How to Fix Squeaky Wood Floors

Squeaky wood floors can be charming in an old home, but they can also be incredibly frustrating—especially when they disrupt a quiet morning or wake up a sleeping baby. If you’re dealing with persistent creaks, you’re not alone. The good news? You don’t have to live with them.

Whether your hardwood floors are brand new or decades old, fixing squeaks is easier than you might think. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to fix squeaky wood floors, from quick DIY solutions to more permanent repairs.

Why Do Wood Floors Squeak?

Before diving into solutions, it’s important to understand why your floors are making noise in the first place. Squeaks usually happen because of movement between the floorboards, subfloor, or joists. Here are some of the most common causes:

• ‍Loose Floorboards: Over time, floorboards can loosen, causing friction between the boards and subfloor.‍
• Gaps in the Subfloor: As the wood expands and contracts with temperature changes, small gaps can form, leading to movement.‍
• Joist Issues: If the subfloor isn’t secured properly to the joists, it can shift and create noise.‍
• Humidity & Seasonal Changes: Wood floors naturally expand in the summer and contract in the winter, which can worsen squeaks.

Now that we understand the causes, let’s explore how to fix a squeaky wood floor with some practical solutions.

Fixing Squeaky Floors from Above

If you can’t access the underside of your floor (such as in an upstairs bedroom), don’t worry. There are still several ways to fix the squeak from above.

1. Sprinkle Powdered Graphite or Baby Powder

A simple and quick fix is to reduce friction between the boards. Try:

• Sprinkling powdered graphite, talcum powder, or baby powder between the floorboards.
• Sweeping the powder into the cracks using a soft cloth or brush.
• Walking over the area to help the powder settle in and lubricate the boards.

This won’t permanently solve the issue, but it’s an easy first step to reduce minor squeaks.

2. Use Construction Adhesive to Secure Loose Boards

For a stronger fix, try using construction adhesive to bond loose floorboards.

• Identify the squeaky spot and apply a small amount of adhesive to the gap.
• Press the boards down firmly and wipe away any excess.
• Allow it to dry completely before walking over the area.

3. Drive a Finishing Nail into the Floorboards

If your floorboards are lifting slightly, securing them with a nail can help:

• Locate the squeaky section and mark the area where the board moves.
• Drill a small pilot hole through the floorboard into the subfloor.
• Hammer a finishing nail into the hole, then use wood filler to hide the nail head.

This method works well if only a few areas of your floor are causing noise.

Fixing Squeaky Floors from Below

If you have access to the underside of your floor (such as a crawl space), you have more repair options.

1. Shim the Gaps Between the Joist and Subfloor

Small gaps between the subfloor and joists can lead to movement. You can fix this with a simple wood shim:

• Slide a wood shim into the gap where the floor moves.
• Apply a bit of construction adhesive before inserting the shim for a more secure fit.
• Avoid forcing the shim in too hard, as this can create more problems.

2. Secure the Subfloor with Screws

If the subfloor is moving against the joists, adding screws can eliminate the movement.

• Locate the squeaky area from below.
• Drill a pilot hole and drive a screw through the subfloor into the joist.
• Be careful not to use screws that are too long, as they can come through the floor above.

3. Use a Squeak-Repair Kit

Several commercial kits are available to fix squeaky floors. These typically include specialized screws designed to be drilled into the floor and snapped off cleanly at the surface.

• Follow the instructions included in the kit to secure the floor without leaving noticeable holes.
• Some kits include special construction adhesives or shims for added support.

When to Consider New Flooring

If squeaky floors are becoming a persistent issue or your hardwood is showing signs of age, it might be time to consider an upgrade. Instead of constantly battling noisy boards, investing in high-quality new flooring can give your home a fresh, modern look—without the creaks.

At Baker Bros, we offer a wide selection of premium flooring options, from stunning hardwood to luxury vinyl and tile, designed to enhance both style and durability. If you’re ready to explore new flooring solutions, visit Baker Bros today to find the perfect fit for your home.

Preventing Future Squeaks

Once you’ve fixed your noisy floors, you’ll want to keep them quiet for the long run. Here’s how:

• ‍Control Humidity Levels: Use a humidifier in winter and a dehumidifier in summer to prevent excessive wood expansion and contraction.‍
• Properly Install Flooring: If you’re installing new hardwood floors, ensure they’re correctly fastened and supported to prevent future squeaks.‍
• Regular Maintenance: Check for loose boards and secure them before they become a bigger problem.

Final Thoughts

Squeaky floors might be annoying, but they’re rarely a sign of serious structural issues. Whether you’re dealing with minor creaks or persistent squeaks, now you know how to fix squeaky wood floors with simple, effective solutions.

If you’re considering new flooring or need expert advice on floor repairs, Baker Bros offers high-quality solutions to help you enjoy beautiful, quiet floors for years to come. And if you’re looking for additional tips on handling scratches on hardwood floors, be sure to check out our blog!