What are the advantages and disadvantages
A metal bunk bed has a number of obvious advantages. Thus, the metal used in the product is practically not afraid of any external mechanical influences. It is not subject to corrosion, as the manufacturer uses special protective coatings.
The weight of the structure depends on the choice of steel or aluminum, while aluminum products are more resistant to corrosion and do not require periodic surface treatment.
Compared to wood, metal will never dry out or rot. The fire safety of metal furniture can also be highlighted as an undoubted advantage. In addition, as we said above, such beds will help you save space in your living space, providing two beds at once in a cramped area.
If the humidity regime in the room is violated, the product does not deform and remains resistant to the formation of fungus, rot, and other microorganisms.
Important! The treated steel from which the bed is made will never allow germs to grow. The material is resistant to mold and various fungi. Metal is more hygienic than wood.
At the same time, such furniture also has disadvantages. One of the main disadvantages is the limited range of such products compared to wooden products, since iron processing is a much more complex technological process. Also, it should be remembered that if the protective coating of the metal is damaged, there will be a risk of corrosion.
The surface will ensure easy cleaning; the product will not lose its appearance if something is spilled on it or painted with a marker.
Compared to wood, steel is a more traumatic material, and therefore both children and adults will at least get a bruise if they accidentally hit a metal corner. In addition, metal is an excellent heat conductor and can become very hot when exposed to sunlight.
Durable coating provides resistance to scratches, chips and other damage.
Important! There is a stereotype among people about the heavy weight of metal furniture. This is wrong! The hollow metal pipes used in production ensure the low weight of the bed.
Advantages of children's metal bunk beds
- A bunk bed must be strong and reliable . Especially when the product is supposed to be installed in a nursery. After all, kids not only sleep here, but also play, and are very active: just the opportunity to climb stairs is a huge temptation for a child. A frame made of metal pipes will fully provide the required strength. It is difficult to damage a metal product even by hitting it with a hammer.
- The metal is absolutely fireproof .
- Steel is not susceptible to rotting , drying out, or the action of fungi, like wood. Of course, wood, poorly processed. But metal has advantages here too: finding pipes made from a low-quality alloy is indeed extremely difficult.
- Hygiene - metal surfaces do not promote the growth of bacteria or microbes, and do not suffer during any disinfection procedures.
- Metal is much less susceptible to wear . Collapsible steel structures last as long as solid ones. The same applies to any additional devices: the frame of shelves or retractable tabletops.
- Durability - a metal bed can be inherited. It is very difficult to damage, scratch or bend.
- The design of metal bunk beds is more modest . Such models are decorated with forged elements, glass or aluminum inserts. These techniques are typical for “adult” stylistic solutions: floral patterns in Baroque, twisted columns in Art Nouveau, inserts in high-tech.
In a nursery, where a riot of colors is required, this option seems too modest, but thanks to the transparency of the design, even the most complex bunk bed looks light and elegant. Which is a big plus for a small area.
Manufacturers offer a lot of options where a metal frame is combined with fiberboard or wood. These models combine all the advantages of metal and wood and are free of their disadvantages.
Photo of a metal bunk bed
Dimensions of bunk beds
It should be remembered that a bed is, first of all, a place of rest that should be as comfortable as possible. Therefore, when choosing any bed, it is necessary that the size of its sleeping place fully corresponds to the person who will sleep on it.
Due to the weight, the structure acquires additional stability, adding safety.
Modern manufacturers offer a large selection of beds by size. The following groups can be distinguished:
- each tier is a single bed, width can be from 70 to 90 cm, length up to 2 meters, height up to 1.8 meters;
- one of the tiers is one and a half or double, width varies from 1.4 to 1.6 meters, length up to 2 meters, height up to 1.8 meters;
- The size of children's beds greatly depends on the age of the child, with the height usually being no more than 1.7 meters.
Reusable assembly - unlike wooden structures, connections allow assembly many times without the risk of damage.
Dimensions and drawings
Determining the dimensions of future furniture is the first place to start work. You should not opt for a model that is too tall or bulky. The entire structure should be no more than two meters in length.
Pros and cons of bunk beds for teenagers, popular models
Standard dimensions of a bunk bed:
- length - 175–205 cm;
- width - 75–110 cm;
- height - 165–180 cm;
- the distance between tiers is 80–90 cm;
- distance to ceiling - 65–75 cm.
It is best to measure the height of your son or daughter and add 30 cm to this value. In this case, the length of the furniture will be optimal for the child, he will sleep comfortably, and the life of the bed will increase by 2–5 years. If the child is six years old, the length of the bed should not be less than 150–160 cm. For a teenager, a bed is made a little larger, 190–200 cm long. The width should be such that the child can fit on the surface with his arms spread to the sides and his elbows bent.
In complex models with built-in furniture below, the dimensions of bedside tables, tables, and drawers are calculated. Indicate the length and height of the entire structure. The width of cabinets and shelving is chosen arbitrarily, taking into account that the child must reach the top shelves. Having made measurements, they make a drawing of a bunk bed; you can do it manually, remembering school drawing lessons, or use one of the many online designers.
