How to Fix Creaky Laminate Floors

Creaky laminate floors can be both annoying and concerning. The persistent noise may disrupt the quiet of your home and leave you wondering whether there’s a deeper issue at play.

Fortunately, most creaky floors can be resolved with a few straightforward techniques, saving you the cost of professional repairs.

By understanding the common causes of creaks and the best methods on how to fix creaky laminate floors to address them, you can restore peace to your home and ensure your floors remain in excellent condition.

Why Do Laminate Floors Creak?

Before diving into the solutions, it’s essential to understand why laminate floors creak in the first place. There are a few common causes of creaky floors that you should be aware of:

Subfloor Issues:

If your subfloor is uneven or has gaps between board panels, it can lead to movement and shifting in your flooring. This can result in creaks when pressure is applied.

Poor Installation:

If your laminate flooring is not installed correctly, it may lead to gaps between the planks or an uneven subfloor. These issues can cause creaking noises when walking across the floor.

Moisture Damage:

Excessive moisture can cause warping and damage to laminate floors, leading to creaking noises as the boards shift and rub against each other.

With these potential causes in mind, let’s explore some solutions on how to fix creaky laminate floors.

Needed Tools and Materials

Tools:

Hammer:

A hammer can be used to secure loose boards or subfloor panels that may be causing creaking noises.

Screwdriver:

A screwdriver will come in handy for tightening any loose screws in your flooring.

Wood Glue:

If your floorboards are rubbing against each other, a small amount of wood glue can help reduce the friction and eliminate the creaks.

Materials:

Baby Powder:

In cases where the creaking is caused by gaps between planks, baby powder can act as a lubricant to reduce friction and eliminate noise.

Moisture Barrier:

If moisture damage is the cause of your creaky floors, laying down a moisture barrier beneath your flooring can help prevent further damage and eliminate creaks.

Floor Repair Kit:

If your floorboards are damaged or have significant gaps between them, a laminate floor repair kit can help you fill in the gaps and secure loose boards.

8 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Fix Creaky Laminate Floors

Step 1: Identify the Source

The first step in fixing creaky laminate floors is to pinpoint the exact location of the noise. Walk slowly across the floor, listening carefully for the creaking sound. Mark these spots with a piece of tape or chalk so that you can easily locate them later.

Pay close attention to areas near walls, transitions, and high-traffic zones, as these are common spots for creaks to develop. Identifying the source of the noise is crucial to determining the best method for repair.

Step 2: Secure Loose Boards 

Once you’ve identified the creaky spots, check whether the laminate boards in the affected area are loose. If the creaking is caused by movement in the boards, carefully secure them to prevent further shifting. 

For floating laminate floors, avoid nailing or screwing the planks directly, as this can damage the flooring and interfere with its ability to expand and contract with temperature changes. Instead, use wood glue to secure loose edges. Gently lift the affected plank and apply a small amount of glue along the edge. Press the plank back into place and wipe away any excess glue with a damp cloth. 

If the issue lies with the subfloor beneath, remove the baseboards in that area to access it. Use a hammer or screwdriver to tighten any loose nails or screws holding the subfloor in place. Once the subfloor is secure, reattach the baseboards and test the floor to confirm that the creaking noise has stopped.

Step 3: Fill Gaps Between Boards

If the creaking noise is caused by gaps between your laminate boards, sprinkle some baby powder into the seams. Use a small brush or cloth to work the powder down into the gaps, filling them and reducing friction between the boards. This will eliminate any creaks caused by these gaps.

The baby powder trick works best with lighter-colored floors, as it may be more noticeable on darker floors. If you have a darker floor, consider using colored wood wax or filler instead.

Step 4: Tighten Loose Screws 

If the creaking is coming from the subfloor beneath your laminate flooring, loose screws may be the culprit. To address this issue, carefully remove the laminate planks in the affected area to gain access to the subfloor. 

