03.02.2020
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Folding sofas are the best option for a small bedroom or small apartment. Upholstered furniture with a transformation mechanism allows you to rationally use space, create an atmosphere of comfort and provide conditions for good rest. But not all types of mechanisms are suitable for constant use. One of the most reliable and convenient is the “accordion”, which allows you to quickly disassemble the bed with a flat, comfortable sleeping area.
Advantages and disadvantages
It is safe to say that the accordion sofa is a lightweight and easy-to-use design. Let us highlight the following advantages:
- reliability and strength of the structure. A simple assembly diagram, as well as a durable mechanism, will allow you not to spend money on repairing sofas for quite a long period of time;
- ease of transformation. Disassembling the sofa is easy, just pull on it. After this, the mattress moves forward and the structure takes the form of a bed. Folding and unfolding the sofa is not difficult;
Sofa transformation diagram
- it is easy to repair due to the simplicity of the mechanism. This sofa can be reupholstered with fabric. If the sofa does not fold, then it is enough to repair or replace the wheels and guides. Or, for example, what to do if the sofa creaks? First you need to understand why it actually creaks. It is enough to lubricate creaking mechanical mechanisms with oil. The structure may also creak due to a crack in the wood that needs to be replaced. A refurbished sofa will serve you for a long time;
- There is a drawer at the bottom. This device will partially empty the closet of bed linen, pillows and blankets.
general characteristics
Modern furniture layout mechanisms allow you to create an original interior. Recently, many new principles of transformation have emerged. However, the accordion sofa does not lose its popularity.
Modern furniture manufacturers even use this principle to create armchairs. Such a set can decorate any room. For many years, people have chosen this layout principle because of its convenience. Even a child can straighten and assemble such a structure on his own. And this is sometimes a serious argument in favor of choosing a sofa of one type or another.
The name "accordion" comes from the musical instrument of the same name. The furniture layout is similar. Many people choose this mechanism because of its good reputation. It is famous for its reliability and ease of operation, and this is important when arranging furniture every day.
How to fold out an accordion sofa
The accordion sofa bed features a simple mechanism that works on the principle of an accordion. There is no need to use force to unfold it, and even a 10-year-old child can cope with this task. To arrange furniture you need to follow three simple steps:
- Raise the seat until a characteristic click is heard.
- Pull the mattress towards you until it is completely straight.
- Place the mattress on the legs.
When unfolding this sofa, there is no need to move it away from the wall, which greatly simplifies the operation process.
What to do if the sofa does not fold out
The sofa accordion system is highly reliable. It includes a frame, fastening loops, slats, wheels and a lock. However, over time, any structure wears out. A common sofa malfunction is the failure of the folding mechanism. Slats, hinges or wheels can always be found in furniture hardware stores. The rollers are secured with regular bolts. The slats are changed using rivets, having first made holes in the appropriate places.
Fastener failure is a more serious problem. It is not always possible to fix such a breakdown yourself. If a screw with a spring just pops out, it is easy to replace it on your own; you just need to purchase a new part. In the event of deformation of the lock joint, depending on the complexity of the breakdown, specialist intervention may be required. Replacing the mechanism with your own hands consists of the following steps:
- removal of soft elements;
- preparation of a new part and screws with a large diameter;
- installation of a new locking connection.
unscrewing the broken part using a screwdriver;
You cannot do without the help of a professional even if the frame breaks. With careful use, the accordion sofa will last for many years.
Dismantling the sofa
Removing old elements
Installation of a new mechanism
How to fold an accordion sofa
To fold the sofa, you also do not need to make significant efforts. To do this, follow simple steps:
- It is necessary to slightly raise the outer part of the mattress.
- Apply a little pressure on the support and push the structure towards the body.
- The mattress moves until it clicks.
When unfolded, the accordion sofa provides a flat sleeping place, ensuring the correct position of the body during sleep. Thanks to this, it is pleasant to sleep on it, and in the morning people feel refreshed and well-rested.
Video: How to unfold and fold an accordion sofa
Frame: study, choose the best.
When buying a sofa, your first priority is to find out what its frame is made of, since the “accordion” design requires strength and stability. There are several types on the market. With wooden frame. Made from pine - this is a budget option, but not very durable, since this wood is soft. Made from birch - considered the best option. Beech, oak, ash or walnut are suitable as frames, but they are not available to everyone.
