Newly laid T&G chipboard floor just has to go

[Coolhurst]

Frustratingly today I've learnt I need to replace a newly laid subfloor due to incredible amount of squeaking. I mean every footstep '' !!!

We think we've identified the cause - an acoustic isolating rubber strip is allowing movement between the boards. We've tried no screws (completely floating floor) or adding more screws but the squeaking remains so our builder is resigned to lifting it all and starting over.

My Q is should we stick with the originally used 22mm P5 T&G or is Ply a better material. I'm told ply is less likely to squeak and adds strength which would be welcome. Our builder has always used P5 chipboard without any problems and so isn't too familiar with ply flooring.

btw, it's a first floor new extension. Joists and noggins have all been checked and are fine. Final finish will be carpet.

Cheers.

 

[ree]

Do you have a reference for the "acoustic isolating rubber strip"? Is it staying or going?

T&G chipboard is the standard sub-floor in the UK. Ply sheets are laid in just the same way, only ply is less manageable and more expensive.

Sub-floors in timber framing, OSB or Ply, are glued and screwed down with a 3mm gap between T&G edges.

Drying out in new work will sometimes cause squeaks and creaks, esp after heating is turned on.