Based on the drawing, the material is cut into the required number of assembly units. By properly organizing all the preparatory work, you will be able to assemble a two-story bed for children yourself without any extra effort.
Varieties
Nowadays, manufacturers offer a fairly wide range of metal bunk beds for both children and adults, differing in design and functionality. Let's look at some of them.
The design of metal beds is such that there are no sharp corners or sharp edges, which will protect an adult or child from damage as a result of accidental impacts.
For children and teenagers
For children, metal bunk beds are usually compact and have an aesthetic design. Please note that any children's model must be equipped with sides that will prevent the child from falling in his sleep. A convenient staircase is also an important factor. Since children are more mobile, it is best to choose models that do not have sharp corners or are covered with soft upholstery.
This bed will last at least 30 years and will always be like new.
At the same time, a children's metal bunk bed can have different functionality:
- standard;
- with additional work area;
- wall bed equipped with additional shelves and drawers;
- with a sports corner.
The pricing policy is much cheaper than similar solid wood products.
For adults
An adult metal bunk bed, of course, is most often purchased for hostels, hotels, and country houses. They can be up to two meters in length, but there are models in which this parameter can be adjusted independently - by moving or expanding the metal base. Such furniture is more massive and durable, as it can withstand a person’s weight up to 150 kg.
Due to the qualities of the material used, metal beds fit into the main trends in interior design today.
Also, beds for adults differ in the types of transverse reinforcements and meshes.
Transformers
Transformable bunk beds are very popular among buyers for their functionality in a fairly compact size.
The main criterion when choosing furniture is its practicality and functionality.
They come in various types:
- pull-out – in appearance they resemble a regular, but high bed, however, from under the upper bed, if necessary, you can pull out an additional one;
- beds in which the lower tier can be folded out into a fairly comfortable sofa;
- folding ones, in which the sleeping places (lower or both at the same time) are folded during the daytime, resulting in the formation of a wardrobe.
The dimensions of the product depend on the size of the room where the bed will be installed.
Design options
Metal bunk beds for adults have long ceased to be boring official furniture. Modern designs combine functionality and decorativeness; they can decorate any bedroom.
The classic style of the room, based on echoes of antiquity, implies forged metal furniture of regular geometry with ornaments on the sides or headboard. If by classic we mean modern urban style, an option made of pipes with a shiny or matte metal coating, painted in soothing colors, and a minimum of decorative elements is suitable.
Classics also include ethnic styles, for which the best choice would be deliberately rough forged metal.
Art Nouveau is characterized by smooth rounded lines and the presence of floral motifs in the decor. Two-tier models in this style are characterized by an asymmetrical shape and the absence of unnecessary decorations. The use of beds with a sofa or table in the lower level is encouraged, which divides the space without taking up much space.
Minimalism loves clear lines, calm colors and an almost complete absence of decor. A bunk bed made in a laconic style will help to achieve the illusion of space. It can be matched to the color of the main interior or create a contrast with the design of the floor, ceiling and walls.
Extravagant hi-tech is emphasized by models that combine beauty and practicality. There is no place for pretentiousness here, only strict straight lines, flying, lightweight designs, sparkling or matte metal parts in combination with plastic and glass.
Country style prefers wood in its natural form, but a metal bed with a slight touch of patina fits quite organically into a rustic interior. Provence is very suitable for a romantic bedroom. Bunk beds in this style are distinguished by a slightly pretentious decor, lightness, and the presence of elegant forged or imitation forging elements.
Advantages and disadvantages of an orthopedic bed, its dimensions
The loft is known for the combination of carelessness in the decoration of the interior surfaces of the room and stylish modern furniture. Absolutely straight lines and a contrasting combination of white and black are welcome here. The bed should look like a work of art to set off the deliberate “shabbyness” of the finish.
Exclusive forged products in the “palace” style are also made from metal, but they, as a rule, are not two-tiered.
Classic
Modern
Minimalism
Loft
Provence
High tech
Country
Ladder placement
There are two types of stairs for metal bunk beds:
- marching;
- vertical.
A vertical ladder is the usual two vertical guides, which are connected to each other by crossbars that serve as steps.
It is necessary to carefully inspect the structure - the protective coating of the metal elements must be complete, distributed evenly, without drips or scratches.
The staircase uses inclined steps. It is safer than vertical, but its placement requires an additional area of about 0.5 m2.
In addition, it is worth paying attention to the material used to make the stairs. If it is made of metal and, in addition, a chrome coating is applied to the steps, then such a staircase, although it looks aesthetically pleasing, is, however, the most dangerous. At the same time, stairs made of wood or steps made in the form of lockers are safer.
The distance between tiers must be at least one meter.
It is worth paying attention to the width of the steps. The wider they are, the safer.
Materials and tools used
To make a bunk bed from wood or metal, you first need to purchase materials. Their number is calculated according to the sketch of the future model and the design drawing. During the work process, you will also need various fasteners, fittings and auxiliary tools.