In our catalog you can choose and buy accordion sofas of various shapes and colors
Types of sofas
Before starting work, you need to decide which specific model you want to assemble. To do this, consider three main types:
- jasmine – this model includes a metal frame, mattresses and a drawer for storing linen. The armrests can be folded out;
Sofa model Jasmine
- Astra is a simpler folding system. When folded, it becomes a compact sofa, and when transformed, it becomes a bed;
Astra sofa model
- Lydia - she can be called the standard option. The backrest in this case should not fold out.
Sofa model Lydia
Straight, angular, modular
According to the type of location in the room, accordion sofas are divided into:
- straight. They are located either in the center of the room or near the wall. They often come complete with two chairs that are installed on the sides;
- corner. They are distinguished by an additional elongated seat, which occupies a quarter of the width of the sofa. An additional seat increases the sleeping area. Most of these models are equipped with tables, shelves, bedside tables;
- modular. They consist of separate blocks. Thanks to this, consumers can periodically modify the appearance of the sofa, making it a straight or corner model.
Single, double, triple
According to the number of seats, accordion sofas are divided into:
- single. Not the most common option, although it is compact in size and fits perfectly into small rooms;
- double. The most popular model, in demand among married couples. Suitable for both sitting and sleeping;
- triples. Not as popular as double ones, but they have a variety of variations. They are divided into modular and corner, and their standard length varies from 2.5 to 3 meters.
Single, double
According to the dimensions of the sleeping place, sofas are:
- Single. Suitable for small apartments and completely replace the bed. Such models are chosen for children and teenagers.
- Double. The most common option. Such models often decorate not only living rooms, but also kitchens, children's rooms, and bedrooms. They provide both seating with friends and comfortable sleeping space for two adults.
With armrests (soft, wooden), without armrests
Almost always, designers try to give the sofa a stylish and original appearance with the help of armrests. They are:
- soft or hard (wooden);
- curved or straight;
- narrow or wide;
- prefabricated or solid;
- made from one material or combined (made from different materials).
Sofas without armrests are more suitable for stylish modern interiors. In addition, such models take up significantly less space in the room.
According to frame material: solid wood, metal frame
As for frame materials, they are divided into:
- Metal. They are characterized by a long service life, durability, ability to withstand heavy loads, and stability. Most often, such bases are equipped with orthopedic lamellas that ensure comfortable sleep.
- Wooden. More affordable, but not as durable. The service life of this model is about 10 years.
Rules for choosing a folding sofa
When choosing transformable furniture, it is recommended to pay attention to a number of criteria on which comfort and ease of use depend. This is not only the mechanism, but also such parameters as the type of filler and upholstery. Each of them has advantages and disadvantages that must be taken into account when purchasing.
Upholstery and filling: what to pay attention to
Spring and springless blocks can be used as filler for upholstered furniture. Spring blocks of dependent and independent types are elastic and provide comfortable rest. But the Bonnell dependent spring system is short-lived; it is better to abandon it in favor of mattresses with independent springs. Such fillers have an orthopedic effect, they are durable, allowing proper distribution of the load. For daily sleep, a folding accordion sofa with a mattress made of independent springs is the best option.
Springless fillers can be soft or hard, made from furniture polyurethane foam or with layers of latex, coconut coir or memory foam. The second option will be better for daily use, since hard fillers of this type are durable and have an orthopedic effect. Mattresses based on polyurethane foam or padding polyester are softer, but are not suitable for constant use, as they easily lose their shape.
For daily sleep, it is recommended to choose sofas with synthetic, natural or mixed types of upholstery. When choosing, you need to consider the following:
- genuine leather is durable and beautiful, but bedding slips on it, that is, it is not suitable for constant use as a sleeping place;
- wool does not slip and has good performance properties;
- mixed fabrics are durable and practical;
- flock and velor are not suitable for daily sleep; they wear out quickly;
- jacquard is durable, but its cost is high, like genuine leather.
Advantages and principle of operation
A folding sofa is quite a practical thing. When assembled, it takes up minimal space in the interior, and when unfolded it has all the advantages of a full-fledged sleeping place.
