Woke up this morning wanting coffee real bad, took like two steps across my living room floor, and bam—felt like the boards were trying to trip me. Yeah, that hevea wooden floor? Suddenly thought it joined a dance team overnight. Squeaky, bouncy near the big window corner.

The Investigation Phase

Got down on my hands and knees like a weirdo. Pressed hard near the edge where it squeaked. Could feel it popping up—just a tiny bit, but enough to drive you nuts every time you step there. Checked the gap between boards. Felt loose under there, like air was hanging out. Probably humidity messing with it.

The Trip Downtown

Grabbed my tape measure. Drove straight to the hardware place downtown. Asked the old guy at the counter for advice.

• He looked me up and down: “You need specific screws, buddy. Not too long, not too thick.”
• Showed me these countersink screws—something like 45mm, skinny head.
• Also said: “Got a drill? You need countersink bits and a steady hand.” Felt like a test.

The Messy Part

Came home, shoved the furniture aside. Sweat already dripping—August heat sucks, man. Found the loose spot near the window edge.

• Drilled a pilot hole, slow and careful.
• Put the screw in the chuck, pressed down hard. Could feel the board resisting.
• Crackle noise… then it suddenly gave in. Screw sank deep below the surface. Did three more on that same board edge.

Dust everywhere. Accidentally scratched the board near the last hole. Dropped the drill bit onto the floor—left a tiny dent, dangit.

The Aftermath

Stood right on top of where I’d just screwed. Pushed down hard with both feet. Nothing—no pop, no creak. Board felt rock solid. Threw some wood filler into the hole where I scratched and the little screw heads.

Just… sat down right there, messy hair and all, drank my coffee cold. Felt the floor firm under me. Good enough for today—the dancing’s over. Only regret? Didn’t wear safety goggles. Wood dust in your eye stings like crazy.