How to Fix Creaking Hardwood

Wood is a living element. It goes through a process of aging. Thus, hardwood floors will age quickly, especially if they not properly cared for. This aging causes the floorboards to shift. Once you step on an older, looser board, it rubs against another board, resulting in squeaking and creaking. While some repairs might call for professional help, a little hard work and patience can help you fix your creaking hardwood floor on your own.

Powdered graphite or baby powder
Flashlight
Nails
Screws

Instructions

- 1
  Locate the creaking area of the floor. Usually this will be only one to two boards in a specific area.
- 2
  Sprinkle powdered graphite or baby powder over the creaking area. The powder acts as a lubricant for the wood.
- 3
  Walk over the squeaking area until the noise goes away. Walking around allows the powder to seep in between the loose boards.
- 4
  Check to make sure there are no loose screws or nails. If you can see underneath the baseboards of the floor, try scanning the bottom of the baseboard with a flashlight to look for loose nails and screws.
- 5
  Replace any loose nails or screws. If you find one underneath the baseboard that is loose, make sure its replacement is one to two sizes larger than the previous nail or screw.
- 6
  Call a local repair person if the squeaking persists.

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