Fixing Squeaky Floors: Silencing the Noise

Squeaky floors drive homeowners mad, but fixing them is usually straightforward once you understand what causes the noise.

What Causes Squeaks

Squeaks happen when something rubs:

• Boards rubbing against each other
• Boards moving on nails
• Boards flexing against joists
• Gaps that allow movement

Locating the Problem

Find the squeak precisely:

1. Have someone walk while you listen
2. Mark squeaky spots with tape
3. Check from below if possible (basement/ceiling)
4. Identify which board and which joist

Fixes From Above

When you can't access from below:

• Screwing down: Drive screws through boards into joists
• Breakaway screws: Special screws that snap off below surface
• Talcum powder: Temporary fix for board-to-board rubbing
• Shims from above: Force thin wedges between boards

Fixes From Below

With basement or crawl space access:

• Shims: Wedge between joists and subfloor
• Blocking: Add solid blocking between joists
• Construction adhesive: Fill gaps that allow movement
• Metal brackets: Secure subfloor to joists

Working Under Carpet

Carpet can stay in place:

1. Locate joist through carpet (stud finder or probing)
2. Use breakaway screws designed for carpet
3. Drive through carpet into joist
4. Snap off screw head
5. Work fibres back over hole

Hardwood Floor Considerations

Solid hardwood needs care:

• Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting
• Countersink screws and fill
• Match filler to floor colour
• Consider face-nailing as last resort

Prevention

In new work:

• Use construction adhesive as well as fasteners
• Screw rather than nail when possible
• Allow for moisture movement in timber
• Don't leave gaps that allow flexing

The right fixing tools make floor repair faster and more effective.