How to Redo Squeaky Flooring

Shimming Gaps

• 1

  Slide 2 shim pieces -- thin portions of wood -- into each side of the gap between the joist and the floor above.

• 2

  Make a mark on each shim with a pencil. Remove the shims.

• 3

  Apply construction adhesive to the marked portion of the shims.

• 4

  Place the shims into the gap up to the marks.

• 5

  Cut the shims with a utility knife at the marks. The shims should now fill the gap.

Reinforce Joints

• 6

  Measure the length of the gap between the joist and the flooring above. Use this measurement to cut your 2-inch by 4-inch lumber to length.

• 7

  Drill 3/16-inch holes every 12 inches along the a 2-by-4 at a slight diagonal upward.

• 8

  Apply construction adhesive to one side of the 2-by-4.

• 9

  Press the 2-by-4 onto the joist with the top touching the floor above, covering the gap.

• 10

  Drive two 1/2-inch wood screws into the 2-by-4 into the joist to stop the squeak.