ᐅ Billy Regal doors squeaking despite lubrication? Other possible causes?

Hello everyone, I have a Billy bookshelf with the typical wood-glass doors, and they still squeak at the hinges despite multiple attempts to lubricate them. I have already tried WD-40, silicone spray, and even some sewing machine oil, but the squeaking persists. The hinges don’t seem to be worn out or damaged. Has anyone experienced similar issues with Billy bookshelves? Could there be other causes, such as material friction, slight deformation of the rotating parts, or something that is easily overlooked? I would like to know what other options there are to permanently stop the noise without having to replace the entire door or hinges.

The squeaking can also come from the wood itself if it rubs against an edge or contour. Check if the door is rubbing against the frame and try lightly sanding the contact points or treating them with wax.

Hello Slavo9, sometimes the problem is not just that the hinges need maintenance, but also the mounting screws, which can become loose over time. The slight play causes friction, which leads to squeaking. Please check all the screws and tighten them, but not too much to avoid damaging the wood. Additionally, it can help to open and close the hinges fully several times after lubricating them so that the lubricant spreads evenly.

If the screws are tight and the hinges are properly lubricated, the cause may also be a thin layer of rust, especially if the doors are located in more humid rooms. Clean the hinges with some alcohol and then apply fresh lubricant.

I will summarize some possible causes and solutions:

1. Check screws: Loose fittings can cause slight movements that lead to squeaking.

2. Material friction: Wood can swell or shrink at contact points due to deformation or slight moisture. A thin strip of felt or a wax stick applied to friction areas can help.

3. Hinge quality: In cheaper Billy-type shelves, simple hinges are often used that are more prone to issues. Replacing them with higher-quality models can solve the problem in the long run.

4. Lubricants: WD-40 is more of a cleaner/displacer rather than a long-lasting lubricant. For hinges, I recommend Teflon or graphite spray. Silicone spray usually works well too.

Summary: Check all fastenings, clean and lubricate properly, inspect friction points, and if needed, make minor material adjustments or replace hinges.

Sometimes squeaking is caused by too much lubricant, which attracts dust and dirt. Try cleaning the hinges thoroughly first, then apply lubricant sparingly.