Creaking floorboards are one of the most common problems we’re asked to assess, and knowing how to fix floor gaps correctly is often the key to solving them. But while online tips might suggest quick fixes or foam fillers, the truth is that squeaks, creaks and floor movement are usually symptoms of deeper issues.
At Sussex Floor Restoration, we don’t just silence squeaks. We identify what’s causing the movement, what’s failing underneath, and what your specific floor actually needs. If you’re living with annoying noise underfoot or worried about boards that move or flex, here’s what we want you to know and why you should always trust professionals for this kind of repair.
Summary: Key Causes and Fixes for Creaking Floorboards
- Creaking floorboards are usually caused by movement between boards, loose fixings, or subfloor issues.
- They often worsen with seasonal humidity or wear.
- DIY fixes like powder or glue rarely last.
- How to fix floor gaps properly involves stabilising the floor, re-fixing boards, and filling with professional materials.
- The safest solution is always to consult a specialist who can diagnose both surface and structural issues.
What Causes Creaking Floorboards?
Creaks are a movement problem. It’s not the sound that matters; it’s why the sound is happening in the first place.
Common causes include:
- Boards rubbing against each other due to shrinkage
- Subfloor fixings working loose over time
- Joist movement in older properties
- Inadequate insulation or expansion gaps
- Incorrect installation in laminate flooring or wood flooring
- Seasonal humidity changes that create expansion and contraction
Each case is different, which is why our first step is always to inspect the floor structure, including what lies beneath.
Why DIY Fixes Don’t Work for Long
There’s no shortage of online “hacks” for fixing squeaky floors, from baby powder between boards to filler rods in visible gaps. The problem is that these methods are dubious at best and treat the symptom, not the cause.
Here’s what often happens when people try to fix squeaky floorboards themselves:
- Incorrect filler expands or contracts, making things worse
- Screws hit electrical or pipework beneath
- Temporary silence masks growing structural issues
- Low-quality repairs can reduce floor lifespan and resale value
Professionals use the right tools and techniques to avoid these risks entirely.
Our Professional Approach to Creaking Floorboards
As a specialist floor repair team, we approach each floor based on its material, age, and condition. Whether it’s wooden floors in a period home or modern engineered boards, the goal is the same: quiet, stable flooring with long-term results.
Here’s how we do it:
1. Identify the Type of Flooring
Understanding whether you have solid timber, laminate flooring, or engineered wood helps us determine how movement occurs and what materials have been used, including whether adhesives, nails or screws, or clip systems were used.
2. Diagnose the Movement
We inspect for:
- Loose or lifted boards
- Gaps between boards or subfloor
- Failed fixings or joists
- Hidden moisture issues
- Seasonal movement patterns
We also check under skirtings and floor edges, where movement often begins.
3. Restore Structural Integrity
Depending on the issue, our fix might involve:
- Refitting boards with correct tension
- Re-fixing using hidden screws where needed
- Using specialist slivers to close gaps (especially in older timber floors)
- Stabilising joists or adding insulation where voids allow
- Sealing visible gaps after repairs with flexible, colour-matched fillers
We avoid invasive or cosmetic-only fixes; every solution is designed to improve both the feel and performance of the floor.
Table: Common Floor Creak Causes and Fixes
Why We Prioritise Lasting Results
At Sussex Floor Restoration, we don’t just quieten a floor, we restore it properly. That means:
- Protecting the original flooring design and layout
- Using the correct materials for your types of flooring
- Matching timbers and filler so the finish remains seamless
- Delivering work that lasts through all seasons, not just the week after we leave
And most importantly, we listen to your needs, your budget, and your home’s quirks.
Floor Creaks Aren’t Normal and You Don’t Have to Live With Them
If you’ve been living with floor creaks and squeaky floors, it might be time to stop ignoring it. You shouldn’t have to tiptoe around your own home. With the right expertise, we can restore peace, comfort, and confidence underfoot.
And if you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with structural issues or just age-related wear, we’ll let you know honestly and clearly.
Let’s Fix the Floor (Properly)
We restore more than just surfaces. Whether it’s creaks, gaps or uneven boards, our team knows how to fix floor gaps and underlying issues the right way with no guesswork, no shortcuts, and no mess.
Visit our Wood Floor Restoration Services page, or call us on 01444 810505.
Looking for more great advice? You should check out our blog on Wood Floor Adhesive for Parquet Floor Repairs!
FAQs
What causes creaking floorboards in older homes?
Creaking floorboards in older homes are often caused by loose nails, shrinking timber or movement in the subfloor. Over time, boards rub against each other or joists, creating noise that worsens with humidity changes or wear.
Is it possible to fix creaky floors without replacing them?
Yes, most creaky floors can be fixed without replacing boards. A professional can re-secure loose boards, fill movement gaps and stabilise the subfloor to eliminate noise without a full replacement.
Can floor gaps cause squeaky noises?
Yes, gaps between boards allow movement, which causes squeaks. As boards shift or rub against each other, especially during seasonal changes, noise increases. Filling gaps professionally can reduce this friction and stop the sound.
What’s the best way to fix floor gaps in wooden floors?
The best fix for floor gaps depends on the floor type. For timber floors, flexible fillers or timber slivers are used. The key is matching the material and allowing for future movement, which is why expert application matters.
Should I fix squeaky floorboards myself or call a specialist?
It’s best to call a specialist. DIY attempts often treat symptoms, not the cause. Professionals assess structural issues, choose the right method and prevent further damage, especially in timber or period flooring.
Why do my floors creak more during winter?
Floors creak more in winter due to dry indoor air, which causes timber to contract. This creates small gaps that increase movement and friction between boards or fixings, leading to more noticeable noise.
Can engineered wood flooring creak like solid wood?
Yes, engineered wood can creak if not installed properly or if adhesive or fixings fail. While more stable than solid wood, engineered floors can still move slightly, especially over uneven subfloors.
Are creaky floorboards a sign of serious damage?
Not always, but they can indicate underlying issues like loose joists, failing fixings or moisture problems. A professional inspection helps determine whether it’s surface-level noise or something that needs urgent repair.
What tools do professionals use to fix squeaky floors?
Professionals use specialist tools like flooring screws, hidden fixings, gap-filling systems and subfloor anchors. They also use precision sanding and testing equipment to identify weak points under the surface.
How much does it cost to fix creaking floorboards professionally?
Costs vary depending on the floor type, room size and extent of the issue. Most minor creaks are affordable to fix, but full structural repairs or refinishing may cost more. A free quote is usually the best starting point.
Updated November 2025
