How to Fix Squeaky Floors (Without Tearing Them Up)
Squeaky floors are annoying but surprisingly easy to fix.
M
Written by Mike Thompson
Licensed General Contractor · 20 years experience
Need help with this? Chat with a home improvement expert.
Get personalized advice for your specific situation — just $3.
In this article
1. Why Floors Squeak2. Method 1: From Below3. Method 2: From Above on Hardwood4. Method 3: For Carpeted FloorsWhy Floors Squeak
Squeaks happen when floorboards rub against each other, the subfloor, or nails. Temperature and humidity changes cause wood to expand and contract.
Method 1: From Below
Have someone walk on the squeaky spot while you watch from below. Drive a short wood screw from below up into the subfloor.
Method 2: From Above on Hardwood
Drill a pilot hole at an angle through the hardwood into the subfloor. Drive a finish nail. Or sprinkle talcum powder between squeaky boards.
Method 3: For Carpeted Floors
Buy a Squeeek No More kit (about $25). It lets you drive a screw through carpet into the subfloor, then snap off the screw head below the surface.
Pro Tips
✓Map out all squeaky spots before starting
✓A humidifier in dry months can reduce seasonal squeaking
✓For second-floor squeaks without basement access, use from-above methods
Still stuck? Chat with Mike now.
Get personalized home & diy help for your specific situation — just $3.
Chat with Mike Thompson — $3 →More Home & DIY Articles
Related Articles
Related Home & DIY Questions
The caulk around my bathtub has black mold growing on it. I have tried scrubbing with bleach but it ...
Answered by Mike Thompson, Licensed General Contractor · 61 found helpful
My bedroom door sticks and I have to push hard to close it. It worked fine last summer. Is the door ...
Answered by Mike Thompson, Licensed General Contractor · 43 found helpful
My dryer is taking 2-3 cycles to dry a normal load. It used to dry everything in one cycle. The drye...
Answered by Mike Thompson, Licensed General Contractor · 74 found helpful