The accordion model is extremely easy to use. The three-stage layout is so simple that even children can do it.
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The rotating mechanism of the accordion sofa unfolds by simply lifting and pulling the canvas forward.
The design has three parts. These are blocks connected in series.
The first two make up a sleeping place, which when folded turns into the back of a sofa. The third part when folded is a seat, and when unfolded it complements the length of the bed.
The total length can be about 2 meters, which allows tall people to comfortably fit on such a sofa bed. Reviews about the accordion mechanism for a sofa are different, and they depend on customer preferences.
You can learn more about the operation of the mechanism by watching the video:
Expert opinion Maria Vasilievna Mikhailova Manager of a furniture store. Knows everything about comfort and interior design
- The front shelf and legs are equipped with rubber wheels. This prevents scratches and damage to linoleum or laminate flooring.
- The design includes a spacious drawer for storing bedding.
- Transformation into a bed does not require moving the structure, since it folds only forward.
- There are models with additional shelves built into the armrests.
- Folding requires significant physical effort.
- Damage to the inner lever prevents the sofa from being folded.
- The thick back when folded does not look entirely harmonious.
Features of design and configuration of models
The fastening system allows you to easily change the position of the sofa. It operates on the principle of folding or stretching the bellows of a musical instrument (harmonica or accordion). The accordion sofa mechanism diagram consists of a frame and three panels that serve as a bed.
The frame of the sofa is made of steel profile or thin-walled metal pipe. This gives the product sufficient strength for long-term use.
There are also models whose frame is made entirely of wood. The bed is formed by wooden planks - lamellas or battens, fixed in the frame.
They are located quite close to each other, which gives the sleeping place the necessary orthopedic rigidity. The bed can also be made of metal mesh.
The frames are fastened together with a special ATC or BZ locking mechanism, which are responsible for the function of laying out and assembling the sofa.
Bed in unfolded position
The model range of accordion folding sofas is presented in three design options:
- Straight sofa, with a classic layout. Such models are suitable for rooms with limited space.
- Corner sofa, with a stationary corner section. It is preferable to place it in the living room. This design has the largest number of sitting and sleeping places.
- Chair-bed. Usually placed in the nursery, since it is designed for one person. Also, one or two armchairs can complement a straight sofa, creating a full-fledged soft furniture set.
Additional equipment
The accordion sofa consists of: frame, base, filling and upholstery fabric.
Leather, eco-leather, flock, velor, chenille, jacquard and others can be used as the main upholstery fabric.
It can also be equipped with additional options:
- orthopedic mattress. It completely follows the curves of the body, maintaining it in the correct position during sleep;
- linen drawer. When unfolding the transforming mechanism, underneath there is a convenient and spacious linen drawer where you can put bedding;
- table. A very convenient option for those who like to drink tea or coffee while watching TV. It is also convenient to place a laptop on it;
- overlays for sidewalls. They protect those areas that are most subject to wear and tear. In addition, the pads are functional, as you can put a cup of coffee, magazines, or a mobile phone on them;
- removable covers. They help preserve the original appearance of the furniture, as they protect the upholstery from intensive use;
- side shelves. They can be used to store books, magazines and decorative items. This way, everything you need will always be at hand.
Features of the transformation mechanism
According to the principle of operation of the mechanism, a folding sofa accordion can be compared to stretching a button accordion or accordion. Its design has three blocks, which consist of a metal or wooden frame. It is filled with wooden armor, located at a distance from each other.
The sleeping area consists of two blocks. The armor in them has a maximum distance in relation to each other. The third frame serves as a seat. At the same time, it makes the seating area longer when the sofa is folded out. This part of the furniture receives a lot of load, so the battens are placed as close as possible here.
When folded, the two main blocks fit tightly against each other, forming a backrest. They are perpendicular to the seat. To quickly unfold the accordion sofa, you need to pull out the seat. It will pull the entire structure along with it. When folded, the sofa does not take up much space and looks miniature.
The accordion mechanism can be found in the following versions:
- Straight sofa. Has 3 seats and 2 beds. Suitable for rooms with a small area. Folds forward.
- Chair-bed. Takes up little space, intended for one person. Used as a permanent or temporary place to sleep.
- Corner sofa. When unfolded, it has a large sleeping area due to the design, which consists of straight and stationary blocks. Most suitable for spacious living rooms.
