Squeaky floor
#1
12-03-16, 02:26 PM
Join Date: Nov 2016
Location: USA
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Squeaky floor
Hey guys, looking at a house that was built in 1987 and the second floor squeaks really loudly pretty much everywhere, more than most houses this age. It's got carpet. What exactly causes squeaky floors, is there room for concern here? And is it possible to fix it so it doesn't squeak? Thanks!
#2
12-03-16, 03:08 PM
Group Moderator
Squeaky floors are usually caused by nails that either have missed the joist to the side or nails that have just worked their way loose for one reason or another. Overspanned, undersized or overstressed joists can lead to flexing which can pop nails loose. Subfloor should usually be glued as it is installed so it could be that was missed or skipped, adding to the movement. Crossbracing might also be lacking. The best way to fix squeaks is to pull the nails causing the squeeks and to glue and screw the subfloor down where possible.
#3
12-03-16, 09:52 PM
Group Moderator
It's a little tedious but my house was like this as well and with the ceiling finished below, I had to fix it from above. I used something like this: Squeeeeek No More Floor Repair Kit-19594 - The Home Depot
#4
12-04-16, 04:01 AM
Forum Topic Moderator
Same stuff I used but from Lowes. Terrible squeaks put kit in about 5 years ago and no problems since. Hardest part of job is finding trusses.
#5
12-04-16, 05:07 AM
Member
You dont need that kit, all you need are some 2 1/2" drywall screws.
The issue is finding the joist so the screw hits. What I do is drill a 1/8 hole through the carpet and sub floor, then use a "J" shaped piece of coat hanger to locate the edge of the joist and then just put the screw through the carpet.
It can take a few minutes but a squeaky floor drives me crazy.
The issue is finding the joist so the screw hits. What I do is drill a 1/8 hole through the carpet and sub floor, then use a "J" shaped piece of coat hanger to locate the edge of the joist and then just put the screw through the carpet.
It can take a few minutes but a squeaky floor drives me crazy.
#8
12-04-16, 12:32 PM
Member
deck screws, drywall screws, what every you have handy.
In the last 35 years I have never had to revisit a repair.
Again the BIG issue is finding that joist, there is not easy way, at least I've found a method to locate short of shooting random screws into the floor.
In the last 35 years I have never had to revisit a repair.
Again the BIG issue is finding that joist, there is not easy way, at least I've found a method to locate short of shooting random screws into the floor.
#9
12-04-16, 12:48 PM
Group Moderator
I'm not picking on you marq1 but anyone who has ever tried to run a drill or a screw through carpet knows that the carpet can quickly wind up on the drill bit or screw and create a "run" in the carpet... potentially damaging the carpet... so I would be remiss if I didn't warn some unsuspecting reader of the danger of drilling through or screwing through carpeting. Also speaking from experience.
#10
12-05-16, 06:52 AM
Group Moderator
If I have access to the subfloor, I'll drive deck screws. If there's carpet on top, I'm sticking with the Squeek No More screws and guide.
