How To: Put a Stop to Squeaky Floors

Squeaky floors are typical of older homes where areas of the floor have settled in after years of use. Unfortunately, squeaks can also be heard in newer homes when floors weren't installed correctly or with the proper clearances.

The majority of squeaks come from the top of the floor joist and the bottom surface of the subfloor. Typically nails were used to attach the floor joists to the subfloor rather than screws. Over time these nails start pulling up, creating a space for the areas to rub, which causes the squeak.

If you've got hardwood floors, some people swear by the trick of spreading baby powder on the floor with hopes it seeps into the spaces between the floor boards and eases the rubbing -- hence silencing the floor. But for a more permanent solution, there is a product called Counter Snap that leaves a screw countersunk, attaching the floorboard to a joist below, which tightens the floor.

For carpeted floors, the Squeeeek No More is the most popular solution as it's easy to implement and doesn't require tearing the carpet back or other unsightly hacks.