How to Level Stair Treads

Stairs become loose with age. Stair carriage stringers may sag or the risers become loose, causing the stair treads to slant. When the integrity of the stair is compromised, walking up or down the staircase can be dangerous. Prevent unnecessary trips or falls on a staircase by ensuring the stair treads are perfectly level.

Hammer
Screwdriver
Builder's level
Wooden shims
Heavy-grit sandpaper

Instructions

- 1
  Walk up and down the staircase and listen for squeaks or rattles. Reattach the treads and risers to the stair stringers wherever you hear noise on the staircase. Use a hammer to pound loose tread nails back in. Tighten loose tread screws with a screwdriver.
- 2
  Measure the level of each stair tread, using the builder's level. Gently insert a wooden shim between the stair treads and risers where the treads are out of level. Hammer the shims into place. Periodically check the treads for level while hammering in the shims.
- 3
  Break off any remainder of the shims sticking out from under the treads, using your hand or a hammer. Sand the edges of the shims with sandpaper until they are no longer noticeable. Re-check the level of each tread with the builder's level.

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