Why staircases start to creak
Creaking treads are usually caused by timber movement over the years, fixings working loose, or the tread rubbing against the string or riser as the staircase has settled. It is rarely a sign of anything structurally wrong, but it is annoying and worth sorting, especially on a staircase used many times a day.
We identify where the movement is coming from, which can mean working from above, below, or both, and fix or reinforce the joint so the tread stops moving.
Sometimes a squeak only appears on one or two steps, which usually points to a specific loose joint rather than a problem affecting the whole staircase, so a full repair is not normally needed.
Loose or broken spindles
Spindles take a surprising amount of knocking over the years, from vacuum cleaners to furniture being carried up and down. A loose spindle is a simple repair, usually a case of re-securing the top and bottom fixings, but a cracked or broken one needs replacing.
Matching replacement spindles
Where a spindle needs replacing, we try to match the existing profile so the staircase looks consistent rather than having one odd spindle standing out. Many standard profiles are easy to source, but older or more decorative turned spindles sometimes need a closer look before we can confirm a match.
If an exact match is not available, we will usually suggest replacing a small run of spindles rather than just one, so any slight difference is far less noticeable across the staircase.
- Matching turned or stop-chamfered profiles
- Re-securing loose top and bottom fixings
- Replacing cracked or broken spindles
Wobbly handrails and newel posts
A handrail or newel post that moves when you lean on it is a safety issue as much as an annoyance. We check how the post is fixed to the floor or string and reinforce or refix it, and tighten or replace the handrail brackets so the whole run feels solid again.
Carpet and timber stairs
Carpeted stairs can hide a lot of what is happening underneath, so a creak that seems to come from nowhere is often easier to diagnose once a board can be checked from below, for example through a cupboard under the stairs. On an exposed timber staircase, the cause is usually easier to see and treat directly, since the joints and fixings are visible rather than hidden under covering.
Checking the whole staircase while we are there
When we are asked to look at one noisy tread, it is worth checking the rest of the staircase at the same time, since loose fixings elsewhere may not be making a noise yet but could do eventually. A short check of the spindles, handrail and other treads while access is already available can catch a problem early, before it becomes something more noticeable or awkward to fix.
Safety for children and older relatives
Stairs get used by everyone in the house, including children and older relatives who may rely more on a steady handrail. Sorting out a wobbly rail or a spindle gap that is wider than it should be is a worthwhile job for peace of mind, not just appearance. A handrail that only runs partway up a long flight is also worth reviewing, since extending it can make a real difference on a staircase used by someone less steady on their feet.
If you have a repair you have been putting off, call Micky on 07735 852901 and we can take a look.
Repainting or varnishing afterwards
Once repairs are done, new or patched timber often needs painting or varnishing to blend in with the rest of the staircase. We can finish this as part of the same job through our painting and decorating service, matching the existing colour or sheen where possible.
We are also happy to combine a staircase repair with other carpentry on your list, such as skirting at the base of the stairs through our skirting and architrave service, so everything is finished and painted together.