My husband and I just moved in to a 10 year old house. I just noticed that the hardwood floor squeaks too much everytime we stepped on it. But mainly on main entrance and in dining area. What can we do to stop the squeaking sound? And what's the best solution to use in cleaning hardwood floors?
Answer:
Hardwood flooring should be wiped with a damp (not wet) cloth but getting rid of the squeaks may be something else. There isn't a whole lot to be done about the squeaky hardwood floor on a long-term basis but one might try sprinkling some talcum powder on it. The powder is then swept across the cracks so it penetrates well into the joints between the pieces. The residue can be vacuumed after that because the important stuff will have sunken to lubricate the pieces. Sometimes this works for a long time and sometimes it has to be re-done almost monthly - if it works at all. If, on the other hand, the problem has to do with sub-flooring not properly attached to joists, there isn't anything one can do with it. Trying to work this from underneath seldom, if ever, proves to be a long-lasting solution.
In the interests of retaining credibility and in fairness to all, I cannot recommend prices, people nor companies for various projects. Courtesy of Ren Molnar, Construction Consultant at HomeFocus.com. I can also be reached at (613) 748-3003 and Home Focus – The Radio Show is broadcast live 8 to 10 A.M. (Ottawa, Ont. time) on Saturdays on www.cfra.com.
Remember, even if you don’t do your own work around the house have to hire someone, you put yourself at a great advantage when you can intelligently discuss a project with the various trades people.
"Ren’s Ren-O-Vations Tips" is a monthly journal that talks everything to do with HOME OWNERSHIP & MAINTANENCE.
It is sent out in time to have it in your mailbox or on your computer by the 20th of the month – every month.
To order, simply send a cheque or money order to: Ren, P.O. Box 9411, Ottawa, Ontario, K1G 3V1
E-mail – 12 issues (1 yr.) $17.95. Regular mail – 12 issues (1 yr.) $33.95. (subject to change without notice) Credit card companies take a cut from payments so we are not credit card friendly - can't justify it. Ren’s Ren-O-Vations Tips makes the perfect gift any time for almost everyone: Be My Valentine, Easter, Christmas, Mothers’ Day, Fathers' Day, Birthday, Wedding, Congratulations New Home Owner(s), Thinking Of you, Good neighbour Ren
