ᐅ The KALLAX creaks louder with changing temperatures – what could be the reason?

Hello everyone,

I’ve noticed that my KALLAX shelf has been creaking much more loudly lately when the outdoor temperatures fluctuate significantly. Especially in the mornings or evenings, when it gets colder, I hear these typical cracking noises that are otherwise barely noticeable.

I suspect that the variations in room temperature cause the wood or the connectors to move, which creates the noise, but I’m not sure why it sounds louder at times or if there’s anything that can be done about it.

Has anyone experienced something similar? Can you explain what exactly causes creaking with changing temperatures and whether there might be a way to reduce it? Thanks in advance for your help!

The creaking usually comes from stress in the wood or the joints. Temperature changes cause expansion or contraction. Simply tightening the screws often helps.

I’m happy to explain this in more detail:

Wood reacts to moisture and temperature by expanding or contracting. In the case of KALLAX, which is made from wood-based panels with a melamine coating, the material can develop stresses, especially when temperatures fluctuate. These stresses affect the joints where individual parts may shift slightly against each other. The creaking noise happens when these small movements produce sound.

A common issue is that joints either become looser over time or are initially too tight, which encourages movement. Additionally, dry heating air can put stress on the material.

In summary: stress from temperature changes + altered surface moisture + mechanical strain = creaking.

It is recommended to regularly check the screws and adjust them lightly if needed.

This is really an annoying problem. I have experienced the same with my KALLAX. Especially when it’s very cold outside and you’re heating indoors, the furniture can creak quite a lot.

I find it reassuring to know that this is not a sign of a defect but a natural reaction of the material. Still, I understand the frustration because the noise can sometimes be quite unpleasantly loud.

Does anyone have tips on how to minimize this creaking under these conditions?

For a factual explanation:

The KALLAX shelving unit is made of coated wood-based panels that are hygroscopic, meaning they absorb or release moisture from the air. When the air humidity drops—typically during cold outdoor temperatures combined with indoor heating—these panels shrink slightly, causing movement at the joints.

The creaking noises occur due to minor friction at bearing points or where wood and metal meet.

To prevent this, maintaining a consistent indoor humidity level between 40-60%, regularly tightening the screws, and if necessary, lightly lubricating the connection points with suitable products (e.g., silicone spray) is recommended.

This noticeably improves the situation and reduces internal stresses.

The cause is always material movement due to temperature and humidity fluctuations. Screws loosen and wood expands. Tightening screws and maintaining stable humidity usually resolves the issue.