How to Remove Squeaks From Wooden Steps
Squeaky steps can be rather annoying, especially in the middle of the night. What may start out as a little squeak can soon turn into a loud noise every time someone places his foot on the problem step. Old steps are notorious for squeaking, but it is also common to find some steps that squeak in newer homes. The most common two reasons for squeaky steps is either a loose nail or the wood has contracted and expanded so many times that it has become loose in some spots and tight in others. You can save a ton of money by fixing the squeaky step on your own instead of hiring a professional carpenter. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Power drill
- Galvanized screws (at least one inch long)
- Wood glue
- Wood blocks (approx. 1 inch-by- 2 ½ inches)
- Wood putty
- Putty knife
Instructions
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Top of the Stair Repair
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1
Examine the squeaky stair to locate the squeaky area. Most commonly, the problem is in the tread section (the part of the step that you walk on). You can also locate squeaking from the side; it means that the whole tread section is moving. This can help you determine if the actual structure of the step is in danger of collapsing.
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2
Drill two holes at each end of the tread section for a moving tread that squeaks at the end. Make sure that you are drilling into the frame of the steps.
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3
Change bits in the drill and add a screw into each one of the holes that you drilled.
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4
Cover the holes with a matching color wood putty, using the putty knife, and allow it to dry.
Under the Step Repair
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5
Check for loose or missing wood blocks that should be located where the underneath of the tread and the riser meet.
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6
Replace missing screws and tighten loose screws that are holding these blocks into place.
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7
Replace any missing wood blocks in the positions where they are missing. Start by drilling three holes into the wood block; one on the side that will be against the tread and two into the side that will be against the riser.
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8
Add wood glue to the sides of the wood block that will meet the undersides of the steps.
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9
Add the screw into the hole that will attach the wood block to the tread first. Then add the two side screws that attach the side to the riser.
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