What can I do to fix my squeaky and slightly wobbly stairs?

Do you have squeaky and slightly wobbly stairs, with a little movement noticeable every time you go up and down them? It’s a common issue.

Whether caused by shrinkage of the timber treads over time, general wear and tear, or improper installation, it’s a problem that advanced DIYers can resolve with a little patience and the right tools.

If you don’t have the tools, time, or expertise to carry this job out, but you’d do anything to get rid of that haunting creak in your stairs, connect with an experienced local carpenter by entering your postcode below.

How to fix squeaky and slightly wobbling stairs with a little movement

The first step (pun intended) is to locate the source of the noise by walking up and down the stairs until you identify the problem steps. As you walk, feel for movement and listen for squeaks.

Once you’ve found the source of the noise, it’s time to figure out what’s causing the noise and/or movement. Common causes include loose treads, risers, or the screws fixing them.

• Visually inspect the stairs for gaps between the treads and the risers or the treads and the stringers. Gaps often mean that parts of the stairs have dried and shrunk over time
• Also, check the fasteners to see if there are any loose screws. Apply some pressure to different parts of the tread to determine where the squeak is loudest, as this can tell you whether it’s an issue with the tread or its connection to the riser or stringer

You also have to use a bit of deductive reasoning when diagnosing the problem. For example, if the squeaks get louder in winter or summer, it could be due to the wood contracting and expanding.

Take a look at our step-by-step guide on how to fix squeaky stairs.

Remember, if you need help with this task or you have a complex issue that you aren’t sure how to resolve, enter your postcode below to connect with quality carpenters in your area.