How to fix a squeaky deck?

[Mestry1]

About 6 months ago, I decided to build a low-level deck over our concrete entertainment area approx. 80sqm.

Over the last few months, the deck has become very squeaky and in bouncy in some areas.

Unless there is a simple option, I believe a may have to lift up the decking boards, reinforce the frame work with more cross beams and add more underneath supports (its about 10mm off the ground). 

If so, should I....

1) Number all the decking boards, to ensure they go back where they came from? or does it not matter as long as they fit.

2) Do it in sections? or is it just as easy to lift them all up at the same time. 

3) Should I add foam between frame and decking board? 

4) Change from screws to nails? 

Any assistance is greatly appreciated. 

Ryan

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community Ryan (@Mestry1). It's wonderful to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about a squeaking deck.

It sounds like the squeaks and bounciness in your deck are likely due to inadequate support or movement in the framework. With your deck being only 10mm off the ground, that limited clearance could be contributing to the flexing of the joists, which results in squeaks and areas that feel bouncy. The best approach would be to address the framework rather than removing all the decking boards. Start by focusing on the sections where the squeaks or bounciness are most noticeable. 

It’s easier to lift and repair the deck in sections, so remove just a few boards in the affected areas. Once you’ve removed the decking, you can use a crowbar to lift the joists that are causing the issue. With the joist raised, insert plastic packers underneath to provide extra support and prevent further movement. Make sure the joists are securely lowered onto the packers, ensuring they are properly supported and won't shift again. You don’t need to lift all the decking boards; just focus on the sections with noticeable movement or squeaks. This method should help resolve the issue without having to pull up the entire deck.

As for the decking boards, it’s best to number them or keep track of where each one goes so they fit back in their original position. This will help maintain the overall aesthetic and ensure they align correctly. In terms of fastening, screws are preferable over nails for securing the boards, as they provide a more secure and long-lasting hold. There's no need to add foam between the frame and the decking boards, as this could complicate things without offering any real benefit. By focusing on reinforcing the joists and ensuring they are adequately supported, you should be able to fix the squeaks and the bounciness without having to completely dismantle the deck.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[Mestry1]

Hey Mitchell, 

Thank you for your prompt reply and insights, it's really appreciated. 

As for your approach, I totally agree. I believe it to be an issue with the frame work, in particular the support and will be tackling this over the weekend. 

My thoughts were, if I remove all the decking boards (without numbering) then it wouldn't matter how they were placed back on, provided that they fitted.

This way, I could address the whole frame at once vs doing it sections. 

[MitchellMc]

What is the decking board layout @Mestry1? Is it random lengths or all full lengths that span from one end of the deck to the other?

You are likely in a better position to judge the best approach than I am. If it's only bouncy in a few areas, I'd be removing and labelling those boards. Just remove enough next to a joist to gain access, if the whole deck is bouncy everywhere then it sounds like you have a large task on your hands and it might be beneficial to remove all the boards.

Mitchell

[Mestry1]

Thanks Mitchell.

They are all different lengths. I think I know what I need to do. 

Cheers for your help. 

Ryan