Question for the experts:
I have a 96yr old Spanish style home (future rental) and the stairs squeak - a lot. I am hoping to fix or minimize however, I have no access from below due to plaster ceiling and I don't want to open that can of worms.
I'm wondering if I could use a brad nail gun and try to firm up the risers. I might be able to hammer in some shims at the base of the risers or underneath the treads. But most importantly, I want to tile the risers with Talavera tiles (like pic below). My thoughts are that the tile/mortar will act as a firm base for the treads and help to eliminate the squeaks.
I'm on a tight budget so completely rebuilding the staircase is not an option for me. Any advice would be appreciated.
My Current Staircase:
I'm hoping to do this style of tiling the risers:
