Top step in the stairs making a loud,woody noise when stepped on it!

[meganfurley]

Hi
My apologies for being ignorant about stairs and how to repair them.
I have a carpeted set of steps leading to the bedrooms in the house (15 year old).Since yesterday,everytime someone is coming down the stairs, the very first step makes a louder,woody noise. What does it mean and what kind of problems should I be aware of.Can I leave it out for the next few weeks or does it need to be sorted out quickly? Is it something I can possibly do(I am not good but not bad either at DIY) or should I be calling someone to sort it out? Any help welcome indeed. Megan

 

[Burnerman]

If you could see behind the stairs Megan, you'd find the treads and risers would be wedged tightly in place in their grooves - or at least they should be.
If the wedges fall out due to age or whatever, the treads etc become loose. However, they can't fall out so I wouldn't panic about it!
John

 

[meganfurley]

If you could see behind the stairs Megan, you'd find the treads and risers would be wedged tightly in place in their grooves - or at least they should be.
If the wedges fall out due to age or whatever, the treads etc become loose. However, they can't fall out so I wouldn't panic about it!
John

Thanks John That's a relief. But it does mean I need to get someone to look at it I guess. Hmmm. Anyway Merry Chistmas to you!

 

[Burnerman]

One sort of fix is to remove the carpet, and fix the offending tread to the riser below it using some fairly hefty screws - 3 or 4 would do.
Presumably getting behind the stairs is a no - no?
Happy Xmas to you!
John