You can make bunk beds from the following materials:
- Array. These are processed, well-dried wood boards and bars. Such furniture is considered the most expensive, but of high quality. When making a children's bed, different materials are often combined. A frame is usually made from solid cross members.
- Lumber. This is a raw material obtained as a result of longitudinal or transverse division of logs. Boards and bars are dried and processed to the required size. The frame of a bunk bed is usually made from lumber, according to dimensions and drawings.
- MDF. This is a sheet plate made by dry pressing wood chips at high temperature and pressure. MDF is highly dense and can easily withstand the weight of parts attached to it. Laminated boards are used for finishing. It is worth considering that when drilling a sheet, a lot of dust is generated - it is better to order a ready-made cut.
- Chipboard. This is a particle board obtained by pressing chips. This hard material can have a laminated surface and be used as a finish. However, chipboard does not hold fasteners well.
- Furniture board. This is a wooden slab made from planed bars glued together. The sheet can be square or rectangular in shape. Furniture panels are used for the frame and finishing of the bed.
- Metal. The structure, assembled from metal elements, can withstand any load, moreover, it is stable and durable. Furniture is made from wire, round bars, and thin-walled pipes. In the process of making the bed you will have to use a welding machine. It is almost impossible to make metal furniture at home. Forged elements are made only in workshops equipped with special equipment.
A variety of bright bus beds for decorating a children's room
In addition to materials, you will need for work:
- hacksaw;
- roulette;
- drill;
- screwdriver;
- sander;
- self-tapping screws;
- steel fasteners.
Usually a bed is made from wood materials for a children's room. Boards, bars and slabs can be bought at any construction supermarket. Cutting is done in a nearby furniture workshop or at home yourself.
Array
Lumber
MDF
Chipboard
Furniture board
Metal
Tools
How to choose the right metal bunk bed
Before going to a furniture showroom, you must measure your room, since the installed furniture should not interfere with free passage. At the same time, it is necessary to provide access to the bed, otherwise it will be inconvenient to use.
When choosing the type of bed, preference should be given to rounded shapes with smoothed corners.
It is also worth remembering that the ceiling height in the room where the bunk bed will be installed must be at least 2.5 meters.
Important! When choosing a bed size, choose a size slightly larger than necessary. In this case, it will be more comfortable to sleep on it, and if it is intended for a child, then it will not have to be changed in the near future.
Be sure to check whether the model you choose has anti-corrosion treatment.
Particular attention should be paid to the ladder - it must be securely attached to the bed and have wide, flat steps.
If you are planning to purchase a children's bed, then it is important to first talk with your child about whether he agrees to sleep on the top tier and whether he is afraid of heights.
In a furniture showroom, pay attention to the joints of iron parts and the careful manufacturing of the components. Check the stability of the bunk bed - it is advisable that the bed legs can be adjusted.
To ensure a stable, comfortable climb, the presence of strong handrails will be an advantage.
How to choose a quality product
Modern beds are made with an orthopedic base: slats are placed on the frame frame along with mattresses, providing comfortable elasticity to the sleeping place. You can choose options with a metal grid or mesh as a base. But they are not very reliable, over time they can change their geometry and begin to creak.
What to consider when choosing bunk beds:
- aluminum pipes used for the frame weigh significantly less and are not susceptible to corrosion, unlike conventional coated metal;
- a non-separable model is more reliable than a collapsible one;
- high quality anti-corrosion coating: scratches, chips, abrasions are unacceptable;
- a bed for children should have a reliable fence and flat non-slip steps to the second tier.
How to choose and where to place a bunk bed for adults, tips
For a collapsible model, it is important to have reliable, convenient and comfortable fastening mechanisms. Their work must be checked before purchasing furniture. It is advisable to choose a bed that is already equipped with an orthopedic mattress.
If we are talking about creative design structures, you should make sure that the furniture is convenient to use, all built-in elements (cabinets, shelves, curtains) are comfortable for a particular user, and climbing to the second tier will not cause difficulties. It is necessary to check the operation of all retractable elements, the strength of the fences and stairs, the reliability and safety of fastenings.
The bed for children must have a reliable fence
High quality anti-corrosion coating
Ways to place a house
Remember that in the bedroom the bed is the central piece of furniture, and the entire interior of the room will depend on it.
According to the placement method, bunk beds can be divided into classic and corner.
The second floor should be equipped with a high, strong side with a number of transverse elements to prevent falls from a height.
In classic beds, the sleeping places are located one above the other. In corner versions, one bed is located perpendicular to the other.
Also included with many models of bunk beds are fasteners that allow you to secure the bed to the wall. This guarantees additional security.
Preference should be given to models equipped with numerous cabinets and shelves - additional storage space will always come in handy.
Popular models and manufacturers
Today there are a huge number of companies producing furniture, and in particular metal bunk beds, on the market.
A good way to save money when purchasing is to assemble the bed yourself.
Most of the models offered by Russian manufacturers are purchased for the army, hotels, hostels, and the like. Most furniture showrooms feature foreign manufacturers, for example, from Turkey or Malaysia.
The bulk of the reviews about metal bunk beds are positive and do not contain consumer dissatisfaction.
