4 Effective Ways to Fix Squeaky Floors

Hardwood flooring offers numerous benefits, from its timeless beauty to its durability. However, one common issue that homeowners face is squeaky floors. The creaking sounds can be mildly irritating during the day but turn into a real nuisance at night, disrupting sleep with every step. Yet, despite this, hardwood flooring remains the preferred choice in high-traffic areas like gyms and dance halls—places where noise control is crucial. So why do some hardwood floors stay silent while others creak with every movement? The answer lies in the causes behind squeaky floors and the best methods to fix them. Let’s explore the most common reasons for squeaky floors and how you can restore peace to your home.

Reasons and Solutions for Squeaky Floors

1. Wood’s Natural Properties – Expansion and Contraction

Hardwood flooring is a natural hygroscopic material, meaning it absorbs and releases moisture from the environment. As a result, it constantly expands and contracts in response to changes in humidity and temperature. Over time, this movement can lead to more than just annoying squeaks—it can cause serious issues like cupping or warping of the floorboards.

How to Prevent and Fix It:

• Acclimate the Wood Before Installation – New flooring should be left to adjust to the room’s climate for at least two weeks before installation. This allows the wood to stabilise and reduces future movement.
• Monitor Humidity Levels – Keep indoor humidity between 40-60% using a humidifier or dehumidifier to prevent excessive expansion or contraction.
• Check for Gaps or Loose Boards – If improper acclimatisation is the cause of squeaks, consider tightening loose boards with flooring screws or adhesive to minimise movement.

If your floor wasn’t properly acclimated before installation, the creaks you hear now could be an early warning sign of bigger problems down the line. Addressing them early can save you from costly repairs.

2. Poor Installation – A Leading Cause of Squeaky Floors

One of the most common reasons for squeaky floors is poor installation, where floorboards are not properly fitted together. This can cause two boards to rub against each other with every step, creating the familiar creaking sound. While expansion and contraction due to humidity changes can also contribute, improper fitting significantly increases the likelihood of squeaks. Unfortunately, bad installations are more common than you might think.

How to Fix It:

• Use a Lubricant – A quick and easy fix is to apply a dry lubricant, such as talcum powder, powdered soapstone, or graphite, between the floorboards. This reduces friction and minimises noise. Simply sprinkle the powder over the affected area and sweep it into the gaps.
• Secure Loose Boards – If the issue persists, you may need to tighten loose boards using finishing nails, screws, or an adhesive specifically designed for wood flooring.
• Consider Professional Repairs – If the squeaks are widespread and severe, consulting a flooring specialist may be the best solution to assess and fix installation-related issues.

Addressing installation flaws early can prevent long-term damage and ensure your hardwood floor remains both beautiful and quiet for years to come.

3. Joists – The Hidden Cause of Squeaky Floors

Joists are structural beams that support your floor, running horizontally between walls, foundations, or beams. They carry the weight of the subfloor, the hardwood flooring, furniture, and everyone walking on it. If something goes wrong with the joists, your floor may start to creak. One common issue is a gap forming between the joist and the subfloor, causing movement and leading to the unpleasant squeaky noises you hear with every step.

How to Fix It:

• Fill Small Gaps with Shims – A simple and effective fix is to insert a thin wooden shim into the gap between the joist and subfloor. Apply wood glue to keep it securely in place.
• Use Construction Adhesive – For a stronger hold, apply a bead of construction adhesive along the seam where the joist meets the subfloor. *Warning: Most construction adhesives are solvent-based, so proper ventilation and a respirator mask are essential for safety.
• Reinforce Warped or Twisted Joists – If humidity changes have caused the joists to warp or twist, the gap may be too large for a simple shim. In this case, nail a wooden support piece (sister joist) along the damaged joist and secure it with construction adhesive for added stability.

Since joists are hidden beneath the floor, fixing them may require accessing the crawl space or basement. If you're unsure, consulting a flooring expert can prevent further damage and ensure a long-term solution.

4. Alternative Ways to Reduce Floor Creaking

While most people associate underlays with carpet flooring, they can also be highly effective for hardwood floors. An acoustic underlay provides additional sound insulation, making walking more comfortable and reducing noise for anyone living below you—especially useful in apartments or flats where noise regulations may apply.

Other Easy Fixes to Minimise Noise:

• Use Area Rugs – Placing rugs or runners in high-traffic areas helps absorb sound and adds a layer of comfort to your space. This is a simple and budget-friendly solution.
• Go Shoeless Indoors – Hard-soled shoes create more impact and friction, making squeaks more noticeable. Walking barefoot or in soft-soled slippers can significantly reduce noise.
• Choose Underfloor Heating-Friendly Rugs – If you have underfloor heating, opt for heat-compatible rugs to avoid interference with your system while still enjoying noise reduction benefits.

While these solutions won’t eliminate structural squeaks, they can make daily life much quieter and more comfortable—without major repairs.

Squeaky floors are a common issue that many homeowners face, but with the right approach, they can be easily resolved. Whether the cause is natural wood expansion, poor installation, issues with the joists, or simple friction, there are effective solutions to restore peace and quiet to your home. By addressing these issues early and using the right tools and techniques, you can extend the life of your hardwood floors while ensuring a more comfortable, noise-free environment. If you're unsure about tackling the repairs yourself, don't hesitate to seek professional help for a long-lasting solution. If you're dealing with squeaky floors and need expert assistance, we're here to help—contact us today for a professional fix!