Creaky Deck Boards? Here’s How to Fix Them

There’s nothing quite like stepping onto your backyard deck with a fresh cup of coffee in hand—unless, of course, you’re met with a loud, drawn-out creak underfoot. That unwelcome sound can quickly kill the vibe. Whether your deck is brand new or has seen a few seasons, a creaking sound isn’t just annoying; it can signal underlying issues that warrant attention, such as the need for additional support.

Let’s break down why your deck might be creaking, how to fix it, and what you can do to prevent it from happening again. From wood to composite, count on Deck & Docks to have you covered!

Why Does My Deck Creak?

A creaky deck usually means something’s moving when it shouldn’t be. Decks are constantly exposed to shifting weather conditions, foot traffic, and natural settling. Over time—or sometimes right away—those factors can cause fasteners to loosen, boards to rub, and joints to groan, especially when you walk on them.

Loose Fasteners

Screws or nails that have loosened over time can allow boards to move against each other or the frame, creating that familiar creaking sound.

Wood Shrinkage

Pressure-treated (PT) lumber tends to shrink slightly as it dries out. Even a brand-new deck can creak if the boards were installed when they were wet, lack proper support, and have since dried, pulling away from the fasteners and shifting slightly under weight.

Board Friction

Boards that were installed too tightly together may rub as they expand and contract with humidity and temperature changes, making them prone to squeak.

Substructure Movement

Sometimes it’s not the decking boards themselves but the joists on the underside that are moving or flexing. If joists aren’t properly spaced or secured, the whole deck can groan with every step.

Incompatible Materials

With composite decking, improper fastening or unsupported spans can lead to movement and noise, especially if the materials are flexing more than they should.

…But Why Is My New Deck Creaky?

It seems counterintuitive, but even a brand-new deck can creak. If it was built with wet PT lumber (common with pressure-treated wood), the boards may shrink as they dry out, pulling against the screws or nails and causing movement.

Another culprit is improper fastener installation. If screws weren’t set correctly—too loose or not countersunk enough—the board can shift under pressure and it may require repair. 

With composite decks, creaking is more likely if there are gaps in the framing or improper joist spacing. Composite boards are more flexible than wood, so they need tighter joist spacing and special fasteners to prevent movement.

How to Fix a Creaky Deck

Finding a solution for a creaky deck depends on what’s causing the problem and how you maintain it. Below are the most effective methods, whether you’re dealing with wood or composite decking.

1. Tighten or Replace Fasteners

Start with the obvious: grab a drill and go over any visible screws or nails. Tighten loose screws or replace nails with deck screws, which hold better and are less likely to back out over time.

Pro Tip: Use screws designed specifically for decking. For composite, use the manufacturer-recommended fasteners to avoid voiding the warranty or damaging the board.

2. Add More Screws

If a board moves when you step on it—even if the existing screws are tight—you may need more fasteners. One screw on each joist might not be enough, so try two screws per joist, especially on wider boards.

3. Use Construction Adhesive

For boards that still creak even after tightening, apply a construction adhesive, such as Liquid Nails, between the board and the joist. Once applied and screwed down again, the adhesive will act like a cushion and hold things firmly in place.

Note: Perform this step only if you plan to remove and reattach the board—don’t simply smear it on top.

4. Shim the Gaps

If the creak is coming from friction between the deck board and the joist below, a thin shim can help eliminate movement. Wood or plastic shims work best—just be sure they’re rated for outdoor use and won’t rot or compress.

5. Replace Warped or Damaged Boards

If a board is warped or cracked, it’s often easier to replace it entirely than try to fix the creak. Especially on older decks, some boards may have outlived their usefulness and could be causing more issues than they’re worth.

Fixes for Composite vs. Pressure-Treated Decks

What about different kinds of deck-building materials? Different decking materials call for different solutions. Here’s a little cheatsheet to help you sort out the differences: 

Composite Decking

• Use the right fasteners: Composite decks require special hidden fasteners or screws with color-matching caps.
• Check joist spacing: Composite boards need tighter spacing (often 12” on center) to prevent sagging and squeaking.
• Address flexing: If your deck feels bouncy or the boards are flexing, you may need to reinforce the frame or add blocking between joists.

Pressure-Treated Lumber

• Watch for shrinkage: If boards were installed wet, expect movement and plan to re-secure them once they dry.
• Add screws as needed: PT lumber handles screws well, so adding extras is a simple fix.
• Inspect for rot or splits: Older PT decks can develop hidden rot, leading to creaks and soft spots.

Tips For Preventing Future Creaks

Once you’ve handled the current noise, there are a few steps you can take to prevent creaking from coming back:

Build with Dry Lumber

If you’re starting from scratch, build with kiln-dried PT lumber (KDAT) or allow your wet boards to dry before installation. This helps avoid post-installation shrinkage and shifting.

Use High-Quality Fasteners

Cheap screws rust, break, or back out over time. Invest in stainless steel or coated deck screws meant for your material.

Mind the Spacing

Allow proper spacing between boards during installation and ensure that any gaps are filled appropriately. Too tight, and they’ll rub when they expand. Too loose, and you may get bounce and flex.

Reinforce the Frame

For new builds or major repairs, make sure joists are properly spaced and blocked. A strong, tight frame makes all the difference.

Regular Maintenance

Inspect your deck annually. Tighten any loose screws, replace problem boards, and look for signs of movement before it turns into full-blown creaking.

When to Call in a Pro

If you’ve tried everything and your deck still sounds like it’s haunted, it might be time for professional help from someone who understands your house. Or maybe it’s just time for a new deck altogether. If your current one is over 15 years old and you’re seeing signs of rot, sagging, or loose joists, it may be more cost-effective— and safer —to rebuild.

A contractor can identify structural issues or framing problems that aren’t obvious from the surface, but you can also ask our friendly expert team at Decks & Docks for some advice!

Deck Repairs? Build Better With Decks & Docks!

A creaky deck might start as a small nuisance, but left unchecked, it can signal deeper issues. Whether you’re dealing with wood or composite, new construction or aging lumber, tighten what you can, replace what you must, and don’t be afraid to call in the pros when needed.

And if you’re planning a new deck or a serious overhaul? Let Decks & Docks be your first (and only) one-stop shop. We’ve got the right materials, tools, and advice to help you build a strong, quiet, long-lasting deck—whether it’s your first or your fifth.

Visit your local Decks & Docks, or browse decking products at our online partner, The Deck Store, to get started today!