Home Garden

How to Fix Creaking Pipes

The pipes within a home have the potential to cause serious and often costly problems. Normally, pipes shouldn’t produce sound when water passes through. Over time, however, clicks and creaks have a tendency to develop. These sounds are often more of an annoyance than a serious problem, and a few simple repairs will take care of the problem. The type of repair will depend on what the source of the sound is.

Things You'll Need

  • Foam pipe insulation
  • Pipe cutter
  • Straps or hangers
  • Drywall saw
  • Drywall tape and mud
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Instructions

    • 1

      Expose the pipes. A creaking pipe is usually the result of expansion and contraction of the pipes due to the changing temperature of the water moving inside. The pipe must be exposed before a correction is made.

    • 2

      Secure loose pipes. In homes where pipes are situated in tight spaces against woodwork, adding an additional strap or two will help reduce vibration and creaking and usually requires no other repairs.

    • 3

      Remove pipes from tight-fitting spaces. Once pipes are removed, expand the passages around the pipe to make room for insulation. This is necessary in situations where straps aren’t sufficient for repairing the creaking.

    • 4

      Apply a layer of foam pipe insulation. This material, available from most home improvement or hardware stores, will cushion the pipe and reduce or eliminate creaking. Secure the foam with straps.

    • 5

      Close the wall. Replace and seal the drywall, and then paint as needed.