Squeaks and creaks can be a huge nuisance.
Learn how to fix squeaky floors and stop the noise with our simple guide.
The most difficult part of fixing many common floor squeaks is determining the cause of the squeak.
Credit: Stacy Zarin Goldberg
Some squeaks come and go with the seasons, while others are there to stay.
Most squeaks are harmless, but some can indicate bigger issues hidden beneath your floor.
Increase the Humidity
Many floors squeak if the air becomes too dry.
As the wood dries, it shrinks.
This opens gaps between boards as well as around fasteners.
To account for this, simply place a humidifier in the room or area with squeaky floors.
Apply Powdered Graphite
Tongue-and-groovehardwood floorsare notorious for squeaking.
Sometimes, all it takes is a little lubrication to stop the sound.
Powdered graphite is the ideal lubrication, but baby powder and talcum powder can sometimes do the trick.
To apply the lubricant, simply locate the squeaky joint and apply the powder to the crack.
Lightly brush the powder back and forth until it settles in the crack.
Work the joint by stepping repeatedly, then brush more powder into the joint.
Repeat this process until the powder is gone or no longer fills the crack.
Wipe up any remaining residue with a damp cloth but refrain from vacuuming the area.
Before spraying, test the lubricant on a hidden area to see if it stains ordiscolors the wood.
Wipe off the excess with a dry cloth and follow up with awood floor cleaner.
Once you know the cause, you’ve got the option to find the right fix.
Watch for loose nails or sections that shift as you move.
The sound is the result of wood rubbing against other wood or metal fasteners.
Once you locate the squeak, look at the underside of the floor.
If possible, have a helper flex the squeaking area while you examine from below.
While not common, a squeaky floor can sometimes be indicative of a larger problem in the floor system.
A pro will be able to find the issue and help you find the best solution.
Once you’ve determined the likely cause of the squeak, follow the below processes to solve the problem.
For specific supplies, reference the methods below.
Don’t force the shim farther, as this can worsen the issue.
If possible, slide a second shim in from the other side of the joist.
Mark the shims against the edge of the joist using a pencil, then remove them.
Slide the shims back into place and let the glue dry.
If you prefer, use a utility knife to cut the excess from the shim.
Cut a 2x4 to a length two feet longer than the damaged area of the joist.
Screw into the joist and subfloor using 212-inch self-drilling wood screws.
If the flooring can’t be removed, you must screw through it.
Lightly mark its position with a pencil.
Drive the screw using a drill until it breaks.
Fill the void above the broken screw with color-matched wood filler and lightly sand until smooth.
Slipping and striking the floor can cause major damage to the finish.
Look for a thick, heavy rug (like wool) to muffle the creaks most effectively.
