How to Stop a Boat Dock From Squeaking

Don't let a squeaky dock ruin your good times.

Squeaking is caused by wood moving against nails; it doesn't matter whether the wood is the hardwood floors in your living room or a board on your lakeside dock. Stopping the squeaking requires stopping the movement. Adding nails may stop the squeaking temporarily, but the constant pressure of walking across the spot will soon cause the squeaking to return. Screwing the squeaking board to the joist below is the only way to permanently stop the annoying noise.

Things You'll Need

• Power drill
• Decking screws
• Wood shims (optional)

Instructions

1. Walk along the dock to locate the squeaking spots.

2. Go underneath the dock, if possible, and wedge the wood shims between the decking boards and joist, or support beam.

3. Drive several screws through the decking and into the joist.

4. Walk across the repaired area to test for squeaks. Add more screws if necessary.

References

• The Family Handyman: How to Fix Squeaky Floors