Apply Wood Glue (Back Risers)

What happens in this clip

Before adding mechanical fasteners to the back risers, apply a generous bead of wood glue along the entire seam where the top of each riser meets the underside of the tread above it. The goal is for the glue to seep into any gaps and expand slightly as it dries, creating a strong bond and further eliminating movement. Allow the glue a few minutes to settle before proceeding with drilling.

Goal: Apply a bead of wood glue along the back edge of each riser where it meets the tread above to provide additional bonding and reduce movement.

What's used

Materials

• Wood Glue (e.g.
• Evo-Stik Wood Glue)

About the full video

This project provides detailed instructions on how to eliminate squeaks and creaks from old wooden stairs by securing loose treads and risers using screws and wood glue. The process involves removing existing carpet and gripper rods, marking and drilling pilot holes for new fasteners, applying wood glue, and then re-installing the carpet and underlay.

Step 3 of 6: Apply Wood Glue

Once you've identified the rubbing points (usually where the tread meets the riser or the stringer), apply a generous amount of wood glue to these surfaces. If you're addressing a gap, apply glue to the edges of the shim material and the surfaces it will contact. This glue will help to bond the parts together and further reduce friction and noise.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Fix Squeaky Stairs from Underneath with Shims and Glue Blocks

1. Step 1: Locate Squeaky Tread

   • 0:14–0:34 Fix Squeaks from Underneath with Shims
   • 0:13–0:20 Locate Squeaky Floor Section
   • 2:45–5:32 Identify Squeak Causes and Mark Fixings

2. Step 2: Prepare Shim Material

   • 0:14–0:34 Fix Squeaks from Underneath with Shims
   • 0:15–0:38 Shim Gaps from Underside
   • 3:09–3:51 Tighten Loose Risers with Shims

3. Step 3: Apply Wood Glue

   • 6:40–7:13 Apply Wood Glue (Back Risers) (this video)
   • 0:22–0:34 Apply Wood Glue
   • 6:22–6:49 Apply 5-Minute Wood Adhesive

4. Step 4: Insert and Secure Shims

   • 4:46–5:44 Attach Support Blocks and Secure Wedges
   • 4:08–4:28 Final Gap Filling and Tread Reinforcement
   • 3:09–3:51 Tighten Loose Risers with Shims

5. Step 5: Test for Squeaks

   • 4:28–5:00 Test the Repaired Stairs
   • 0:14–0:34 Fix Squeaks from Underneath with Shims
   • 5:45–6:01 Test the Repaired Stairs

6. Step 6: Clean Up

   • 10:52–11:00 Clean Up Mess
   • 13:42–14:26 Clean Glue Squeeze-out