding power and help pull the subfloor tight to the framing.
You definitely want subfloor adhesive with all three.
Walk the Floors Before They’re Covered
Before your finished flooring goes down, walk around the house and listen for squeaks.
If you hear one, point it out.
Now is the time to tighten up an area where the subfloor is moving. I’d much rather deal with it while the subfloor is exposed than after hardwood, tile, or carpet goes down.
Check It During Framing
This is an easy one to check during your build.
Look for adhesive on the joists before the subfloor goes down and ask what fasteners they’re using.
The goal is to reduce movement between the joists and subfloor now so you’re less likely to hear those annoying squeaks years from now.
This is exactly why I created the Ultimate Home Building Checklist. There are hundreds of little details like this that are easy to check during construction and much harder to fix once everything gets covered up.
