Loose Stairs

Figure A (Click to enlarge) Figure B (Click to enlarge) Figure C (Click to enlarge) Figure D (Click to enlarge) Figure E (Click to enlarge)

Help Around the House host Henry Harrison shows how to use blocks and screws to tighten down a wobbly step that has become a safety hazard (figure A). On his elbow grease scale of one to four, Harrison gives this project a one.

Tools:

hammer
power drill with screwdriver attachment
safety goggles
shims
heavy-duty glue
screws

Steps:

1. Track down the loose step or steps, with one person walking up and down the stairs while another stands beneath the stairs to identify the loose treads.

2. Tighten the gap between block and tread by inserting a shim with an all-purpose adhesive (figure B).

3. Drive a screw straight through the riser into the tread to lock the two together (figure C). Be sure to pre-drill all screw holes.

4. Secure the spacer block to the wall with screws (figure D).

5. Drill and screw the riser into the wall with two screws. Start by drilling a hole, then slowly angling the drill over to create a pocket, then drill into the wall at an angle (figure E). Be very careful, and work slowly or the drill bit will snap.

6. Test the steps.

Also in this Episode

Help Around the House : Episode ARH-219
•	Carpet Patch
•	Loose Stairs
•	Drawer Fronts
•	Caulk Chat