ᐅ Why does the floor sometimes creak when entering the apartment?

Hello everyone, I have a somewhat unusual question: My Billy bookshelf sometimes creaks noticeably when I enter the apartment, especially just before I start tidying up or put down my things. It doesn’t happen constantly, but rather irregularly, and sounds like the creaking is coming from the joints or the shelves. I suspect it might be related to floor movement or possibly even moisture, as it occurs more often in winter. Has anyone experienced this or knows exactly why the Billy sometimes makes noises when entering the apartment? I would appreciate any knowledgeable advice before I take it apart 🙂

The creaking usually comes from the friction between the wood and the fasteners. Check if any screws are loose or if the shelf is wobbling. Sometimes, simply tightening the screws a little more helps.

Hello Timon8,

Your issue with the creaking in your Billy-style shelving unit can be explained by looking more closely at its construction. These units are made from particleboard connected with dowels and screws. If the joints are not fully tight, small movements cause friction, which leads to the creaking noise.

Here are a few tips that might help you:

1. Check all screws and connectors: If any are loose, make sure to tighten them.
2. Applying a small amount of paraffin or silicone oil to the joints can reduce friction.
3. Ensure the shelf stands flat and firmly on the floor, as even slight wobbling can increase creaking.
4. Moisture can cause the wood panels to expand slightly, affecting the joints. Make sure indoor humidity levels remain stable.

In summary: The problem usually comes down to mechanical looseness or friction between wooden parts. Inspect the joints and the environment, and you should be able to fix the issue quickly.

KODAN32 schrieb:
If the joints are not 100% tight, small movements cause friction that leads to creaking.

I can confirm that! For me, it helped not only to tighten the screws but also to place a thin layer of firm carpet padding or felt under the shelf. This reduces vibrations, and the shelf 'whines' less when entering the apartment 🙂

I also think this is due to the wood expanding and contracting with temperature and humidity changes. Especially in winter, when the air is drier, the material is more sensitive. So don’t be surprised if the Billy shelf is a bit louder in cold weather.