Nails or Screws Help, advice, information, answers and tips on all types of flooring from laminate and carpet to timber and vinyl

[dma]

I have had my dining room floorboards replaced. The house was built in 1932. The floorboards have been screwed down. I have been told they should have been nailed. Can you pease advise what difference this would make long term?

[stoneyboy]

dma,
Screwing down is far superior - you can always tighten screws. If you want stained boards then nailing is best.
end

[rosebery]

Screw would be my preference. But make sure that you use a screw whose length is at least 3 x the depth of the board you are securing. Nothing wrong with ring shank nails or floor brads either using the 3x rule but most certainly DO NOT use plain round wire nails.

If there is any danger of having to lift the boards in the future screwing is better than nailing anyway.