4 Effective Ways to Fix Squeaky Floors and Restore Quiet

Hardwood flooring has plenty of perks: it’s stylish, durable, and adds value to any home. But even the most beautiful floor can develop an annoying habit — squeaking. Those creaks might be tolerable in the daytime, but at night they can sound like an alarm with every step you take. It’s enough to wake light sleepers or turn a midnight snack into a stealth mission.

Interestingly, hardwood is still the flooring of choice in places like gyms and dance studios, where silence is golden. So why do some floors stay quiet while others creak like an old staircase in a horror film? The answer lies in the causes of squeaky floors — and once you know them, fixing the problem becomes much easier. In this guide, we’ll explore the most common reasons behind floor squeaks and four effective ways to silence them for good.

Reasons and Solutions for Squeaky Floors

1. Expansion and Contraction of Wood

Hardwood flooring is a natural hygroscopic material, which means it constantly absorbs and releases moisture from the air. As temperatures and humidity levels change, the boards expand and contract. This natural movement is one of the most common causes of squeaky floors — and if left unchecked, it can even lead to bigger problems like cupping, gaps, or warping.

How to Prevent and Fix It:

• Acclimatise before installation: Let new wood flooring rest in the room for at least two weeks before fitting. This gives it time to adjust to the local environment and reduces future movement.
• Control humidity: Keep indoor humidity between 40–60% using a humidifier or dehumidifier. This prevents the wood from swelling in damp months or shrinking in dry seasons.
• Tighten loose boards: If squeaks have already appeared, secure problem boards with flooring screws or a suitable adhesive to limit movement.

Pro tip: If your floor wasn’t acclimatised before installation, squeaks might just be the first sign of trouble. Addressing the issue early will help you avoid more serious and expensive repairs later on.

2. Poor Installation – A Leading Cause of Squeaky Floors

Poor installation is one of the biggest culprits behind squeaky floors. When boards aren’t properly fitted, they rub against each other with every step, producing that all-too-familiar creaking sound. While natural expansion and contraction can make things worse, sloppy fitting almost guarantees squeaks. Sadly, bad installations happen more often than most homeowners realise.

How to Fix It:

• Apply a dry lubricant: A quick DIY fix is to sprinkle talcum powder, powdered soapstone, or graphite between the boards. Sweep it into the gaps to reduce friction and quieten the squeaks.
• Secure loose boards: If lubrication isn’t enough, fasten the boards with finishing nails, screws, or specialist wood adhesives to stop the movement altogether.
• Call in the pros: When squeaks are widespread, uneven, or persistent, a professional inspection may be the only way to resolve the issue properly.

Remember: Fixing installation issues early doesn’t just silence the squeaks — it also helps protect the long-term integrity of your hardwood floor.

3. Joists – The Hidden Cause of Squeaky Floors

Joists are the structural beams that hold everything together. They sit beneath your subfloor, carrying the weight of your flooring, furniture, and anyone walking across the room. When something goes wrong with the joists, you may start hearing squeaks. One common culprit is a gap between the joist and the subfloor, which allows movement and causes the boards above to creak with every step.

How to Fix It:

• Insert shims: For small gaps, tap a thin wooden shim into place between the joist and subfloor. Add wood glue for extra security.
• Apply construction adhesive: Run a bead of adhesive along the seam where the joist meets the subfloor to stop movement. Safety note: most adhesives are solvent-based, so good ventilation and a respirator mask are essential.
• Sister the joist: If a joist has warped or twisted due to moisture, a shim won’t be enough. In this case, reinforce it by attaching a new wooden support (known as a sister joist) alongside the damaged one, secured with nails and adhesive.

Because joists are hidden below the floor, repairs often mean accessing a crawl space or basement. If you’re not comfortable working in these areas, it’s best to call in a professional before the problem worsens.

4. Alternative Ways to Reduce Floor Creaking

Most people associate underlays with carpet, but acoustic underlays can also work wonders for hardwood floors. They add an extra layer of sound insulation, making each step feel softer while reducing noise transfer to the rooms below. This is especially useful in flats or apartments, where noise regulations and neighbourly peace are always a concern.

Other Quick Fixes to Minimise Noise:

• Lay down area rugs: Placing rugs or runners in busy areas absorbs sound and adds comfort underfoot. It’s a simple, budget-friendly way to hush squeaks.
• Kick off the shoes: Hard-soled shoes exaggerate squeaks. Switching to slippers or going barefoot indoors instantly reduces the impact and the noise.
• Pick underfloor heating-friendly rugs: If you have heating beneath the floor, use heat-compatible rugs to stay cosy without blocking warmth or airflow.

These solutions won’t eliminate structural squeaks, but they can make everyday living much quieter without major repairs.

Conclusion: Silence the Squeaks for Good

Squeaky floors are a nuisance, but they’re not unbeatable. Whether the problem comes from wood expansion, poor installation, joist movement, or simply everyday friction, there’s a solution that can restore peace and quiet to your home. By dealing with squeaks early, you not only reduce the noise but also protect the long-term health of your hardwood floors.

If the problem feels bigger than a DIY fix, don’t wait until the creaks get worse. Fixing squeaky floors with a flooring professional ensures lasting results — so you can enjoy a floor that looks and sounds as good as new.

FAQ: Fixing Squeaky Floors

• What causes squeaky floors? The most common causes are wood expansion, poor installation, gaps between joists and subfloors, or general floorboard friction.
• Can I fix squeaky floors myself? Yes — small fixes like adding lubricant, inserting shims, or using rugs often work. Larger structural issues may require professional help.
• Will an underlay stop squeaky floors? An acoustic underlay won’t fix structural squeaks, but can reduce noise and make footsteps quieter.
• Do squeaky floors mean damage? Not always. Many squeaks are caused by minor movement. However, persistent creaks linked to joists or subfloors may indicate a bigger issue.
• When should I call a professional? If squeaks are widespread, worsening, or linked to structural problems like warped joists, professional repairs are the safest long-term solution.