Introduction

Wondering how to fix squeaky floors? We'll shwo you how to find the source and fix it. Plus, you don't need any special skills or tools.

How to fix squeaky floors: First, find the source of the squeak

Want to know how to fix squeaky floors? The first step is finding out what’s causing it. Floor squeaks are caused by wood rubbing against a nail, other wood, or even ductwork and piping. Finding the squeak can be difficult, but if the squeaking floor is open from below, you’re in luck. You’ll have several options to stop it.

To locate the source of the squeak, have a helper spring up and down on the squeaky area while you listen and watch for subfloor movement from below. Also, look for loose nails or subfloor seams rubbing against each other. It doesn’t take much movement to cause a squeak, especially since your floor amplifies the sound like a giant soundboard.

If you’re working alone, measure the squeak’s location in relation to a wall or heating register that you can locate from below. Then go downstairs and measure these distances along the subfloor. Or, if your floor is carpeted, you can drive an 8d finish nail through it to mark the squeak source.