Why does parquet creak in summer?

Parquet creaks in summer because of the heat and humidity at this time of year, which make the wood expand. This expansion creates friction between the boards or against the subfloor, and that is where the noises come from. Don't worry: it doesn't mean the floor is damaged.

Table of contents

Do wooden floors creak more in summer?What makes parquet creak?How to stop wood creakingWhat can you do to stop parquet creaking?Is it better to install laminate parquet?Is it worth replacing the floor if it creaks?Are there simple fixes without building work?Do wooden floors creak more in summer?Yes, it is quite common. Parquet creaks in summer because the combination of high temperatures and humidity makes the wood expand. When that happens, the boards push against each other or rub against other materials, causing those annoying creaks. It is especially common in humid climates or in homes without air conditioning.

What makes parquet creak?

There are two main reasons why parquet creaks in summer:

• Thermal expansion: wood expands with heat.
• Humidity: wood absorbs moisture from the air, which changes its size.

Both factors affect how the parquet behaves, especially if not enough expansion space was left when it was installed.

How to stop wood creaking

Some tips to stop wood creaking are:

• Use humidifiers or dehumidifiers, as appropriate.
• Ventilate your home well, especially if you live in coastal or humid areas.
• Make sure the parquet is installed with the necessary expansion joints.
• Choose a type of wood or material that is more dimensionally stable.

What can you do to stop parquet creaking?

It depends on whether it is already installed or you are about to lay it:

• If you already have it: try talcum powder or wood-specific lubricants in the joints.
• Ask an installer whether just the affected area can be lifted and relaid.

If you are going to install parquet:

• Make sure the base is level and the expansion gaps are respected.
• Consider options such as laminate parquet, which is usually more stable in the face of humidity.

Is it better to install laminate parquet?

It depends on your needs. Laminate parquet:

✅ Copes better with temperature changes
✅ Creaks less because it isn't solid wood.
✅ Is cheaper and easier to install.

But if you want a warmer, more natural finish, traditional parquet is still a great option, as long as it is installed correctly. You can look at the options in our parquet sales.

Is it worth replacing the floor if it creaks?

Not necessarily. In many cases the creaking can be fixed without replacing the whole floor. It is only worth renewing it if the noise is very loud or comes with visible warping.

Interested in flooring installation in Malaga? At Payresa we have the best professionals, who will install your floor as well and as quickly as possible, taking care of the floor at all times and leaving a spectacular finish. Parquet installation in MalagaAre there simple fixes without building work?Yes, there are solutions that don't involve any building work at home.

• Talc in the joints: helps reduce friction.
• Humidifiers to stabilise the environment.
• Rugs in the noisiest areas as a temporary fix.

And if you have tried everything and it still creaks, talk to a specialist. A small, localised repair may be all it takes.

So, to sum up:

• Parquet creaks more in summer because of the heat and humidity.
• It is normal, but it can be prevented with good installation and climate control.
• Laminate parquet is a more stable alternative.
• There are simple fixes, even without building work.

If you enjoyed this article, you may also like: “How to choose the best flooring for shops”

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