Straight
Chair-bed for one person
Corner
How to unfold a sofa with an accordion mechanism: first you need to slightly raise the seat until you hear a click, which indicates the safety lock is locked. Next, the seat is pulled with force towards itself until the blocks create a flat surface.
Folding the accordion sofa is also easy. To do this, you need to do the steps in reverse order:
- The seat slides into place. This causes the berth to rise up and become a backrest.
- The lower block is raised slightly until a click is heard. After this, the sofa will be completely folded.
With a correctly assembled structure, the process is very quick and easy. If the sofa accordion does not unfold or fold, this indicates that the product was assembled incorrectly.
Customer Reviews
As for general customer reviews, they note the following:
- The mattresses in such products are smooth, without depressions or cracks. Consequently, they are pleasant and comfortable to sleep on;
- The mechanisms are durable. If the product has a metal frame, then the sofa will serve the owners for more than 10 years;
- When folded, the furniture takes up minimal free space and is perfect for small spaces. When unfolded, it completely replaces a bed and is suitable for resting two adults;
One of the negative aspects is the possible appearance of squeaks during operation.
Required materials and tools
To successfully assemble a sofa with an accordion mechanism, you need to prepare the following tools:
- wrench number 10 mm for mechanisms;
- screwdrivers;
- drill;
- screwdriver
Ways to get rid of bedbugs in the sofa, how to choose the best remedy
The standard furniture package includes: chipboard panels, textile upholstery, foam rubber, a three-section mattress, fastening elements (staples, screws and nails), guides, wheels for the sliding part, legs for the base. Before quickly assembling the accordion sofa, you need to study the instructions, which differ for different modifications.
The “Lily” model is a standard sample of chipboard panels. The back of this sofa only partially reclines. “Jasmine” is equipped with a metal frame, a drawer for linen, and if desired, you can change the position of the armrests. “Astra” is a lightweight model that, when folded out, forms a wide bed.
Components of the structure
Fasteners
Tools
Factory instructions
Step-by-step instruction
If we compare several types of products, we can conclude that making this model is much easier than others. Assembling a factory product will not be difficult at all. Along with it, the kit includes instructions for assembling an accordion-type sofa, as well as all the necessary parts. Following step by step, a beginner will easily assemble furniture. The whole process is divided into two stages: designing the bed and assembling the frame.
It is better to assemble furniture with a partner. This will speed up the process and simplify it.
Step-by-step instructions for assembling an accordion sofa:
- The purchased product is delivered from the warehouse disassembled into several parts. Separately there is a frame with a transformation mechanism, a mattress, and armrests. All parts must be prepared by removing elements of packaging material.
- The frame is completely expanded.
- A mattress is placed on top of the frame part. It has special Velcro strips that will securely secure it to the base.
- The mattress is fixed with tapes along the edges of the frame and in the folds that form when the sofa is folded. It is important to secure the soft part well, so it is recommended to use all the tapes that are included in the kit.
- The next step is preparation for installation of the armrests. First, remove from the frame all elements for adjusting and fixing the armrests. Then the fittings are removed from the packaging, and a key for 10 is prepared.
- At pre-designated points on the armrests, holders are securely installed in special grooves that are located in the transformation mechanism.
- The armrests are equipped with plastic connecting elements. They are designed to securely fasten parts to the back of the sofa.
- The accordion sofa is moved to a position where you can reach the control knob. It is located between the sleeping block and the armrest.
- The lamb is tightened to the end. At this stage, the accordion sofa is completely ready for use. All that remains is to test the mechanism for its ability to fold out, and also to place the furniture in the right place in the apartment.
Brought from warehouse
Prepared details
Extend the frame and lay the mattress
We fix the mattress with tapes to the frame
Armrest fittings
We screw the holders with wings to the armrest
Insert the holders into the transformation slots
We put the back of the sofa on plastic connecting elements
We put the sofa in a position where you can reach the lamb
Tighten the adjustment knob
Assembled sofa accordion
Before disassembling the accordion sofa for transportation, you need to prepare: a flat-head screwdriver, keys for 10, 12, 13 and 14, bags, film or tape for packaging. First, the furniture is moved away from the wall to the center of the room and the covers are removed. Using keys, unscrew the screws that connect the side parts to the back.
