Quiet Your Stairs for Good with These 6 Quick Fixes

Creaky stairs can be annoying, especially when they disrupt a peaceful home or wake up sleeping family members. Whether it’s loose boards, worn-out fasteners, or just age-related wear and tear, there are simple ways to fix the problem. If you’re ready to stop the squeaks, here are six quick fixes to quiet your stairs for good.

1. Tighten Loose Screws and Nails

Over time, stair treads and risers can loosen, causing them to shift and create noise. Using a drill, tighten any loose screws or nails securing the steps. If you find nails popping up, replace them with screws for a more secure hold that won’t loosen as easily with movement.

Drilling screws into stairs.
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2. Apply Wood Glue or Construction Adhesive

Gaps between stair components can lead to creaking. Apply wood glue or construction adhesive along the edges where the treads meet the risers. Press the pieces together and let the adhesive dry completely before using the stairs again. This helps to reduce movement and eliminate the source of the noise.

Wood glue.
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3. Use Wood Shims for Added Stability

If your stairs have small gaps underneath the treads or along the sides, inserting thin wood shims can provide extra stability. Simply tap the shims into place with a hammer and secure them with wood glue. This prevents the stairs from shifting, which is a common cause of squeaking.

Wood shims.
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4. Sprinkle Baby Powder or Graphite Powder

Friction between wooden stair parts can also cause creaks. Sprinkling baby powder, graphite powder, or even baking soda into the seams can help reduce friction and silence the noise. Work the powder into the cracks using a soft brush or cloth for best results.

Baby powder.
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5. Install Carpet or Stair Runners

Hardwood stairs can amplify noise, so adding a carpet or stair runner can significantly reduce creaking. Not only does it absorb sound, but it also provides extra grip, making your stairs safer. Use double-sided carpet tape or a staple gun to secure the runner in place for a long-lasting fix.

Nailing carpet onto stairs.
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6. Reinforce the Stairs from Below

For a more permanent solution, inspect the underside of your stairs (if accessible) and reinforce any weak spots. Adding extra screws, wooden braces, or even small support blocks can help distribute weight more evenly and reduce movement that leads to noise.

Wood stairs.
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Creaky stairs don’t have to be a permanent nuisance. By tightening screws, applying adhesive, using wood shims, and trying other simple fixes, you can quiet your stairs quickly and effectively. Whether you need a fast solution or a long-term repair, these methods will help keep your home peaceful and squeak-free.