Fix Squeaks on Carpeted Stairs

What happens in this clip

For carpeted stairs where the underside is not accessible, you can try fixing the squeak from above. First, locate the stair stringer by feeling for it; it's typically 1.5 inches wide and usually runs in the center of the stair tread. Once located, carefully drive a screw through the carpet and the stair tread into the stringer. You should feel the screw pulling tight, indicating a successful connection. If the screw continues to turn without tightening or the squeak persists, you haven't hit the stringer effectively. This method is particularly effective with thicker, plush carpeting, as the screw head can often be hidden within the carpet pile.

Goal: Secure stair treads through carpet into the stringer

What's used

Tools

• Drill/Driver

Materials

• Screws

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 4 of 6: Address Loose Stringers

Stringers are the structural supports that run along the sides of the staircase. If a stringer has come loose from the wall framing, it can cause significant movement and squeaking. To fix this, you'll need to locate the point where the stringer meets a wall stud. Drive long wood screws from the back of the stringer into the stud, or from the stud into the stringer, to firmly re-secure it. This provides the necessary rigidity to prevent movement and eliminate the squeak. Again, ensure screws are appropriately sized to achieve a strong connection without damaging the surrounding wood or drywall.

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

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 (this video)

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