Once the subfloor is exposed, check for any loose screws or nails that may be causing movement. Use a screwdriver to tighten loose screws or a hammer to drive in any nails securely. Be cautious to avoid over-tightening screws, as this can cause splitting in the subfloor material. 

After securing all loosened screws or nails, replace the laminate planks and ensure they are properly aligned. Test the area by walking across it to confirm if the creaking noise has been resolved. If the noise persists, double-check the subfloor for additional loose hardware or gaps that may require attention.

Step 5: Use Wood Glue to Eliminate Friction 

If the creaking is caused by friction between laminate boards, a small amount of wood glue can help eliminate the noise. Use a syringe or dropper to apply the glue into any gaps or areas where the boards are rubbing against each other.

Wipe away any excess glue with a damp cloth and allow it to dry completely before walking to the repaired area. The wood glue will act as a lubricant and reduce friction between the boards, eliminating any creaks.

Step 6: Address Moisture Damage

If moisture damage is causing your laminate floors to creak, it’s crucial to address this issue before any repairs can be made. 

First, identify the source of the moisture and fix it to prevent further damage. If there is a leak from the plumbing or an exterior source, address it immediately. Next, lay down a moisture barrier on top of your subfloor to protect your laminate flooring from any future water damage.

After addressing the moisture issue, remove any damaged or warped boards and replace them with new ones. A floor repair kit can help you fill in gaps between boards and secure loose planks for a seamless finish.

Step 7: Check for Expansion Gaps 

One common mistake in laminate floor installation is not leaving enough room for expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes. If this is the cause of your creaking floors, there may not be enough space between the flooring and walls, causing the planks to rub against each other and create noise. 

To fix this issue, remove any baseboards around the affected area and trim the edges of the laminate boards with a circular saw to create more room for expansion. Replace the baseboards and test the floor for any remaining creaks.

Step 8: Hire a Professional 

If you’ve followed all of these steps and are still experiencing creaky laminate floors, it may be time to call in a professional. A trained contractor or flooring specialist can assess your floors and determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed. They can also provide more advanced repair solutions, such as using specialized tools or techniques.

By following these step-by-step guidelines on how to fix creaky laminate floors, you can effectively fix creaky laminate floors and enjoy a quieter and more comfortable home. Remember to always use caution when working with power tools and to consult a professional if you are unsure about any steps in the process. With a little bit of time and effort, your laminate floors will be restored to their original functionality and beauty. Happy repairing!

How Much Could It Cost?

The cost of fixing creaky laminate floors can vary widely depending on the extent of the issue and the repair method required. For minor fixes, such as applying baby powder or wood glue to reduce friction between boards, the cost is minimal, often under $20 for supplies. If you need to purchase basic tools like a syringe for applying glue or a small brush, expenses may increase slightly but remain affordable.

For more complicated repairs, such as addressing moisture damage or securing the subfloor, costs can range from $50 to $200, depending on the materials and tools required. For instance, replacing damaged boards or applying a moisture barrier may involve buying new planks, a sealant, or protective underlayment.

Hiring a professional can significantly increase repair costs but is often necessary for larger or more complex issues. On average, professional services can range from $150 to $500 or more, depending on factors such as the size of the affected area, labor rates in your location, and the complexity of the repairs. Although this may seem like a considerable investment, professional assistance ensures the longevity and quality of your flooring.

By understanding the potential costs involved, you can better plan your repair approach and budget accordingly. Remember to always consider the severity of the issue and consult with a professional if necessary.

Conclusion 

Fixing creaky laminate floors can range from simple remedies like applying wood glue to more extensive repairs involving subfloor adjustments or professional assistance. Addressing the issue promptly not only enhances the comfort of your living space but also prevents further damage to your flooring.

By following the steps on how to fix creaky laminate floors outlined in this guide and considering your budget, you can effectively restore your floors to their original condition. Whether tackling the project yourself or hiring a professional, a little effort and attention to detail will ensure your laminate floors remain durable, functional, and noise-free for years to come.