How do I soundproof my creaking floorboards?

Creaking floorboards are an age-old soundproofing issue in older buildings. You've just settled down to a good book and a cuppa, when it all kicks off again: those infernal creaks from the flat above or from the kids getting ready for bed.

So what soundproofing measures can you take to combat creaking floorboards? Sadly, there are no proprietary sound-insulation solutions for creaky floorboards.

However, what you can do is stop them moving against each other, which is the usual cause of squeaky floorboards. Before any soundproofing materials are used on your squeaky floorboards, the movement of the boards must first be addressed.

Screw squeaky floorboards to joists

The squeaking of the floorboards can often be caused by the floorboards being secured to the joists with nails that are too small or too widely spaced. The best remedy for this is simply to firmly screw the floorboards to the joists. This also has the benefit of not disturbing any Artex, paint or other ceiling materials when using a hammer.

If the movement of the joists themselves is causing the creaking of the floorboards, then you should stiffen the joists using timber plates or noggins.

Squeaky floorboards and defective materials

Another potential cause of squeaky floorboards is defective materials. Joists can be warped or twisted, and bowing can make materials rub against each other. As a rule, when floor materials brush against each other, you'll get squeaking. This can sometimes be fixed temporarily with mineral oil, but something more solid will be required for a permanent solution.

You should remedy structural-stiffness issues before deciding to apply any acoustic soundproofing flooring  products such as Acoustilay, Maxideck or SubPrimo. These soundproofing products can then be used on top of the creaky floorboards to improve the overall sound-insulation performance of the separating floor.

 

 

Can’t find your noise problem here? If you can’t find your particular soundproofing issue listed here, or have a more bespoke or specialised construction, do not worry. SRS Ltd are especially experienced in advising on these type of ‘bespoke’ applications – just send an email to one of our technical team detailing your particular situation and we will send you a bespoke specification – alternatively, feel free to give us a call to talk it through, Tel: 01204 380074

Sound Reduction Systems Ltd – For a Quiet Life.

Disclaimer:

Please note that acoustic problems can have many different causes. We have highlighted the most common, based on over 25 years experience in the industry, but it always best to talk to an advisor before purchase.