Apply 5-Minute Wood Adhesive

What happens in this clip

If you encounter larger gaps (more than a millimeter) between the tread and the riser below it, standard PVA glue might not be sufficient. In such cases, use a 5-minute wood adhesive (like "Lumberjack Wood Adhesive" mentioned in the video). This type of glue hardens quickly and foams up to fill larger voids. Squeeze the adhesive directly into the gap. Once it sets, any excess foam can be easily taken off.

Goal: Fill any larger gaps between the tread and the riser below it.

What's used

Tools

• 5-Minute Wood Adhesive 5 MIN Lumberjack
• Expanding foam adhesive

About the full video

This DIY project provides a step-by-step guide to fix creaky stairs without needing access from underneath. The process involves removing the carpet and underlay, diagnosing the causes of creaks (movement in the tread-riser rebate and gaps between tread and riser), and then securely bonding and screwing these components together using various adhesives and screws. The final steps include reinstalling the underlay and carpet.

Step 3 of 6: Apply Wood Glue

Once you've identified the rubbing points (usually where the tread meets the riser or the stringer), apply a generous amount of wood glue to these surfaces. If you're addressing a gap, apply glue to the edges of the shim material and the surfaces it will contact. This glue will help to bond the parts together and further reduce friction and noise.

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 (this video)

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