Next, disconnect the headboard by removing it from the grooves and rolling out the frame on the box. The seat is lifted, the fastening or clamps are unscrewed and the linen box is removed. After you have managed to disassemble the accordion sofa for transportation, the packaging stage begins. The side parts, linen box, transformation mechanism and mattress are wrapped in film separately from each other. Bolts and fasteners are sent in a package.
The accordion sofa has a comfortable design that is very compact and easy to unfold. By unfolding it, you can get a comfortable sleeping place that will allow you to fully relax.
Moving the sofa away from the wall
Removing pillows and covers
Detach the headboard
Untie the mattress tapes from the structure
Removing the mattress
Use wrenches to unscrew the fastening screws
Unscrew the fastenings
Removing the linen drawer
We wrap the disassembled parts with film
We put the bolts and fasteners in bags
What to do if the sofa does not fold out
Turning an assembled sofa into a full-fledged bed is quite simple, because this is what the mechanism is designed for. The accordion layout sequence is as follows:
- The layout area is cleared of unnecessary objects and floor coverings in the form of a carpet (if any). This is necessary, since the movement of the mechanism’s rollers will be carried out along the floor.
- The seat rises until it clicks, which indicates that the safety unit is turned off. In budget models there may not be a click, then the seat just needs to be brought to the top point.
- The raised seat stretches towards itself to the end, as a result of which the individual blocks form a single space.
At this stage the bed is ready. To fold it, you need to roll the seat into place until it stops. Raise the bottom until it clicks and lower it. This movement will lock the mechanism and make the sofa compact again.
If the design is in good working order, there will be no problems with transformation. But since this is a mechanism, problems do occur. The weakest points include: the wheels of the mechanism, frame hinges, lamellas and the frame itself.
Rollers that become clogged, stop spinning, or otherwise stop working will be cheaper and easier to replace than to repair. Replacement wheels must be of the same size. The procedure is as follows: unscrew the screws or screws securing them to the axle, and then fasten the new parts in the same way.
The slats can also burst and crack if they are subjected to heavy loads. Fasteners also often fail. A sofa with such damage begins to creak and depressions form on it. Individual wooden planks for replacement can be purchased at furniture stores, as well as a set of fasteners. Installing them without the special equipment used to install rivets is difficult. But it is quite possible to replace them with standard bolts - this will not make the design work any worse.
If the problem lies in the mechanism itself or the hinges, it is better to seek help from professional furniture makers. They will be able to carry out welding work and change parts. And in particularly difficult cases, they will recommend replacing the entire sofa.
You can prevent breakage by regularly lubricating the joints, but this does not always save you, and the furniture can still break.
Sofas with an accordion mechanism are compact, easy to use and reliable. They can be angular, straight, or in a chair format, and can also be equipped with additional storage for things and shelves. The mechanism is easy to unfold, but expensive to repair, so it is better to choose steel frames, the service life of which is much higher than wooden or aluminum ones.
Free the wheels from dust and replace if necessary.
Check the lamellas, replace cracked or broken ones
Tighten fastenings
Check the operation of the mechanism, replace or repair broken parts
“Conrad” is a subtype of a roll-out sofa. The fundamental difference is the greater height of the berth.
Advantages: reliable mechanism suitable for daily use, sofas have a compact volume, are equipped with a drawer for linen, comfortable for sleeping
Disadvantages: the mechanism and sofa are heavy and expensive
Assembly instructions
The instructions for assembling the sofa are not particularly difficult. If you decide to install an accordion sofa, then the question arises of how to assemble it without outside help at home.
Assembling the mechanism (first stage) Assembling the soft part (second stage) Assembling the wooden decor (last stage)
Two parts can be distinguished. The first part includes the frame and backrest, and the second part is directly the seat and retractable part. The second part after disassembly becomes a bed
The frame of the structure is made of durable metal tubes. The backrest must be fixedly attached to the frame. To make armrests, you can use chipboard.
Before starting work, you first need to draw up an assembly diagram for the future sofa. It is the drawing that will be the auxiliary material for making the sofa and determines in what sequence the parts are assembled.
