How to Fix Creaky Stairs - Easy DIY Fix Anyone Can Do!, by The DIY Guy on YouTube. 8 min 48 s.
- Video length
- 8 min 48 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Walk up and down the stairs and press on each tread to find the exact board that creaks. Mark the noisy spot with a pencil.
If you can reach underneath, look for gaps between the tread and the riser. A gap that opens when you stand on the step is the usual cause.
From above, lift the carpet edge or find the squeak through the pile. Drive two 50mm screws down through the tread into the riser, close to the noise.
Countersink the screw heads so they sit just below the surface. Stop when the tread pulls tight and the squeak stops.
From underneath, run a bead of wood glue into the gap between tread and riser. Push the joint tight and wipe off the excess.
Tap thin wood shims into any gap that will not close. Snap or cut them flush once the joint is tight.
Staple or glue a loose tread edge back down where it has lifted. Use a staple gun for a quick hold while the glue sets.
Test every step again. Add another screw or shim at any spot that still moves, then press the carpet back down.
Tips and common mistakes
Check for pipes and cables under the stairs before driving long screws.
Do not over tighten screws or you can crack the tread.
Fix the squeak before laying new carpet so you do not have to lift it twice.
Wear safety glasses when working overhead under the stairs.
Questions
Can I fix creaky stairs without lifting the carpet?
Yes. Find the squeak through the pile and drive screws down through the carpet and underlay into the tread and riser. The heads sink out of sight.
What if the squeak comes back?
A screw may have missed the joist or riser. Add another screw or glue and shim the joint until the tread stops moving.
Do I need special tools?
No. A drill or screwdriver, wood screws, glue and a few shims are enough for most creaks.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
