Hello everyone,
I recently got a Billy shelf unit from IKEA, and it squeaks every time I put weight on it, for example when placing a book or loading the shelves with some weight. The noise usually comes from the connection points between the shelves and the side panels, but it’s not constant—it only occurs under load or when I cause slight movements.
I’m curious about the exact reason for this squeaking. Is it caused by the design, the materials, assembly errors, or possible changes due to moisture? Is there a way to reduce or eliminate the noise?
I would appreciate expert comments and tips, thank you!
I recently got a Billy shelf unit from IKEA, and it squeaks every time I put weight on it, for example when placing a book or loading the shelves with some weight. The noise usually comes from the connection points between the shelves and the side panels, but it’s not constant—it only occurs under load or when I cause slight movements.
I’m curious about the exact reason for this squeaking. Is it caused by the design, the materials, assembly errors, or possible changes due to moisture? Is there a way to reduce or eliminate the noise?
I would appreciate expert comments and tips, thank you!
L
Leonardteo16 Aug 2019 07:18In addition to the causes already mentioned, one should also consider the manufacturing tolerances of the components. In inexpensive furniture like BILLY, these tolerances are often larger, which can cause individual parts to slightly move against each other when under load.
For those interested in technical details: The plastic connectors often experience slight movement due to point loads, which produces the typical squeaking noise.
As a preventive measure: Applying thin felt pads or similar damping elements to the shelves can often significantly reduce the noise.
For those interested in technical details: The plastic connectors often experience slight movement due to point loads, which produces the typical squeaking noise.
As a preventive measure: Applying thin felt pads or similar damping elements to the shelves can often significantly reduce the noise.
Jonna schrieb:
Moisture can easily cause the panels to swell, which affects the fit and increases friction.That’s interesting, I actually noticed higher humidity in the room last week. I will make sure to ventilate the room better and keep the moisture levels low.
Garth49 schrieb:
Candle wax works greatThat’s a practical idea I will try. Should I apply the wax on the support surfaces of the shelves or on the contact points with the side walls?
Thanks in advance for the quick and helpful replies.
As an addition: Squeaking in BILLY shelves is a well-known issue, often caused by a combination of the material properties, assembly, and environmental factors.
It is advisable to first tighten the screws, then place small plastic or felt pads in areas with minimal material gaps. Wax provides good results since it reduces friction between particleboard and supporting surfaces. Silicone-based lubricants are an alternative but should be used sparingly to avoid staining the surface.
It is also important not to overload the shelf and to adhere to the recommended load capacity. Otherwise, the components may become permanently warped, leading to persistent squeaking.
It is advisable to first tighten the screws, then place small plastic or felt pads in areas with minimal material gaps. Wax provides good results since it reduces friction between particleboard and supporting surfaces. Silicone-based lubricants are an alternative but should be used sparingly to avoid staining the surface.
It is also important not to overload the shelf and to adhere to the recommended load capacity. Otherwise, the components may become permanently warped, leading to persistent squeaking.
Similar topics