How to Fix a Loose Wooden Step

Is there anything more annoying in this world than a loose wooden step in your staircase? Every time you pass by it, you hear a creaking sound. Not only is it irritating, but it is also a danger for the members of your household. Families with young kids running around the house can never leave this problem unfixed. It poses a severe threat to the safety of the kids, even the adults, of the family.  

We will show you how you can fix loose wooden steps on your own!

Step 1: Prepare the necessary materials.

These materials are essential for this Do-It-Yourself repair. You will need an air compressor, screws, drill, wood glue, woodblocks, carriage bolt, wrench, hammer, threaded rod, utility knife, and a pry bar.  

Step 2: Figure out where the loose wooden step is.  

The next thing to do is to determine the extent of the damage. Make sure you have pinpointed all the loose steps all at once so you can fix them together. It takes a lot of time to fix a loose step, so it is better to do it in one go. Be wary of squeaking sounds when you step on the stairs. Check the diagonal part of the stairs as well to check the stringers if they are damaged.  

Step 3: Clean the area you will be working on.

           To make sure the repair is seamless. You need to ensure that the area is clear of dirt. Use an air compressor to clean the space thoroughly. It is challenging to work on a stair step if the spaces are filled with debris.  

Step 4: Rip the drywall and remove the nails. 

           Using a hammer or pry bar, remove the drywall out. After which, proceed to remove the nails. Check out the bottom of the risers for nails as well. Once the innards are out in the open, it becomes easier to check where the damage is.  

Step 5: Drill the holes into the woodblocks. 

           The next step is to drill holes into the block of wood. Then, drill another hole that will fit a rounded headed bolt into the backside of the wood. You have to determine the correct width of the stairs to guarantee the correct measurement of the threaded rod and bolts. Leave room to tighten the threads into the coupling.  

Step 6: Insert the rods. 

Once the holes are ready, it is time to put the rod through the block into the countersunk bolt. After that, using wood glue and screws, attach the block to the wall-side stringer. Then, attach the block and bolt at the opposing side.  

Step 7: Tighten the bolts.  

Using a wrench, make sure that the bolts are tight. Call someone to help you guide with the risers and treads back in as you fix the rod.  

Step 8: Replace the drywall you removed. 

Install new drywall to finish off the repair. Caulk any loose joints in the area. Inspect the repair for any possible mistakes and test out the step if the repair is successful.   

With all these steps provided, you can fix loose steps on your own. However, we strongly recommend that you leave the matter to the experts. Why? First of all, not everyone has all the equipment necessary for this repair. Second, we are talking about the stairs in your house. There are numerous accidents each year caused by broken stair steps. You do not want to add to those statistics. Lastly, you have to admit that repairing a loose step is a hassle. It is better for you to sit back and relax and let the professionals take care of it. That way, you ensure not only the safety of your family but also the quality work.  

iStairs is a one-stop-shop for all your stairway needs. From repairs to installation, there is nothing we cannot do! Call us at 844- STAIR-4U to get a quote!