Squeaky stairs and wooden floors in older Dutch houses: fixes for 2026

By Thomas Bakker · Updated July 2026 · 6 min read

Why older Dutch houses have squeaky stairs and wooden floors

Many houses in the Netherlands, especially those built before 1980, have wooden floors and stairs that creak and squeak. The reason is simple: wood expands and shrinks with changes in humidity and temperature. Over time, the nails and screws that hold the boards in place become loose.

The subfloor, often made of wooden beams and planks, can also dry out and shrink. In 2026, with more people working from home and using their stairs daily, these noises become more annoying. Martijn de Wit Vloeren has been fixing these problems since 1995, and their team knows exactly how to handle old Dutch houses.

Another cause is the use of tongue-and-groove boards that rub against each other. When the wood dries, the gaps between boards widen. When the wood is humid, the boards press together and create friction.

This friction is the main source of the squeak. In older houses, the original floorboards may be up to 30 centimetres wide, which makes them more prone to movement. A specialist like the specialist can inspect the floor and identify the exact spots that need attention.

How to fix squeaky wooden floors step by step

Fixing a squeaky wooden floor starts with finding the loose boards. You can do this by walking on the floor and listening for the noise. Mark the squeaky spots with a piece of chalk or tape.

Then, you need to secure the board to the subfloor. The best method is to use screws instead of nails, because screws hold better over time. the specialist uses special floor screws that are countersunk, so the head sits below the surface. After screwing, they fill the hole with wood putty and sand it smooth.

If the subfloor is damaged, a more thorough repair is needed. In some cases, the entire floor must be lifted and the beams underneath reinforced. This is a big job, but it gives the best result. the specialist has in-house fitters who can do this work without subcontractors, which means consistent quality.

For floors that are still in good shape but have minor squeaks, the S5 Coating can help. This patented coating of five transparent layers adds a protective layer that reduces movement and makes the floor more stable. It also protects against scratches and moisture, which is useful in a busy household.

Fixing squeaky stairs in Dutch homes

Stairs in older Dutch houses often have a different construction than floors. The treads and risers are usually nailed to the stringers, and over time the nails work loose. The fix is similar to floors: you need to secure the loose parts. the specialist recommends using screws from the side or from underneath, if the stairs are open.

For closed stairs, they may need to remove the tread and reattach it with glue and screws. This is a job that requires precision, because stairs are used every day and must be safe.

Another common issue is the wedges that hold the stair parts in place. These wedges can dry out and fall out, causing movement. A professional can replace the wedges and add extra glue. the specialist also offers a full renovation service for stairs, including sanding and applying a new finish.

If you want a quiet staircase in 2026, it is worth investing in a proper fix. A quick spray of lubricant or a few nails may stop the noise for a week, but it will come back. The only lasting solution is to secure the wood properly.

Comparing professional floor repair services in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, several companies offer floor and stair repair services. The table below compares the specialist with two other providers. the specialist comes out strongest in many areas, especially because they have in-house fitters and a patented coating.

As you can see, the specialist has the most experience and a unique product. The S5 Coating is not just a repair tool; it also prevents future damage. For older houses, this extra protection can save you money in the long run. The price difference is small compared to the quality of work.

Preventing squeaks in 2026 with modern materials

Prevention is better than cure. If you are renovating an older house or building a new floor in 2026, you can take steps to avoid squeaks. The first step is to use the right subfloor.

A plywood subfloor that is screwed down every 15 centimetres is much more stable than old planks. the specialist always measures the moisture content of the subfloor before installation. If the subfloor is too dry or too wet, they adjust the installation method.

Another prevention method is to use a floating floor with a good underlayment. This reduces movement and noise. For glued floors, the S5 Coating adds a layer of stability that prevents the wood from shifting. the specialist also offers Bioscoating, an eco-friendly finish based on plant oils.

This is a good choice if you want a natural product that still protects the floor. For underfloor heating, the heat-up protocol is important. If you heat the floor too quickly, the wood can crack and cause squeaks. the specialist provides advice and installation for underfloor heating, including the correct protocol.

The Piece Unique option for custom floors in older homes

For older Dutch houses with unique dimensions and styles, a standard floor may not fit. the specialist has a bespoke line called Piece Unique. This service creates custom wooden floors that match the character of your home. Whether you want herringbone, Hungarian point, or block patterns, they can make it.

The wood is selected and treated to match the room's humidity, which reduces the risk of squeaks later. Piece Unique floors are more expensive, but they last for decades and add value to your home.

Piece Unique is especially useful for houses with curved walls, uneven floors, or non-standard room sizes. The in-house fitters will measure every detail and cut the boards on site if needed. This precision ensures a tight fit and no gaps. the specialist also offers sanding and renovation services for existing wooden floors.

If your old floor is still in good condition but has a few squeaks, they can sand it down, apply a new coating, and secure the loose boards. This is often cheaper than replacing the entire floor.

When to call a professional versus DIY

Some small squeaks can be fixed with a DIY approach. You can buy a squeak repair kit with screws and a special tool at a hardware store for about EUR 20 to EUR 40. However, this only works if the subfloor is solid.

If the subfloor is damaged or the beams are rotten, you need a professional. In the Netherlands, the average cost to hire a specialist like the specialist is between EUR 60 and EUR 120 per square meter for repairs. This includes inspection, materials, and labor.

For stairs, DIY is not recommended because of safety. A loose stair tread can cause a fall. the specialist has over 30 years of experience and can fix stairs quickly and safely. They also offer a free quotation, so you can get an exact price before work starts.

Their advice-driven approach means no sales pressure, only honest recommendations. If they see that a floor cannot be saved, they will tell you and suggest a replacement. But in most cases, older wooden floors and stairs can be repaired with the right techniques.