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How To Fix Squeaky Floors

These easy fixes will help you silence squeaky hardwood and carpeted floors.

by Merle HenkeniusUpdated 09/05/2024
Home entry way with squeaky hardwood floors.
iStock

Squeaky floors aren’t just annoying; they can also signal underlying structural issues. Whether you’re dealing with creaky hardwood, noisy carpeting, or squeaking stairs, there are effective solutions to silence those pesky sounds.

Our guide discusses the causes of squeaky floors, repair tools, and step-by-step methods to fix various flooring types. We’ll also cover preventive measures and when it’s best to call in a professional.

Tools and Materials for Floor Repair

Here’s what you’ll need to tackle most squeaky floor issues.

Must-Have Tools for DIY Floor Fixes

  • Drill with various bits
  • Hammer
  • Pry bar
  • Putty knife
  • Screwdriver (manual and electric)
  • Tape measure
  • Utility knife

Recommended Materials for Various Floor Types

Depending on your floor type, you may need the following additional tools:

  • Carpenter’s glue
  • Construction adhesive
  • Lubricating powder (such as talcum powder)
  • Screws (various sizes)
  • Specialized repair kits (Counter-Snap Kit, Squeak-No-More Kit)
  • Wood filler or putty
  • Wood shims

Fixing Squeaky Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors are particularly prone to squeaking due to their natural properties. Here are two effective methods to silence those creaks.

Using the Counter-Snap Kit Method

The Counter-Snap Kit is a great way to fix squeaks in hardwood floors without damaging the surface. Here’s how to use it:

  1. Locate the source of the squeak.
  2. Drill a 3/32-inch pilot hole through the hardwood flooring.
  3. Insert a screw through the kit’s depth-control fixture and into the pilot hole.
  4. Drive the screw until it automatically snaps off below the wood surface.
  5. Fill the hole with wood putty that matches your floor color.
  6. Once dry, sand the area lightly to blend with the surrounding floor.

Applying Wood Filler and Lubricants

Try using wood filler to repair minor squeaks as follows:

  1. Clean the area between floorboards with a vacuum.
  2. Apply wood filler to small gaps using a putty knife.
  3. For larger gaps, use a liquid filler designed for wood floors.
  4. Once dry, sand the filler flush with the floor surface.

Alternatively, sprinkle talcum powder or powdered graphite between squeaky boards to reduce friction.

Silencing Squeaks in Carpeted Floors

Carpeted floors can be trickier to repair since the source of the squeak is hidden. However, you can still address the issue effectively with the right tools.

The Squeeeeek-No-More Kit Technique

The Squeeeeek-No-More Kit is designed for carpeted floors. This kit secures the subfloor to the joist without damaging the carpet. Follow these steps:

  1. Locate the floor joist nearest to the squeak using the provided pilot screw.
  2. Position the depth-control fixture over the joist.
  3. Drive a special breakaway screw through the carpet and subfloor into the joist.
  4. Remove the fixture and snap off the screw head below the carpet surface.

Alternative Methods for Carpeted Areas

If you don’t have access to a specialized kit, try these alternatives:

  1. Locate the squeak by walking on the carpet and marking the spot.
  2. Use a stud finder to identify the nearest joist.
  3. Drive a thin finish nail at an angle through the carpet, pad, and subfloor into the joist.
  4. Sink the nail head below the carpet surface using a nail set.

Repairing Squeaky Floors From Below

If you have access to the underside of your squeaky floor through a basement or crawl space, you can often fix the problem from below.

Using Carpenter’s Glue and Shims

This method helps fill gaps between the subfloor and joists:

  1. Have someone walk on the floor above while you listen for squeaks.
  2. Mark the squeaky spots on the joists.
  3. Apply carpenter’s glue to a thin wood shim.
  4. Gently tap the shim into the gap between the joist and the subfloor.
  5. Be careful not to overdrive the shim, as this could raise the flooring above.
  6. For added support, drive a 1 1/4-inch drywall screw at an angle through the joist and shim into the subfloor.

Implementing the Squeak-Ender Solution

The Squeak-Ender is a hardware solution designed for underfloor repairs. This method effectively eliminates gaps causing squeaks without accessing the floor from above. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Screw the mounting plate to the subfloor’s underside directly beneath the squeaky spot.
  2. Slide the bracket over the threaded rod and hook it onto the joist.
  3. Tighten the nut on the rod to pull the subfloor snug against the joist.

Addressing Noisy Staircases

Due to their complex construction, staircases are often the noisiest part of a home. Here are some techniques for quieting creaky steps.

Techniques for Accessible Stair Backs

If you can access the back of the staircase, try this method:

  1. Locate gaps between treads and risers.
  2. Apply carpenter’s glue to thin wood shims.
  3. Gently tap the shims into the gaps.
  4. For added support, screw wood blocks into the corners where risers meet treads.

Top-Side Repairs for Enclosed Staircases

When you can’t access the back of the stairs, try this top-side fix:

  1. Identify loose joints or gaps in the stairs.
  2. Carefully tap thin wood shims into these spaces.
  3. Trim excess shim material with a utility knife.
  4. For a more finished look, glue and nail quarter-round molding along each step’s edge.

Preventive Measures for Future Squeaks

Taking proactive steps helps prevent squeaks from developing on your floors.

Proper Installation Techniques

When installing new flooring or subflooring, follow these tips:

  • Consider using construction adhesive in addition to nails or screws.
  • Leave proper expansion gaps around the room’s perimeter.
  • Make sure the subfloor is dry and level before installation.
  • Use the correct type and number of fasteners.

Regular Maintenance Tips

Here’s how to maintain your floors and keep them squeak-free:

  • Address any water damage promptly to prevent wood warping.
  • Apply lubricating products to floorboards annually in high-traffic areas.
  • Control indoor humidity levels to prevent wood expansion and contraction.
  • Regularly check for and tighten any loose fasteners.

When To Call a Professional

While many floor squeaks can be DIY fixes, some situations require professional expertise.

Signs That DIY Isn’t Enough

Consider calling a pro if the following applies:

  • Squeaks persist after multiple DIY attempts.
  • There’s visible water damage or signs of pest infestation.
  • You’re dealing with antique or specialty flooring materials.
  • You notice sagging or bouncy floors, indicating potential structural issues.

Choosing the Right Floor Repair Specialist

When selecting a professional, keep the following in mind:

  • Ask for references and check online reviews.
  • Get multiple quotes and detailed project plans before committing.
  • Look for licensed and insured contractors with experience in floor repair.
  • Make sure they offer a warranty on their work.

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