I was at the Encore back in April and the work being done was more than extensive. They were extending the hotel upwards and keeping the place open. It was impossible to stay in the building between 8am and 6pm due to the constant drilling. The creaking was still a problem then, I was on the first floor and the room hadn't been done then, not sure what they are like now but going by the pictures on the IHG website the wooden flooring has been replaced with carpet which can only help.