Squeaking stairs can be very annoying. Just imagine the irritating noise that loose steps can create. You can have it fixed by seeking the services of professionals. However, they can be very expensive considering the minimal effort necessary to get the problem solved. Be able to solve such problems by learning how to fix squeaking stairs.
Materials Needed
The materials needed for this moderate task include a hammer, 2-inch coarse-thread drywall screws and wax-filler sticks. Aside from these, prepare a quarter-round molding, a drill and driver as well as 4d finishing nails. In addition, be sure to bring in graphite or talcum powder, cloth, utility knife or saw and wood glue. You can also purchase product like Counter Snap if you have hardwood stairs or Squeeeeek No More for stairs that are covered with carpet.
Steps
For this job, you first need to work from below, after which you can proceed to the top part. From below, you need to cut ¾-inch quarter-round moldings, specifically for noise coming from the nose of the tread. Cover them with glue and then nail them into the inner part created by the riser and tread.
If the noise is coming from the rear part of the tread, get the drill and driver and then use it to put a pilot hole at the back part of the riser all the way to the tread. Connect the two parts using a 2-inch screw. This will remove any kind of friction. If necessary, install more screws.
From above, push a nail through the tread and to the top of the riser. Nailing this can be difficult. To make it easier, drill a hole first with a smaller diameter before putting a nail. Put at least a couple of nails, which must be approximately 2 inches away from each other. To achieve maximum holding power, push the nails in opposing 45-degree angles.
As an alternative, you can use either the Counter Snap or Squeeeeek No More fastening systems depending on the type of stairs. You can remove the sight of holes by using color-matched wax filler sticks. Use dry cloth to buff away wax residues. For cracks that are located at the rear end of the tread, stop the squeaking by putting talcum powder or graphite.
Additional Tips and Other Helpful Information
It is important to angle nails when hammering. This can prevent the nails from penetrating the face of the riser or tread.
