Hardwood floors should never make unusual noises. As beautiful as they are, at some point they may betray a singularly annoying flaw: how much noise they can make as you walk across them.
Hardwood floors should never make unusual noises. As beautiful as they are, at some point they may betray a singularly annoying flaw: how much noise they can make as you walk across them. Luckily, there are ways to enforce sound reduction on your floors, so if you’re fed up, here are some tips for you to follow!
Before the Floors Are Installed
One major way to make a difference is to isolate the noises hardwood floors can make. Doing this before the floors are even installed can prove to be enough of a difference-maker that you will wonder why you never explored this possibility before now. Whether you are waiting for a new construction home to be finished or replacing the floors is a part of the home remodeling process, you can oversee this step in hardwood floor installation. All you need to do is ensure that an acoustical soundboard is being installed beneath the subfloor. This soundboard provides additional insulation. Covering up any remaining gaps also helps – we recommend sealing them up with sealant or silicone to squelch the sounds before they get out of control.
Using Underlayments
Another approach is to consider using underlayments. Mats can also help you isolate unwanted sounds. Some materials that function as excellent underlayments include rubber, vinyl, and closed-cell foam. The thicker your floor coverings are, the more sound reduction you will receive. That means you might want to invest in cushioned vinyl instead of regular vinyl. Mats, chipboard sheets, and acoustic underlayments are going to be your best defense against noisy hardwood floors. Ask around and find out which manufacturers produce these items before you make a decision.
After the Floors Are Installed
Now then, let’s talk about what you can do after the hardwood floor in question is already installed. In this regard, you’ll probably want to pivot towards redecorating all of the rooms featuring hardwood floors. Sofas and sectionals covered in a softer fabric help, as do tablecloths, slipcovers, and cushions. Also, try using area rugs, fabric wall hangings, and window draperies. Another suggestion is to inspect the floorboards themselves. Unexpected gaps between them can cause the irritating squeaking noises you hear. Find out where the gaps are and fill them in; this should stop all of the noise.
Ready for a Beautiful Hardwood Floor? Trust John K Eareckson & Co.
When you work with John K Eareckson & Co., Flooring, we will ensure your hardwood floors undergo a stress-free acclimation process and that they sparkle for years to come; from a seamless and beautiful installation to years of maintenance, John K Eareckson & Co. Flooring has the expertise to care for your home’s hardwood floors. For a consultation and more information, visit us online or give us a call at 410-788-4200. You can also look for us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Flickr.