In the Create-A-Bed® Adjustable Vertical Murphy Bed Construction, Assembly, & Installation Video, you will discover a DIY-friendly mechanism designed for anyone with basic woodworking skills. This adjustable murphy bed mechanism features a patented lifting system utilizing gas springs for easy raising and lowering of the bed. The accompanying construction video, in conjunction with the step-by-step instruction booklet, will guide you through the process of building a sturdy and comfortable murphy bed. It is important to follow the detailed instructions and use the recommended materials for trouble-free use. Advanced woodworkers may make some substitutions, but consulting with technical assistance is highly recommended. The kit includes all necessary parts and components, and the assembly requires tools such as a power drill, saw, screwdrivers, and an Allen wrench. With proper construction and installation, you can enjoy a functional and stylish murphy bed.
Construction and Assembly
To successfully construct and assemble your Create-A-Bed Adjustable Murphy Bed, proper materials and accurate measurements are essential. Using the recommended furniture-grade, veneered plywood will ensure stability and durability in your bed. The construction booklet provides a detailed bill of materials and a cut sheet to help you determine the exact amount of wood components you will need.
Once you have acquired the necessary materials, it’s time to start cutting and drilling the wooden components. The construction booklet provides step-by-step instructions for each individual piece, such as the inner wood bed frame, side rails, foot rail, and head rail. Following these instructions will ensure that your components are cut and drilled to the correct measurements.
After cutting and drilling the wooden components, it’s time to mount the pivot holes and pivot plates. The booklet provides detailed instructions on marking and drilling these holes for assembly. Take your time to ensure accurate placement of the pivot holes and pivot plates, as they are crucial for the smooth operation of your Murphy bed.
With the pivot holes and pivot plates securely in place, it’s time to attach the foot rail and head rail to the inner bed frame. Using clamps, carefully position the foot rail and drill pilot holes to secure it with screws. Repeat the same process for the head rail, ensuring a secure and stable attachment to the inner wood bed frame.
Next, it’s time to secure the side rails to the inner bed frame. Clamp the left and right side rails to the inner bed frame and secure them with screws. This step is important for providing additional stability and support to the overall structure of the bed.
To further enhance the functionality of your Murphy bed, you’ll need to mount the adjustable lower ball stud plates. The construction booklet provides detailed instructions on drilling pilot holes and attaching the adjustable lower ball stud plates to the right side rail and head rail. Take care to ensure accurate placement and secure attachment of these ball stud plates.
After mounting the adjustable lower ball stud plates, it’s time to prepare and mount the face panels. Applying edge banding tape to the face panels will give them a finished look. The construction booklet provides instructions for mounting the face panels to the bed frame, ensuring a quarter-inch overhang on both sides. Adhesive should be applied to secure the face panel and foot rail, and screws should be used to attach the marked sections for additional support.
Once the face panels are securely in place, it’s time to attach the handles and remaining struts. Follow the instructions provided to ensure proper attachment and alignment of these components. These finishing touches will enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your Murphy bed.
After assembling and finishing the wooden components, you have the option to customize your bed with decorative molding or trim. This step allows you to add your personal touch and complement your existing decor. The construction booklet provides guidance on how to add decorative molding to the front and bottom edges of the verticals across the lower front of the bed cabinet.
Installation Video Steps
To assist you further in the assembly and installation process, Create-A-Bed provides a comprehensive installation video. The video walks you through each step of the process, ensuring that you have a visual representation of the instructions provided in the booklet.
The video starts with attaching the Leg Support Rail Part ‘I’ between the metal tubular legs. This step requires a Number 4 Allen Wrench and two leg support rail screws.
Next, the video demonstrates installing the plywood mattress supports. Two one-quarter-inch thick mattress support pieces (Parts J) are placed inside the face panel of the bed frame and attached with three-quarter-inch screws.
To secure the mattress in place, mattress retaining straps are attached. The ends of both straps are screwed through the quarter-inch plywood support pieces into the inner wood bed frame sixteen inches from the front corners of the face panel.
Before proceeding with the installation, it is crucial to check that all necessary components are present. This includes the bed face panel, two verticals, headboard, header, and packet of hardware. Ensure that each component is accounted for to avoid any issues during the installation process.
