Secure Lower Stringer Section

What happens in this clip

Move to the lower section of the stair stringer. Using the same impact driver and an SDWS Timber Screw, drive another screw at a significant downward angle through the stringer and into the adjacent wall stud. This opposing angle to the first screw (driven upward) creates a powerful 'X' pattern or cross-bracing effect in terms of fastening. This dual-angle approach effectively 'locks' the stringer in place, preventing both upward and downward movement, and eliminating any potential for friction and thus, squeaks.

Goal: Attach the lower portion of the stair stringer to the wall stud using a structural timber screw at a downward angle.

What's used

Tools

• Impact Driver Makita
• Safety Glasses
• SDWS Timber Screw Simpson Strong-Tie
• Stair Stringer
• Wall Stud

About the full video

This project details a crucial method for preventing stair squeaks by securely attaching stair stringers to the adjacent wall framing. By using structural timber screws and driving them at opposing angles, any potential movement of the stringer is eliminated, thereby preventing the common issue of squeaking stairs in new or existing construction.

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 (this video)
   • 0:56–1:24 Apply Screws or Blocks for Stability
   • 1:24–2:44 Fix Squeaks on Carpeted Stairs

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