How to fix squeaky stairs with glue?
Ideally, the best way to address squeaky stairs is by accessing the underside of the staircase. From there, you can re-glue loose blocks, insert wedges, and generally tighten up the entire structure.
How to Fix Squeaky Stairs With Glue from Underside
When a staircase is first built, the components fit tightly together, but as the years pass, the wood dries out and shrinks. This shrinkage can cause gaps to form between the stair treads and risers, leading to movement and the dreaded squeaks. Additionally, the presence of central heating can accelerate the drying process, exacerbating the issue.
Total Time: 3 hours
Step 1: Identify the Source of the Squeak
Locate the area where the squeak is coming from, which is usually caused by a gap between the joist (the structural support beam) and the subfloor (the layer of flooring beneath the finished surface).
Step 2: Access the Underside of the Stairs
Go to the area beneath the stairs where you can see the joists and subfloor. This may require removing a ceiling panel or accessing a basement or crawl space.
Step 3: Clean the Gap
Remove any debris or dust from the gap between the joist and subfloor to ensure proper adhesion of the glue.
Step 4: Apply the Liquid Nails
Using a caulking gun, apply a generous amount of heavy-duty liquid nails along the entire length of the gap. Make sure to apply enough glue to fill the gap completely.
Step 5: Spread the Glue
Using a putty knife or your finger, spread the glue evenly along the gap, ensuring it fills the space entirely. The glue should look smooth and well-distributed.
Step 6: Glue and Screw in Some Battens Underneath the Stairs
The idea is to stop the movement in the step treads and risers by screwing the risers into the back of the step treads. We’ve already applied Liquid Nails to make it solid. On top of that, you can add batten on the bottom and one on the side, which is screwed to the batten on the right. This will make the stairs completely solid.
Step 7: Apply Spray Foam
The straw applicator makes any project a breeze and helps you deliver the right amount of insulating foam even in hard-to-reach spaces between stairs.
Estimated Cost: 20 USD
Supply:
- Liquid Nails Heavy Duty Construction Adhesive
- Spray Foam
Tools:
- Nail Gun
Materials: Nails Hammer
Recommended Adhesive and Spray Foam
Here are the materials I used in the above tutorial:
However, in many cases, accessing the underside is not feasible without removing drywall or plasterboard, which can be a messy and time-consuming process that not every homeowner is willing to undertake.
Fixing the Squeaky Stairs from the Top
Next, inspect each stair tread and riser for gaps or movement. Even if not all treads are currently squeaking, it’s a good idea to address all of them to prevent future issues. Using a pocket hole jig, drill angled holes through the front of the tread, ensuring that the screw will enter the riser at the correct depth and angle. Test your technique on a scrap piece of wood first to avoid any mishaps.
Before securing the treads, apply a bead of expanding polyurethane glue along the back of the tread where it meets the riser. This glue will help fill any gaps and provide additional stability.
Then, drive the stainless steel decking screws through the angled holes, pulling the tread snugly against the riser. Be cautious not to overtighten the screws, especially when working with MDF, as it can be prone to stripping.
Repeat this process for each tread, using multiple screws if necessary. Once all the treads are secured, you can reinstall the carpet, starting from the bottom of the staircase and working your way up. Use the marks you made earlier to ensure proper positioning of the gripper rods.
Conslusion
While fixing squeaky stairs from the top can be a bit more challenging than accessing the underside, it is still a viable solution for many homeowners. By following these steps and taking your time, you can eliminate those annoying squeaks and enjoy a quieter, more peaceful home. Remember to always prioritize safety and wear appropriate protective gear when working with tools and adhesives.
I’m Ronald Stevens, a Mechanical Engineer obsessed with adhesives, glue, and all things sticky! My passion began in childhood when I’d always be the one playing with glue during arts and crafts. And I’d spend hours researching and experimenting. Happy reading, and remember: stick with the best, and you’ll never be stuck in a mess!
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