I've tried everything I can think of to quiet my squeaky stairs, including screwing down runners and using lag screws to secure the stringers to the wall studs, but nothing seems to work. At this point, I'm considering fully replacing the stairs. Has anyone had success with a similar issue?
3 Answers
Honestly, you might just have to accept it as part of the charm of an old house! I kind of like the squeaky sound; it gives a cozy feeling, like a built-in home alarm system, haha!
Have you tried applying some subfloor adhesive underneath the runners before securing them? It can help lock everything in place and fill in any gaps that might be causing those pesky squeaks between the stringers and the treads. It might help!
If you have an older staircase, there might be wedges under the runner slots that have shrunk or loosened over time. Check the underside and tap those wedges back in or replace them if needed. Wood naturally expands and contracts, and that could be why you're hearing the noise. This method was commonly used by carpenters in the past to deal with creaky stairs.
That's interesting! I had no idea about the wedges. I might need to take a look under mine.
True! There's something nostalgic about creaky floors. Plus, it lets you know when someone’s coming!