Is your staircase creaking? Here's how to tackle a creaky staircase

A staircase that creaks here and there is quite normal. But does your staircase creak with every step? If so, that can be quite annoying. Sometimes you can fix the problem yourself temporarily using a few simple tools, but often the noise returns over time. Do you want a permanent solution? Then it’s a good idea to have your creaking staircase professionally repaired or refurbished.

A creaking staircase is usually caused by:

• Fluctuations in humidity and temperature – wood expands or contracts, causing gaps to form.
• Wear and tear or loose floorboards – the parts rub against each other and cause noise.
• Dust in the joints – this causes extra friction.

In some cases, a creaking staircase may even be a sign of rot or severe wear and tear. If your entire staircase creaks from top to bottom, it may need to be completely replaced.

As a temporary solution, you could try:

• Remove dust and re-glue – clean out the gaps and re-glue the wood.
• Use talcum powder – this reduces friction between the steps.
• Treat the wood – oil or floor wax can make dry wood more supple.
• Remove squeaky boards – loose or rusty squeaky boards often actually cause more noise.

These solutions often only work for a short time. The creaking usually returns as soon as weight is put on the stairs again.

Want to get rid of creaky stairs for good? Then opt for a staircase renovation. We install stair tread covers over the existing steps, making the staircase sturdier and reducing sagging. That alone reduces creaking. What’s more, our fitters always investigate the cause of the noise and address it straight away during the renovation. That way, you can be sure that your staircase not only looks beautiful, but is also sturdy and quiet again.

Are you fed up with the creaking? Book an appointment for a no-obligation consultation and find out how we can make your stairs quiet and stylish.