Apply Screws or Blocks for Stability

What happens in this clip

To fix squeaky stairs, the video recommends using screws instead of nails, as nails are often the original cause of the squeak due to loosening over time. If access is available from the underside of the staircase (e.g., in a basement or crawlspace), a more robust solution involves gluing and screwing small wooden blocks into the corners where the stair tread meets the stringer. This method effectively prevents movement and eliminates squeaking.

Goal: Secure stair treads to prevent movement using screws or wooden blocks

What's used

Tools

• Drill/Driver

Materials

• Screws
• Wood Glue
• Wooden Blocks

About the full video

This video explains the common causes of squeaky stair treads and provides DIY solutions to eliminate them. The primary method involves driving screws through the stair tread into the stringer to prevent movement and rubbing, which are the main sources of squeaking. It also briefly mentions a more robust solution for situations where the underside of the staircase is accessible.

Step 2 of 6: Access from Above

Depending on the construction of your staircase and the floor above, you may need to access the underside of the stairs to address the squeak. This is often the most effective way to secure loose components. If you have a basement or crawl space below the stairs, you can likely get underneath. In some cases, access might be gained from an attic space if the stairs are near the top of the house. The goal is to be able to see and reach the area where the tread meets the riser or stringer, or where the riser meets the stringer, which are common points of squeaking.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Fix Squeaky Hardwood Stairs from Above

1. Step 1: Locate Squeak Source

   • 0:00–1:23 Identify Squeak Source
   • 2:46–5:26 Identify Squeak Points and Mark Drilling Guides
   • 0:44–1:08 Identify Squeak and Gather Materials for PVA Method

2. Step 2: Access from Above

   • 0:14–0:34 Fix Squeaks from Underneath with Shims
   • 0:03–1:05 Identify and Prepare Problem Area
   • 0:56–1:24 Apply Screws or Blocks for Stability (this video)

3. Step 3: Secure Loose Tread/Riser

   • 6:29–7:31 Drive Screws to Secure Tread to Riser
   • 6:13–6:27 Secure Front Treads with Screws
   • 2:05–4:08 Reinforce Risers and Treads with Adhesive and Timber

4. Step 4: Address Loose Stringers

   • 0:09–0:13 Secure Lower Stringer Section
   • 0:56–1:24 Apply Screws or Blocks for Stability
   • 1:24–2:44 Fix Squeaks on Carpeted Stairs

5. Step 5: Test for Squeaks

   • 4:28–5:00 Test the Repaired Stairs
   • 0:46–0:52 Fix Squeaks on Hardwood Stairs with Screws and Putty
   • 11:15–11:37 Final Inspection

6. Step 6: Conceal Screw Heads (Optional)

   • 1:12–1:17 Conceal Screw Holes
   • 0:22–0:30 Fill Screw Holes with Wood Putty
   • 4:26–4:39 Conceal Screw Heads