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There it is again – a loud squeak every time someone walks down the hall. This may be a good sound for parents hearing their kids, but it’s really annoying at 3 a.m. when someone’s just making a trip to the bathroom or kitchen. Floor squeaks are caused by natural shrinkage of wood due to changes in moisture content. As the wood dries, it shrinks, and nails can loosen. When you step on the floor, the wood moves and rubs against the fasteners. Squeak! Many options exist to correct floor squeaks. Often you can work from below to add (or “sister”) strips of framing wood to the existing joist. Use construction adhesive and screws to secure the strip of framing to the joist and the sub-floor. The construction adhesive is the key – it bonds to all surfaces and will not shrink as it cures.  You can also add a thin wood shim to gaps between the floor joists and the sub-floor. Again, use construction adhesive. Gently tap the shims into the gap. Don’t pound the shims into the gap because this may widen it and make the problem worse.
7 Comments
9/1/2024 10:31:06 pm
If you have a squeaky floor, a simple fix might be to sprinkle baby powder or talcum powder between the floorboards to reduce friction. Another effective solution is to secure loose floorboards with finishing nails or screws to stop the movement causing the noise. For a more permanent fix, consider using a lubricant like WD-40 or installing adhesive shims under the floorboards to stabilize them. 12/30/2024 12:27:57 am
I got a few quotes from different plumbing companies, but Pinkston Plumbing offered the best value. They were upfront about costs, and the quality of work was excellent. It’s rare to find a trustworthy and affordable plumber like them. 8/18/2025 07:22:50 am
Great post! Squeaky floors are a common issue we see, and while DIY fixes can help, sometimes the problem signals a bigger need for professional attention. At Premium Wood Floors, we specialize in Kansas City hardwood floor refinishing, hardwood floor repair, and hardwood floor installation, offering lasting solutions that not only silence squeaks but also restore the beauty and durability of your floors. As a trusted flooring contractor in Kansas City, our team has years of experience addressing everything from minor gaps to full refinishing projects. Whether you’re dealing with wear, damage, or simply want to refresh your hardwood flooring, we’re here to provide expert craftsmanship tailored to your home in Shawnee and the surrounding areas. 10/1/2025 04:19:32 am
Great post! Squeaky floors are definitely a common issue, especially in older homes around Albany where seasonal changes in moisture can impact wood and flooring. While addressing squeaks with shims or adhesives is a smart solution, homeowners should also consider how insulation plays a role in long-term comfort and structural performance. 10/14/2025 02:17:24 am
One thing I’d add: if you have access from below, installing sound-dampening strips or felt between the joists and subfloor might help reduce any residual “creep” noise over time. Also, monitoring humidity in the home helps — wood expands and contracts with moisture changes, so keeping indoor humidity stable can reduce the chances of new squeaks forming. 10/20/2025 09:23:46 am
Great read! We completely understand how frustrating those small home maintenance issues can be — whether it’s squeaky floors or a drafty fireplace. Just like floors loosen over time, your chimney components can also wear down due to weather exposure and natural aging. That’s why our team specializes in Sanford chimney cap replacement to keep your home protected from rain, debris, and unwanted pests. Leave a Reply. |
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Amelia's Home Inspection offers the highest quality Home Inspection services in Greater Milwaukee, Wisconsin at an affordable price. A home inspection provides an analysis of potential fire hazards, home safety and health risks to your family. Archives
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