12:30 02-10-2025

How to Fix Creaking Laminate Floors: Simple Tips & Prevention

Generated by Dall-e

Learn why laminate floors start creaking and discover simple, effective ways to fix the problem. Get practical tips on prevention and long-lasting quiet flooring.

Why Does Laminate Creak?

It’s a sound no homeowner wants to hear — the faint squeak of laminate flooring underfoot. This often happens months or even years after installation, though sometimes the noise appears right away. The causes vary: an uneven base, a thin or poorly chosen underlay, shifting panels, or simple friction between boards. Even with careful installation, brand-new laminate can surprise you with that unwanted creak.

A Simple, Effective Fix

One of the easiest solutions doesn’t require tools or dismantling the floor. Regular talcum powder or baby powder can help. By sprinkling it into the gaps between panels and gently brushing it in with a soft brush, the powder seeps inside. This reduces friction, and in many cases, the squeak disappears almost instantly.

Other Proven Methods

If the problem persists, there are additional approaches worth trying:

Check the underlay connection: Make sure the laminate is firmly supported. If needed, place extra spacers underneath to stabilize the surface.

Use silicone lubricants: Specialized floor lubricants create a thin protective layer between the panels, helping them slide smoothly against one another instead of rubbing noisily.

Preventing Future Squeaks

To keep laminate flooring quiet and durable for years, prevention is key:

• Choose a high-quality underlay — it cushions the boards and absorbs pressure.
• Maintain stable humidity levels indoors. Sudden changes in moisture accelerate deformation and increase the risk of squeaks.
• Leave expansion gaps along the walls during installation, so the material can naturally expand without pressing against solid barriers.

Following these simple steps ensures that laminate flooring stays not only stylish but also pleasantly silent underfoot.