How to Fix Squeaky Stairs

Moments in this video

1. 4:46–5:44 Attach Support Blocks and Secure Wedges From Squeaky Stair Repair, Step 6: Secure from Underside (if accessible)

   With the pilot holes pre-drilled, it's time to secure the support blocks. Start by driving one screw through the block into the riser to hold the block firmly in place. This allows you to remove your hand for the second screw. Then, drive the second screw into the other pilot hole in the block, ensuring the block is fully secured to the riser. Next, take one of your smaller wedge pieces. Apply wood glue generously to the flat, angled side of the wedge that will contact the riser and the angled surface of the block. Position the wedge so its flat side is facing upwards, against the underside of the tread, and its angled side mates with the block's angled side. Push the wedge gently into place. Use a blunt object, such as the end of a hammer or a small piece of wood, and lightly tap it with a mallet or hammer to drive the wedge firmly into the space between the block and the underside of the tread. As the wedge is driven in, it will lift the tread slightly, pressing it firmly against the riser and eliminating movement. Wipe away any excess wood glue that squeezes out immediately with a damp rag. Repeat these steps for all the blocks you've prepared for each squeaky tread. Ensure each block and wedge system is secure and the glue is setting.

2. 4:46–5:44 Attach Support Blocks and Secure Wedges From How to Fix Squeaky Stairs from Underneath with Shims and Glue Blocks, Step 4: Insert and Secure Shims

   With the pilot holes pre-drilled, it's time to secure the support blocks. Start by driving one screw through the block into the riser to hold the block firmly in place. This allows you to remove your hand for the second screw. Then, drive the second screw into the other pilot hole in the block, ensuring the block is fully secured to the riser. Next, take one of your smaller wedge pieces. Apply wood glue generously to the flat, angled side of the wedge that will contact the riser and the angled surface of the block. Position the wedge so its flat side is facing upwards, against the underside of the tread, and its angled side mates with the block's angled side. Push the wedge gently into place. Use a blunt object, such as the end of a hammer or a small piece of wood, and lightly tap it with a mallet or hammer to drive the wedge firmly into the space between the block and the underside of the tread. As the wedge is driven in, it will lift the tread slightly, pressing it firmly against the riser and eliminating movement. Wipe away any excess wood glue that squeezes out immediately with a damp rag. Repeat these steps for all the blocks you've prepared for each squeaky tread. Ensure each block and wedge system is secure and the glue is setting.

3. 5:45–6:01 Test the Repaired Stairs From How to Fix Squeaky Stairs from Underneath with Shims and Glue Blocks, Step 5: Test for Squeaks

   Once all the support blocks and wedges have been installed and the glue has had some time to set (refer to the wood glue's drying time instructions), carefully walk up and down the stairs. Pay close attention to the areas where squeaks were previously present. You should notice a significant reduction or complete elimination of the noisy squeaks. The added support from the mini-risers and the tight fit of the wedges will prevent the tread from moving against the riser, thus silencing the stairs.

Guides that use this video

• Squeaky Stair Repair
• How to Fix Squeaky Stairs from Underneath with Shims and Glue Blocks