Being kept awake by strange noises in the night? If you’ve been watching lots of horror movies in the lead up to Halloween, your first assumption may be that your home is haunted. But don’t call the Ghostbusters just yet! There may be a non-paranormal cause for those creepy creaks and ghoulish groans.
Temperature changes
Popping, creaking and even groaning sounds can sometimes be caused by materials like wood, glass and concrete expanding and contracting as a result of temperature changes. Brand new homes that are still settling and very old homes are particularly susceptible to structural movement. Although these noises can be unsettling, they are perfectly normal and usually nothing to be concerned about (unless you start to notice cracks appearing in walls – in which case, you may want to consider a structural home inspection).
Wind
Whistling and rattling can often be caused by wind. Even if you have no windows or doors open, there may be drafts getting into your home through small cracks of gaps. A small draft can even be enough to knock over objects or cause musical instruments to make sounds. This is a potential cause to consider on a windy night – taking the time to look for drafts and sealing up any entry points could put an end to the spooky sounds.
Plumbing
Gurgles and groans may be caused by air trapped in your plumbing. Traditional radiators are particularly prone to gurgling if they haven’t been bled in a while. Boilers and water heaters can also create unusual popping and rumbling sounds if they are old or damaged. Banging sounds can meanwhile sometimes be caused by water hammer. Call out a plumber if you think there may be an issue with your plumbing.
Pests
A pest problem is a particularly common cause of strange noises like scratching and rustling. You may have rodents or cockroaches in the walls or under the floorboards that are scuttling around. These creatures are most active at night and can lurk in the shadows without you ever seeing them. Look out for warning signs like droppings, scratch marks or wood that looks like it’s been chewed. A pest control company may be able to help identify a pest problem and help you get rid of these unwanted guests.
Auditory hallucinations
Your ears and mind may be playing tricks on you. Auditory hallucinations can occur if you are tired, have been taking substances, have been diagnosed with schizophrenia, are taking medication or if you have a neurological condition. Seeing a doctor or therapist could be worthwhile if you are the only person hearing these sounds, or if you’re experiencing other symptoms like headaches or memory loss.
Something else…
If you’re certain that you can rule out all of the above, then it’s possible you may be living with a ghost. But of course, there may still be more unusual causes ranging from malfunctioned kids toys to noisy neighbors (living next to an abandoned property? Make sure it isn’t being lived in by squatters). In all cases, don’t ignore these noises. Even if it’s not the supernatural, it could be something concerning that needs addressing.
