In homes with more than one child, bunk beds are often a fixture. These beds save space while allowing each child his or her individual area. While many bunk beds are made from wood, metal versions are available. Metal bunk beds are constructed differently from their wooden counterparts in several ways. Does this Spark an idea?
Safety
The first concern during any installation is safety. Stand-alone metal bunk beds can have some sharp edges, so use protective clothing, including long sleeves and pants, during installation. A helper is needed, because some parts of the bed are too large or too heavy to simultaneously lift and fasten without help. Attached bunk beds require drilling into the wall. For this task, hand and eye protection are necessary.
Tools
Different tools are required for the installation of different types of metal bunk beds. Free-standing bunk beds are prefabricated with interlocking pieces. Installation of these beds may require little more than a screwdriver for fastening machine screws. Some manufacturers use specialty screws that require a hex wrench or Allen wrench. Often, specialty wrenches will be included with the bed. Attached bunk beds, which use a wall for support, require a power drill and a drill bit that's suitable to the wall material.
Free-standing
To install a free-standing metal bunk bed, gather the assembly materials in the area where the bed will be set up. Join the rails of the lower frame of the bunk bed to the four main bed posts that support the top and lower bunks. Once the bottom bunk is fastened, the unit should stand independently. This will allow you to fasten the top bunk rails to the bed posts. Next, insert the box springs and mattresses for both the bottom and top bunk. Attach supplemental parts such as a ladder after the bunk bed is assembled.
Attached
Attached bunk beds are more difficult to install than free-standing bunk beds because they use the wall as a load-bearing structure. Place an attached metal bunk bed where it will not block access to the room. Once you have decided where the bed will be, assemble the metal frame of the bunk bed just as a free-standing frame is assembled. Next, attach the bed's support rails to the wall, and fasten the frame to the support rails. Install the box spring and mattress for each bed before you attach the ladder.
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