Installing OSB subfloor, NAILS or SCREWS?

I’m installing OSB sheets over an old subfloor in a 3 unit building in Brooklyn. All three floors of the building will be covered. I will then put tongue and groove hard wood floor over this. The question is what should I use to fasten this subfloor to the old subfloor made of wood strips? 1.Some kind of screws with a screw gun and glue? Or 2.Use a nail gun with a compressor shooting some kind of framing nails?  I’m gonna place special paper between the finished floor and subfloor. I want to do it all correct to avoid squeeky floors in the future. Thanks for any advice.

nancy sullivqn

in Carpenters and Woodworkers 13 years and 4 months ago

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Rick | 13 years and 4 months ago

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You’re going to have to spend extra time using screws and glue ( liguid nail ) to keep the old subfloor from squeaking. If the old floor has any bounce to it, over time it will squeek. Once you lay your finish floor on top, you will be stuck with what you have done. There is no short cut if you want good results.

jockdeboeraia | 13 years and 4 months ago

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Glue and screw or it will squeak over time and screw the old subfloor down as well. I just did it in my house and it is worth the time and effort.

stevecym | 13 years and 4 months ago

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do not use a nail gun or any sort of finishing nails to put this down.  Use the subfloor nails with the rings on them.  Now, OSB may not raise like some woods if it get wet, but the ring shank nails will help hold it and keep the wood tight so it does not rub and squeek later.  sub floor adhesive will help.  when I say nails with rings, I do not mean twist shank nails.  I tell you this by experience. Steve

nancy sullivqn | 13 years and 4 months ago

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Very usefull info, so the answer is Yes I need to use screws or the Tetragrip is a good option as well. Thanks much Clifton, much appreciated.

Aodrafting | 13 years and 4 months ago

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You can also use the “TetraGrip” Subfloor Fasteners which is a screw that is installed with a nail gun. Look into that. I know time and cost is a factor but weight the options.

nancy sullivqn | 13 years and 4 months ago

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This sounds like it will work, but with 3000 Sq foot of flooring, is it not much faster to use a nail gun? perhaps finishing nails with a groove on them to hold? thanks much for your wisdom.

Aodrafting | 13 years and 4 months ago

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First I would inspect the existing subflooring for cracks, dips, squeaks and repair as needed. Install new OSB with glue and screws, stagger the sheets and make sure you don’t line up joints with the existing subflooring. Good Luck.