What's That Sound? Common Household Noises Explained and How to Fix Them

Did you hear that? Some household noises are easy to explain, like a dripping shower or the icemaker dropping cubes. Others, like strange knocks or what sound like footsteps, might make you wonder if your home is haunted.

There is almost always a practical explanation. Here are the most common household sounds and how to fix them, whether it is a DIY job or one for a professional.

Creaky Floors

Flooring is one of the most common sources of creaks, and that one squeaky board or stair always seems to find you in the middle of the night.

• The cause: usually a board rubbing against another board or a fastener. It is more common in older homes, where wood has expanded and contracted over time.
• Subfloor issues: the noise can also mean the flooring is not well attached to the subfloor.
• The fix: you may not need new floors unless the material is worn out. A professional can usually stop the squeak. If it is time to replace, there are many great options. See ideal flooring options.

Foundation Pops and Groans

Loud pops or groaning beneath your home should not be ignored, especially if they continue. They can signal a foundation issue. Other warning signs include doors and windows that stick or develop large gaps.

Foundation damage is not always caused by poor construction. Soil composition and moisture, uneven settling over different soil types, tree roots, temperature changes and even vibration from heavy traffic can all play a role. If you suspect a problem, call a professional right away.

Scratching and Scurrying: Pests

Scratching in the walls or scurrying in the attic usually means pests. Mice, rats, squirrels and bats are common culprits.

• Beyond disease and the creepy factor, rodents chew. If they chew wiring, they can damage your electrical system and create a fire hazard.
• For an isolated mouse problem, simple traps from the hardware store may do the trick.
• Squirrels, bats (a protected species with removal rules) and ongoing rodent activity are jobs for pest professionals.
• After removal, ask the pros to find and seal entry points, or the problem will likely return.

Banging Pipes and Plumbing Noises

Plumbing problems range from a running toilet or dripping faucet to loose pipes.

• DIY fixes: if you are handy, toilet and faucet repairs are often simple, with inexpensive parts and plenty of online how-to videos. Think twice about projects that require shutting off water at the main unless you are experienced.
• Banging in the walls: loud banging when you turn off a faucet often means unsecured pipes. A plumber will need to open the wall to secure them.

If repairs uncover bigger plumbing issues in a bathroom, it may be the perfect time for the remodel you have been dreaming about. Since contractors will already be in your walls, talk with a design-build team about the possibilities. Browse our bathroom remodel projects.

Ready to Quiet Things Down?

Call Tracy Tesmer Design and Remodeling at 678-450-1700 or contact us online.