I have old hardwood floors upstairs that creak so badly?
by
Patricia M
+9
Any remedies? Also, they get so dull yet I don't want to be waxing and striping wax...bad back. Suggestions? I appreciate them :-)
12 answers
-
Patricia, It's time to call some Pro's over they will not only fix the creaks but also sand and stain your hardwoods, it's really worth it since you have a bad back.
Yamini LEED AP at Urbanmotifs
on Nov 12, 2011
-
Hello Patricia! Because of your back here are some relatively pain free options. It's possible that the floorboards are rubbing against each other. If so, you can lubricate between boards. Spread talcum powder along the seam where the boards are rubbing, then step on the boards to work the powder into the seam. Another method uses powdered graphite instead of talcum powder. Just like the talcum powder spread the graphite along the seam, then cover with cloth or paper towel and step on the boards to work into the seams. Be sure to vacuum up the residue; powdered graphite is pretty messy compared to talcum powder.
Kimberly Lacy
on Nov 12, 2011
-
need some time :) but thank you so much !!
Patricia M
on Nov 16, 2011
-
Use corn starch on them. That will lessen some of the squeaks as the powder acts as a lubricant.
Woodbridge Environmental Tiptophouse.com
on Nov 17, 2011
-
I tried an area that was esp. noisy with the talc. It works !!! I worked in several layers as you said, Kimberly. I'm going to work on other areas as I can. Is there any diff in the talc and the corn starch? Also, once its worked its way into the crevices, can I use a light 'wax' or something to give it its shine back? I thank you all for your answers. I cannot afford the pros--lol, or I'd def be calling them in !! But, I get to ask you and you are PROS....
Patricia M
on Nov 19, 2011
-
Talc and corn starch works the same. Glad it worked for you.
Woodbridge Environmental Tiptophouse.com
on Nov 19, 2011
-
Wow, I never knew talc or cornstarch would help creaky wood floors...good to know!
Melinda K
on Nov 19, 2011
-
Well on its way :) Thank you !!
Patricia M
on Nov 19, 2011
-
Depending on the age of the house, a creaking floor can be just part of the "charm" While corn starch and talc powder will help, it also can get messy. Wood, even after it is cut and kiln dried can expand and contract and moves around. I have fond memories of my house and grandparents house that the floors creaked when you walked on them. Enjoy your home
Harold M
on Nov 20, 2011
-
Talc is an inert mineral, but corn starch comes from a vegetable. Guess which one insects might enjoy! Now guess which one I want to use in my house.
Nichter's Home Services Corp
on Nov 20, 2011
-
Glad I chose the talc !! Also, Harold, I don't mind the comfy sounds that creak in most places; just wanted to get the 'doorways' quieted down. They are the worst anyway. When someone gets up to use the bathroom during the night... :-) the whole household doesn't need to know !!
Patricia M
on Nov 20, 2011
-
Nichter is right but I would not be worried about bugs. The vegetable base in the corn starch tends to last longer in noise prevention then does the talc. But it sounds as though its working for you.
Woodbridge Environmental Tiptophouse.com
on Nov 20, 2011
Sign Up to Answer
Suggested Project Book
