Best Screws for Subfloor
Subfloors carry the whole house and must never squeak. That rules out nails alone and drywall screws entirely: subfloor wants #8 or #9 construction screws with aggressive threads, driven through 3/4-in ply or OSB into joists over a bead of subfloor adhesive. Screw-and-glue is the system — the screw choice just completes it.
What to Look For
- #8 or #9 gauge — thicker shanks resist shear and snap.
- Length equals subfloor plus 1 in into the joist — 2 to 2-1/2 in for 3/4-in stock.
- Aggressive coarse threads pull sheathing tight to joists.
- Torx or Star drive — you will drive hundreds; Phillips wastes bits and wrists.
- Always with subfloor adhesive — screws clamp, glue silences.
Top Picks
1. GRK RSS #9 x 2-1/2 in structural screws Best overall
Structural-rated with a washer head that clamps sheathing dead flat — squeak-free floors without collated gear.
Check price on Amazon →2. Senco DuraSpin collated subfloor screws Best for big jobs
Auto-feed strips plus a screw gun sheath a whole floor standing up — the contractor system for 1,000+ screws.
Check price on Amazon →3. Hillman #9 x 2-1/2 in gold subfloor screws Best value
Gold-coated construction screws in bulk boxes — correct gauge, thread, and drive for half the premium price.
Check price on Amazon →What to Avoid
Avoid
- Drywall screws — brittle, snap under floor loads, zero shear rating.
- Smooth-shank nails alone — they back out and squeak within seasons.
- Skipping the adhesive — screws without glue still squeak.
Also in the toolbox
- Quik Drive auto-feed screw system — drives a subfloor standing up
- Subfloor adhesive (Loctite PL 400) — the other half of the system
FAQ
Screws or nails for subfloor?
Screws — specifically #8 or #9 construction screws with subfloor adhesive. Ring-shank nails are an acceptable faster alternative, but screws clamp tighter and never back out. Never drywall screws: they snap under floor loads.
What size screws for 3/4 inch subfloor?
2 to 2-1/2 in screws — enough to pass through 3/4-in sheathing and bite a full inch into the joist. Space them 6 in on panel edges and 8–12 in in the field, per the APA fastening schedule.
Why is my subfloor squeaking even with screws?
Almost always missing adhesive or screws that missed the joist. Squeaks are wood rubbing wood — glue eliminates the movement that screws alone cannot. Locate joists, add adhesive through a small hole, and re-screw.
Keep Reading
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.