How to Stop a Squeaky Hardwood Floor

Squeaky floors can sometimes add charm to older homes. Many people expect hardwood floors to squeak after years of use, and some homes shift as they settle, causing squeaks. The weather may also play a role when floors start to squeak. Having access below a squeaky floor is the most efficient way to fix a squeak. With the help of a friend, the exact spot can easily be located, and the squeak can be found and eliminated.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Talcum powder
• Powdered graphite
• Nail
• Screw
• Shims
• 1x4 board

Above-Floor Access

1. Lubricate between squeaky boards with talcum powder. Work the powder into the seam and step on the board a few times to push the powder deep between the boards. Clean excess powder from the floor.

2. Spread powdered graphite between the squeaky boards. Cover the area with a paper tower and step on the boards to work the powder into the seam. Wipe the residue from the floor.

3. Nail the floorboard to the sub-floor using a flooring nail. Nail ½ in. from the edge of the board at an angle. Drive the nail below the surface with a nail set.

Below-Floor Access

4. Install screws through the floor joist and the subfloor. Insert the screw at an angle; this will pull the subfloor tight against the joist.

5. Push shims between the joist and the subfloor. Do not push the shims too deep, as this could cause the floor to raise and cause more squeaking.

6. Attach a 1x4 piece of lumber to the floor joists near the squeak. This will add stability and stop the floor from moving.

References

• Fix a Squeaky Floor