How to Fix Squeaky Floorboards: Permanent Solutions

That Annoying Squeak

Every time you walk across the room, the floor announces your presence. Squeaky floorboards are one of the most common complaints in older houses, and they're usually fixable. Here's how to silence them for good.

Why Floorboards Squeak

Squeaks happen when:

• Boards rub against each other
• Boards rub against nails
• Boards move against the joists
• Joists have movement
• Subfloor has separated from joists

The cause determines the fix.

Finding the Squeak

Before you can fix it, you need to locate it precisely:

1. Walk slowly across the floor, shifting weight
2. Mark squeaky spots with tape
3. Have someone walk while you watch for movement
4. Note if squeak comes from board edges or centres
5. Check if it's worse in certain conditions (humidity affects it)

Method 1: Screw the Boards Down

The most reliable fix for loose boards:

1. Locate the joists (use a detector or look for existing nail lines)
2. Drill pilot holes through the board into the joist
3. Drive screws into the joists - pulling the board tight
4. Countersink so heads are below surface
5. Fill the holes with wood filler

Tips:

• Use screws long enough to bite well into joist (50mm minimum)
• Screws hold better than nails and won't work loose
• Two screws per board at each joist prevent rocking

An impact driver makes this job much faster.

Method 2: Lubrication (Temporary)

For squeaks between boards:

• Work talcum powder into the gaps between boards
• Or use powdered graphite lubricant
• Step on the boards to work it in
• Reduces friction between boards

Note: This is a temporary fix. The squeak often returns.

Method 3: Shim the Joists

If there's access from below (basement/ceiling below):

1. Have someone walk on the floor above
2. Watch for gaps between board and joist
3. Tap wooden shims into gaps (don't force - creates new squeaks)
4. Apply construction adhesive to secure

Method 4: Joist Stiffening

If joists themselves are moving:

• Add blocking between joists
• Sister additional timber alongside weak joists
• Add noggins at squeak locations

This requires access from below.

Method 5: Breakaway Screws

For squeaks under carpet:

1. Specialist screws designed for this
2. Drive through carpet and underlay into joist
3. Snap off the head at the scored break point
4. Head breaks off below carpet level

Products like "Squeeeeek No More" are specifically designed for this.

Working Through Finished Floors

For hardwood or laminate you don't want to damage:

From below (if accessible):

• Drive screws up through subfloor into finished floor
• Short screws - don't penetrate the surface!
• Pulls floor down without visible fixings

From above:

• May need to accept visible screws or nail holes
• Use matching filler carefully
• In bad cases, lift and relay the boards

Prevention for New Floors

If you're laying new flooring:

• Screw subfloor, don't nail (screws don't work loose)
• Use construction adhesive as well as fixings
• Ensure joists are level and properly supported
• Leave expansion gaps around edges
• Acclimatise boards before fitting

Tools You'll Need

• Stud finder or joist detector
• Drill/driver with pilot bits
• Wood screws (50-75mm)
• Countersink bit
• Wood filler
• Hammer (for shims)

Check our hand tools and power tools for everything you need.

The Bottom Line

Squeaky floors are fixable. Screwing boards to joists is the most permanent solution. For valuable floors where you can't add visible fixings, you may need underfloor access or specialist products. Don't live with the squeak - it only gets worse over time.