Use Trim Screws or Counter-Sunk Nails from Above

A reliable repair when there is no access from below. Fastening the floorboard directly into the joist from above stops movement at the source. The small holes left behind are filled and become nearly invisible.

Steps

1. Locate the floor joists beneath the creaking boards using a stud finder or by tapping and listening for a solid sound.
2. Drill a small pilot hole through the floorboard and subfloor into the joist at the point of the creak.
3. Drive a trim-head screw or finishing nail into the pilot hole, countersinking the head slightly below the surface.
4. Fill the hole with wood putty that matches the floor color and let it dry.
5. Sand the putty flush once dry and touch up with finish if needed.

Tips

Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting, especially near board edges. Trim-head screws grip better than nails and are less likely to work loose again over time. Space multiple fasteners about 200 mm apart along the joist line if a long section of board is creaking.