Identify Squeak Causes and Mark Fixings

What happens in this clip

The presenter explains that squeaks are primarily caused by movement at the front edge where the tread meets the riser, and at the back edge where the tread meets the riser below. This movement results from wood drying out and wedges loosening over time. To address this, an adjustable set square is used to find the approximate midpoint of the joint between the tread and the riser. This measurement (e.g., 8mm) determines how far from the edge of the tread the screws should be placed. Use a piece of scrap wood as a guide and a pencil to draw a straight line along the tread, where the screws will be inserted, ensuring a consistent distance from the edge.

Goal: Understand where and why stair squeaks occur (movement between tread and riser) and mark the precise locations on the treads for drilling new screw fixings.

What's used

Tools

• Adjustable Set Square
• Drill
• Pencil
• Straight Edge (e.g.
• piece of wood)

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 1 of 6: Locate Squeaky Tread

From underneath the staircase, have an assistant walk up and down the stairs. Carefully listen to pinpoint the exact location of the squeak. You'll want to identify the tread (the horizontal part you step on) and the riser (the vertical part between treads) that are moving against each other or against the stringer (the support beam for the stairs). Mark the area with a pencil if necessary for easy reference.

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 (this video)

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
   • 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