Why Do Hardwood Floors Creak

Why Do Hardwood Floors Creak?

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# Why Do Hardwood Floors Creak?

When it comes to hardwood floors, creaking is one of the most common problems homeowners face. Whether you’re dealing with a newly installed floor or an old one, creaky floors can be an annoyance for anyone. But why do hardwood floors creak in the first place? Let’s take a closer look at this issue and explore some of the possible causes of creaking hardwood floors.

## Could It Be the Subfloor?

The subfloor is one of the main factors that can cause hardwood floors to creak. The subfloor is the layer of material beneath the hardwood boards. In most cases, this is made up of plywood or OSB panels, which are prone to expanding and contracting due to changes in humidity. This movement can cause the boards above it to move as well, resulting in a creaking sound.

## Are Nails and Screws to Blame?

Another possible cause of creaking hardwood floors is loose nails and screws. Over time, nails and screws can come loose due to regular foot traffic, causing the boards to shift and create a creaking sound when they rub against each other. To fix this issue, simply drive the nails and screws back into place with a hammer or screwdriver. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, you may want to call in a professional.

## Could It Be Poorly Installed Floors?

In some cases, creaking floors can be caused by poor installation. If the floor was installed without leaving any space between the boards or by nailing them too tightly together, then there’s not enough room for expansion and contraction with changes in temperature and humidity. As a result, the boards rub against each other and create a creaking sound whenever someone steps on them.

## Is There an Underlying Structural Issue?

In some cases, creaky hardwood floors may be caused by an underlying structural issue. If your home is older or was poorly built, then it’s possible that there could be some movement in the joists or beams supporting your flooring. This can cause the boards above it to shift as well, resulting in a loud creaking sound every time someone walks across it.

## How Can You Stop Hardwood Floors from Creaking?

The best way to stop hardwood floors from creaking is to make sure they are properly installed and maintained. If your home is older, make sure that all nails and screws are securely fastened into place so there’s no movement between boards. Additionally, if you notice any gaps between boards or any signs of water damage, have them fixed as soon as possible. Finally, keep an eye on the humidity levels in your home; if they’re too high or too low, then it can cause your flooring to expand and contract, resulting in a loud creaking sound.

Creaky hardwood floors can be annoying for anyone who has them. By understanding why these floors creak and taking steps to fix any underlying issues, you can keep your hardwood floors looking great and sounding quiet for years to come!