What Is Creaky Stairs?

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Lee has over two decades of hands-on experience remodeling, fixing, and improving homes, and has been providing home improvement advice for over 12 years. Stairs are a complex system comprised of many elements—treads, risers, balusters, railing, and more. When you have creaky stairs, those creaks might be coming from any one of those many pieces.

What to do when your steps squeak on the stairs?

Stick a shim into tiny gaps. When your partner steps on a tread and causes a squeak, look for a gap between the tread and riser or the tread and stringer. If you see a small one, worm a shim’s thinner edge in between the two parts. Use a hammer to gently tap the thicker end until the shim is firmly in place.

How can I tell if my carpet is creaking?

Check for creaks by walking slowly along the carpet. Tap the floor very gently with a hammer, listening for the difference between a hollow sound and a firm sound. The firm sound indicates the location of a floor joist.