With the necessary components verified, the video demonstrates the placement of the face panel and the adjustment of the ball studs. The face panel is positioned face-down on a padded surface, and the ball-stud plate closest to the wall is mounted according to the recommended position. Using a socket wrench or drive, the ball stud is then adjusted to the correct number on the left and right adjustable lower ball stud plates.
The next step is to prepare and attach the adjustable upper ball stud plate. The video provides detailed instructions on how to assemble the plate and attach the silver ball studs and black metal washers. Following these instructions will ensure a secure and properly functioning upper ball stud plate.
After attaching the ball studs, the video demonstrates how to attach the left and right verticals to the bed face panel. Plastic washers, pivot bars, and metal “E” clips are used to secure the verticals in place. Accurate measurement and marking of the headboard placement, as well as drilling pilot holes for screws, are important steps in this process.
Once the verticals and headboard are securely attached, they can be rotated into the upright position. The bed header is then inserted between the verticals, clamped, and attached with screws for added stability.
To complete the installation, the video shows the mounting of the gas springs. The lower end of the gas springs is snapped onto the ball stud mounted to the side of the face panel, and the gas springs are rested against the headboard. The upper end of the gas springs is then snapped onto the upper ball stud plate mounted on the verticals.
Before using the Murphy bed, it’s crucial to reattach the bed stops, ensure the cabinet is securely anchored to the wall, and follow the specific instructions for your wall type (wood stud, masonry, or metal stud). This step is essential for the safe and stable operation of the bed.
After securing the bed stops and anchoring the cabinet, it’s time to place the mattress inside the face panel. Elastic retaining straps are used to secure the mattress in place, ensuring it stays in position during use.
To achieve the desired lifting power for the Murphy bed, the video provides instructions on adjusting the gas springs. By turning the hex nut on the adjustable lower ball stud plates, the lifting power of the gas springs can be adjusted. It is important to make small adjustments and ensure both sides are adjusted equally to achieve the desired lifting power.
To ensure the face panel sits flush against the cabinet, the video demonstrates how to adjust the gap around the face panel. By tapping firmly at the bottom of the end panel, the gap can be adjusted until it is even and provides the desired appearance.
For added aesthetics, the video shows how to add decorative base molding to the bed. It is important to attach the decorative molding only to the front and bottom edges of the verticals across the lower front of the bed cabinet. This step allows you to customize the look of your Murphy bed and further enhance its appearance.
When the time comes to disassemble the bed, the video provides step-by-step instructions on how to do so. By following these instructions, you can easily disassemble the Murphy bed for future use or relocation.
Tips and Troubleshooting
To ensure a successful construction and long-lasting use of your Murphy bed, there are a few tips and troubleshooting suggestions to keep in mind.
Firstly, it is recommended to use furniture-grade, veneered plywood for the construction of your bed. This type of plywood ensures stability and durability, making it ideal for the mechanical operation of the bed.
Avoid adding excessive weight to the face panel, as it may make it harder to lift the bed. It is essential to check the recommended mattress size and weight provided in the construction booklet to ensure proper functionality and safety of the bed.
When handling the gas springs, it is important to exercise caution. Do not attempt to compress the gas springs by hand, as it may cause damage. Following the provided instructions for attaching and adjusting the gas springs will ensure proper and safe use.
In the case of common issues with the face panel and gas springs, troubleshooting steps are outlined in the construction booklet. If the face panel is hard to open or won’t stay down, check if the face panel is too heavy or if the mechanism mounting positions are correct. If the gas spring is too long or short to snap onto the upper ball stud plate, double-check if the ball studs are mounted in the correct positions. A sagging face panel indicates an incorrect mounting position of the ball studs, and it should not be forced back into the cabinet, as it may damage the gas springs and ball stud plates.
Technical Assistance
For any questions or technical assistance, Create-A-Bed provides a toll-free number that you can call. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will be able to address any concerns and provide further guidance on your Murphy bed construction and assembly. Additionally, you can visit their website for further assistance and resources.
By following the comprehensive instructions provided in the construction booklet and using the installation video as a visual guide, you can successfully construct and install your Create-A-Bed Adjustable Murphy Bed. With proper materials, accurate measurements, and careful assembly, you will have a functional and aesthetically pleasing Murphy bed that will bring convenience and efficiency to your space.
