For many years, bunk beds have been used in households worldwide to allow more than one child to sleep comfortably in a single room. While some families continue to use these beds. Many have also converted their bunk beds into large beds that can comfortably sleep one or more people (depending on the bed frame and mattress). This guide will help you learn how to convert your bunk beds into larger, space-saving beds.
Buy an extra mattress
Large beds typically require two mattresses if you buy an extra mattress. You can convert your bunk bed into a larger bed that requires only one. When purchasing bunk beds Canada, you’ll want to check the dimensions of the original bunk beds and make sure they match. Then, make sure the sizes of your new extended beds are made in full or queen sizes.
Next, find the height where each set of bunkbeds starts on their frames. Find this by looking at which area the slats on each bunk meet. This will be where you attach the legs for your extension boards and screw in any additional support needed for your new floorboards. Lastly, attach two layers of bedding- one layer under the mattress and one above- and voila!
Lay the mattresses side by side on top of each other
This first step is to set up the mattress on the opposite bunk bed. For example, if you are standing on the bottom bunk, this will mean pushing it up against the top bunk. Once that is done, line up the middle of one side of your extra-long mattress with one edge of the bunk bed (the side closest to you). Align it perfectly before proceeding.
Once your mattress is centered and perfectly lined up on one edge of the bunk bed. Take hold and push down while also pulling back at an angle. This will cause it to slide toward the center. Where you can guide it around until it sits securely and is positioned on top of both ladder steps, converting them into a new large bed. Here you can get a complete guide on choosing the right mattress.
Measure and cut the plywood
First, measure the two pieces of plywood you will use for the long side rails. These are going to be side-by-side and should measure 2 ft wide by 10 in tall. Use a pencil and a straight edge to create your cutting line. A power saw or circular saw with fresh blades is best for cutting through plywood. But any standard hand saw or jigsaw should do just fine. When you are finished cutting your long rails. You will have 2 ft wide by 8 in tall boards of plywood that can then be slid under the bunk bed rails. Be sure not to cut any part of the rounded section when making your cuts!
Securely attach the plywood to the bunk bed frame
Plywood is typically used for beds because it is stronger than other wood and does not get as easily warped. You can measure the bed, cut out the plywood, sand down all edges, and then attach the plywood with nails or screws. One thing you should consider when cutting out the plywood is that you will want to leave around four inches on either side of the bed frame to secure it more effectively and increase stability. Finally, ensure that you sand down all rough spots, so there are no splinters!
Remove the guard railings
To convert bunk beds into large beds, you’ll need the following supplies:
- Metal saw and shears for cutting; hammer and pliers for removing nails; drill with a small bit for screwing down bed boards onto joists. You can do this work yourself, but hire a professional carpenter if you don’t feel comfortable doing it.
- Remove all of the guard rails from one side of each bunk bed (they are usually screwed in place) and unscrew any side rails at the head or foot of the bed that would be used to create an L-shaped corner unit by connecting two sets of bunks.
- Using your drill with a small bit, go through any wood trim around windows or doors on the side where you removed guard rails so that there is room for screws to secure your new single-level bunkbeds together later on.
- Place plywood across both bunks where they meet at right angles at their bottom edges to cover what was formerly one guard rail on each side.
Position your new extra long mattress where it needs to go
The next step is to lay the box spring on the floor so you can walk around it. Next, find two four-drawer dressers of the same height and width. For the bed conversion to work properly, you need both beds to be of equal size and shape. Place one dresser on top of the other. So they touch all four corners, forming a rectangle with an open space between them.
Have your helper assist you by holding the box spring steady while you slide it through the opening between them. Once your helper lets go, have him take one of his hands and wrap it around one end of the box spring so that he can guide it onto either side of the four-drawer dressers.
Put the guard railings back in place
To turn your bunk beds into one big bed, you first need to remove the guard railings and put them in place, so they are flush with the mattress. Next, place one of the mattresses on the other, pushing it against the wall. Measure the distance between each side of the two bunk beds and subtract 12 inches from that measurement. Cut two pieces of plywood or some board to these dimensions. Then use screws or nails to attach them along this measurement.
Can you turn a bunk bed into a regular bed?
Yes, bunk beds can be converted into regular twin-sized beds by utilizing the spaces on the sides. Begin by taking apart the bed and removing the frame pieces. Place them as closely as possible on one side panel and attach them with screws. Mount this panel to fit against both bunkbeds when folded up and flipped over each other in an L shape. Place an additional panel between these two sides and make sure it is securely mounted in place. Then flip one bunk bed over onto this panel so that you have a larger surface area on which to work.
How do you join bunk beds together?
Joining two or more bunk beds together is an easy project that can be done in about an hour. Firstly, remove the beds from the bunks and place them next. Measure the length of both beds and mark this measurement on one of the beds. Remove one bunk from its frame by removing any screws holding it in place. Then use this as your template to drill holes with a power drill at every point marked on your template. Next, set the bed inside its corresponding frame and align it so that all aligned holes are perfectly straight. Reattach any screws you removed earlier and fit one side panel back into place before doing the same with the other side panel, so they are flush with one another, then secure with screws.
Conclusion
While more expensive than bunk beds. This conversion is the perfect option for people who want to make room in their homes. Those living in apartments that do not have the space or cannot add to their home and do not have enough furniture may be more satisfied with this setup.