Sofa scheme
The part of the sofa that folds out is a box with guides. The box accounts for about 1/3 of the bed, that is, the sofa in disassembled form. To make a box, you need to knock down a rectangle from a board. A sheet of plywood is attached to the bottom. The box itself can be used to store pillows, blankets, blankets and bed linen. Wheels are installed at the bottom of the box, and guides are installed on the side.
For the back, chipboard and plywood are used, which are then filled with foam rubber and upholstered with fabric. The legs and bottom are attached to the bottom of the frame, which should be located below the sliding part.
A mattress is installed on the sofa, which will consist of three parts, which should ensure ease of transformation of the structure. The three parts of the mattress are fastened together using upholstery fabric, which is also used for upholstery. Then the structure is covered with fabric and the retractable part is attached to the frame using self-tapping screws.
The process of assembling the accordion sofa is presented in detail in the video.
Thus, assembling an accordion sofa with your own hands is not difficult and the instructions are easy to understand. The result is a comfortable design that you can use as a bed and when unfolded as a sofa, and which can be disassembled without much effort.
Materials
As we found out, usually an accordion sofa has a metal base frame, as well as wooden slats for the mattress. And here, in principle, everything is clear. That’s why most often accordions are chosen based on their “clothes,” that is, the upholstery in the first place. So, the following materials can be used for upholstery:
- flock , which is characterized by great strength and durability;
- leather and eco-leather , which will give the sofa solidity. These are easy-to-care materials, but they can be easily damaged by sharp objects. Also, such materials should not be chosen by those who have pets;
- jacquard is a material considered the most inexpensive, but at the same time it looks stylish and beautiful;
- matting is a material based on burlap, durable, undemanding, but hard and not particularly beautiful;
- velor is a delicate and pleasant material, but difficult to clean.
What is an accordion sofa
When choosing a sofa model and its upholstery material, you must take into account the conditions and frequency of use of the product. You also need to remember to take measurements of the room and decide where the furniture will be placed so as not to make a mistake with the dimensions. It would be a good idea to take into account the general style of the interior at the selection stage in order to choose a sofa that best suits the color and style.
Leather accordion sofa
Accordion sofa design
The design of the accordion is cumbersome in itself. This means that it will be difficult to take it out right away (and there is also a risk of damaging the unassembled product during transportation).
What does it consist of
This sofa consists of a frame with three sections connected together. The frame is usually made of metal, with wood slats used inside. By extending the seat, the back of the sofa lowers - this creates a straight base.
Front and mattress
The front part contains 4 wheel supports, the folded backrest rests on a fixed headboard. The mattress has three sections, which, when the structure is laid out in “sleeping mode,” form a single space.
We are talking about disassembly as a mandatory stage of the transportation process, for which movers are usually searched. In the future, you will have to wrap the disassembled elements of the sofa separately in film. The moving elements of the frame are secured with tape, and everything on the outside should be wrapped in corrugated cardboard.
Sofa materials
Sleeping sofas must be strong and durable. For this purpose, the frame is made of thick metal profiles. All three parts are connected to each other using special locking loops.
The wood must be well dried. Pine and birch are best suited for these purposes. Poorly dried material settles over time, and the sofa begins to creak. Therefore, special attention should be paid to the quality of wood.
The soft parts of the sofa are filled with elastic or spring blocks. Therefore, a mattress is not required for such furniture. Please note that if you have a removable cover, it will be easier to care for the sofa.
The covering material must be made of dense fabric. Its wear resistance class is at least 5. This must be taken into account for those sofas on which you are supposed to sleep every day. If you have pets in the house, it is recommended to choose a special type of fabric that does not leave claw marks or puff marks. It is better to order a sofa with a material of this type, then the product will last longer.
Useful tips
You should assemble the sofa accordion yourself, armed with some useful tips.
- If you cannot unfold or fold the sofa, this will mean that it was assembled incorrectly - you will have to “work on the mistakes.”
- It is better to assemble such furniture with an assistant. This way the work will go faster and easier.
- Don’t try to assemble furniture with an “accordion” mechanism yourself if you don’t understand anything about it - call a specialist so as not to accidentally damage the sofa.
- For assembly, use only high-quality and reliable tools that will not fail at a crucial moment.
- If you make furniture yourself from wood, do not forget to coat it with antiseptic compounds before starting all work.