How to Fix Creaky Stairs - Easy DIY Fix Anyone Can Do!

Moments in this video

1. 2:21–3:48 Diagnose Creaking Causes From Squeaky Stair Repair, Step 1: Identify Squeak Source

   Before fixing, it's crucial to understand why stairs creak. Over time, timber warps, dries out, and moves, creating gaps. There are two primary locations where creaks originate: 1. **Riser-Tread Rebate**: The riser (vertical part) sits within a rebate (groove) in the tread (horizontal part). When the riser moves within this rebate as you walk up or down the stairs, it generates creaks. 2. **Tread-Riser Underside Gap**: Gaps can form between the bottom of the tread and the top of the riser below it. The tread moves up and down slightly, rubbing against the bottom of the riser, causing squeaks. The video notes that the majority of noise in the demonstrated stairs comes from the riser-tread rebate. Both issues will be addressed.

2. 2:21–3:48 Diagnose Creaking Causes From Squeaky Stair Repair, Step 2: Inspect for Loose Tread or Riser

   Before fixing, it's crucial to understand why stairs creak. Over time, timber warps, dries out, and moves, creating gaps. There are two primary locations where creaks originate: 1. **Riser-Tread Rebate**: The riser (vertical part) sits within a rebate (groove) in the tread (horizontal part). When the riser moves within this rebate as you walk up or down the stairs, it generates creaks. 2. **Tread-Riser Underside Gap**: Gaps can form between the bottom of the tread and the top of the riser below it. The tread moves up and down slightly, rubbing against the bottom of the riser, causing squeaks. The video notes that the majority of noise in the demonstrated stairs comes from the riser-tread rebate. Both issues will be addressed.

3. 6:22–6:49 Apply 5-Minute Wood Adhesive From How to Fix Squeaky Stairs from Underneath with Shims and Glue Blocks, Step 3: Apply Wood Glue

   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.

Guides that use this video

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