Trace the movement
Locate whether the sound comes from a tread, riser, stringer connection or a moving fastener.
Locate whether the sound comes from a tread, riser, stringer connection or a moving fastener.
Photos from above and below help determine which components can be reached without unnecessary finish damage.
Select fastening, blocking or joint treatment based on the moving connection—not the sound alone.

So, why do stairs start squeaking in the first place? It's usually pretty simple. Over time, the wood in your staircase shrinks and expands with changes in humidity. This can create tiny gaps between the stair parts—the treads (what you step on) and the risers (the vertical part). When you walk on them, the wood pieces rub against each other or the nails, and that's the squeak you hear. It's not usually a sign that your staircase is failing, but it's definitely annoying and can be a sign that things are getting loose.
It could be a loose tread rubbing against a riser, or the wood rubbing against the stringer, which is the side support board. Sometimes it’s just old nails that have lost their grip over the years. Whatever the cause, it’s a fixable problem.
Our approach is to find the exact source of the squeak and fix it right, so it doesn't come back. We don't just hammer in a few more nails. For wooden stairs, we often use special counter-sinking screws to pull the tread down tight against the riser and stringer, which completely stops the movement and the noise. We can fill the screw holes so you'll barely see them.
If the squeak is coming from the back, we can use construction adhesive and small wood blocks called glue blocks to reinforce the joint between the tread and riser. It’s a solid, long-term solution. And don't worry if you have carpeted stairs! We’ve got tools and techniques to fix the squeaks from underneath or with minimal disruption to your carpeting. Our goal is to solve the problem efficiently and leave your home as tidy as we found it. You'll be amazed at the difference a quiet staircase makes.
Repair expectations: Repair appearance depends on the condition of the surrounding floor and the availability of compatible matching material.
Book a consultation and we will walk you through materials, timelines, and pricing—without pressure.
Photos are encouraged: upload a few clear project photos with the form to help us understand your space and prepare a more useful response.
Verified feedback from local homeowners.
"Delight flooring exceeded my expectations in all respects. Rudy came to my house to provide the samples followed by installation a few days later. The product Delight Flooring carries is high quality and the service is impeccable. The installation team is very accommodating and is excellent at what they do. The next time I need new floors delight flooring is my number one choice. Great work!!!!"
HomeOwner • 30 Dec 2013 • HomeStars"I needed 2 rooms laminated, and contacted Delight flooring. They promptly came to give me a fair estimate, and just days later completed the rooms to perfection. Great workers, quality materials, and professional from beginning to end. Highly recommended."
shane • 10 Oct 2013 • HomeStars"Rudy and his team were great to work with. They are efficient, accommodating, fair in price and courteous. They supplied and installed hardwood flooring throughout our entire house, refinished our railings and replaced the pickets. We thought the step-down in our sunken living room would be difficult to fix and complete, but Rudy did a beautiful job and we couldn't be happier!"
HomeOwner • 24 Jul 2017 • HomeStars