Father Christmas risks being discovered at any time, it has emerged, with news that two thirds of all UK homes suffer from squeaky stairs.

The poll, conducted by OnePoll on behalf of the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) Stair Scheme, found that while 30% of people know where the squeaks are and carefully avoid a squeaky step or floorboard, another third of people don’t bother avoiding it at all. Only 35% of people said their stairs were squeak-free.

Squeaky stairs are caused by problems with timber joints, as the noise comes from the treads rubbing against the risers and stringers. Other causes of squeaky stairs include cheap manufacture and poor design and installation.

“Throughout the year, the Stair Scheme member companies work hard to raise the quality and standards of timber stairs,” said Iain McIlwee, chief executive of the BWF. “Together we are spreading the word about best practice in stair design, specification and installation. Households with a Stair Scheme stair will definitely be Santa’s favourites this Christmas.”

To find out more, visit http://www.bwf.org.uk/choose-wood/stairs.