How do you effectively stop hardwood floor squeaks?

To effectively stop hardwood floor squeaks, locate gaps or movement in the subfloor or joists and secure them with screws or nails to eliminate flex. This structural tightening reduces board movement and noise. A common professional method is performing a squeak check from beneath the floor to identify problem areas before repairs. Once the structure is stabilized, refinishing or installing a new floor covering will create a quiet, lasting surface without ongoing squeaks.