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 6 of 7: Address Sub-Surface Creaks

If the popping noise persists after addressing carpet adhesion, the issue may be with the wooden stairs themselves. Carefully inspect the wooden treads and risers for any visible cracks, loose boards, or signs of movement. Tap on the wood to listen for hollow sounds indicating looseness. You may need to access the underside of the stairs if possible (e.g., from a basement or attic) to drive screws or shims into the joists or stringers where the treads are attached.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Fix Popping Noises from Adhesive Carpet Treads on Wood Stairs

1. Step 1: Inspect Carpet Tread Noise

   • 0:00–0:17 Identify Squeak Location
   • 2:21–3:48 Diagnose Creaking Causes

2. Step 2: Examine Carpet Tread Adhesion

   • 0:00–0:04 Inspect Damaged Carpet Edge
   • 0:06–0:17 Inspect Loose Stair Nosing
   • 0:36–0:40 Apply Adhesive to Secure Carpet

3. Step 3: Clean Carpet Tread Underside and Stair Surface

   • 0:09–0:45 Prepare and Clean Stair Treads
   • 0:07–0:17 Apply Adhesive to Carpet and Subfloor
   • 0:00–0:05 Prepare the Loose Carpet Section

4. Step 4: Apply New Adhesive

   • 0:07–0:17 Apply Adhesive to Carpet and Subfloor
   • 0:04–0:08 Apply Spray Adhesive
   • 0:04–0:08 Apply Carpet Adhesive

5. Step 5: Reinforce Loose Carpet Edges (Optional)

   • 0:29–0:34 Secure Carpet Edge with Staples
   • 0:08–0:11 Secure Carpet at Bullnose with Stapler
   • 0:11–0:14 Secure Carpet with Staples

6. Step 6: Address Sub-Surface Creaks

   • 3:29–3:39 Eliminate Squeaks from Treads
   • 0:14–0:34 Fix Squeaks from Underneath with Shims
   • 1:24–2:44 Fix Squeaks on Carpeted Stairs (this video)

7. Step 7: Test Repaired Treads

   • 11:15–11:37 Final Inspection
   • 0:07–0:10 Test Stair Stability
   • 4:28–5:00 Test the Repaired Stairs