Final Gap Filling and Tread Reinforcement

What happens in this clip

After all the necessary timber pieces have been installed and secured, and all major gaps filled, double-check for any remaining small gaps between the original stair structure (treads and risers). Inject additional 'Lumberjack Wood Adhesive Professional Grade' into these smaller gaps. The expanding nature of this adhesive will fill these voids, further reducing any potential movement that could lead to squeaking. Finally, drive 'Turbo Gold Screws' directly through the risers into the back of the treads where there is still movement, to create an even more solid and secure connection.

Goal: Eliminate any remaining movement and secure all stair components.

What's used

Tools

• Cordless Drill DeWalt
• Impact driver
• Protective Gloves
• Nitrile gloves
• Safety Glasses
• Sealant Gun

Materials

• Lumberjack Wood Adhesive Professional Grade Lumberjack
• Polyurethane wood glue
• Turbo Gold Screws Turbo Gold
• Decking screws

About the full video

This project demonstrates a method to eliminate squeaky stairs by reinforcing the treads and risers from underneath. The process involves removing any existing inadequate braces, applying an expanding wood adhesive into gaps, and then screwing solid timber pieces to securely connect the risers and treads, thereby stopping movement and noise.

Step 4 of 6: Insert and Secure Shims

Carefully tap the glued shims into the identified gaps using a hammer. The goal is to create a snug fit that eliminates any looseness. Once the shims are in place and the movement is reduced or eliminated, you can add glue blocks. Cut small triangular blocks of wood and glue them in the corners where the tread meets the riser and stringer, providing extra support and further preventing movement. You can also drive short screws through the stringer into the tread or riser if needed, but be careful not to split the wood or penetrate through the visible side of the tread.

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)
   • 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 (this video)
   • 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