Buzz
Bed bolts, the elongated screws, play a crucial role in securing various components of your bed frame together. The method of securing bed bolts can vary depending on the type of frame you own. Some bed frames feature circular apertures and utilize barrel nuts, while others rely solely on washers and nuts to secure the bolt in position. Once the bolts are properly installed, you'll have a robust and sturdy bed frame!
Procedures
Installation Process for Bolts with Barrel Nuts
Align the bedposts to ensure alignment of the bolt holes. Position the end post of your bed frame upright and locate the side rail that connects to it. Many bed frames feature a wooden joint or dowels on the side rail, facilitating easy attachment of different pieces. Insert the wooden joint or dowels into the end post to loosely assemble the components.
- Refer to the frame’s instruction manual, if available, to determine which pieces need to be connected.
- Consider passing the bolt through the bedpost hole to serve as a guide for attaching the side rail. Subsequently, remove it to position the barrel nut before reinserting the bolt.
Insert a barrel nut into the hole on the side rail. A barrel nut is a cylindrical fastener with a threaded hole running through its center. Locate a circular aperture in the side rail near the end post and insert the nut securely. Use a screwdriver to rotate the barrel nut until its central hole aligns with the bolt hole on the end post.
- Barrel nuts are typically utilized for wooden bed frames.
- While most bed frames feature barrel nuts inserted into the side rail, some may have designated slots on the end post. Consult your bed frame's manual to determine the appropriate placement for the nut.
Thread the bolt through the hole and fasten it into the nut. Guide the threaded end of the bolt through the end post of your bed until it reaches the barrel nut. Begin screwing the bolt clockwise to engage with the nut's threading. Tighten the bolt manually until it's firmly secured.
- Avoid applying excessive force when inserting the bolts to prevent stripping the barrel nut and causing loosening of the bolts. If the bolt encounters resistance, adjust the nut's position to ensure proper alignment of the holes.
Tighten the bolt clockwise until fully secured. Attach a hex wrench to the bolt's end and stabilize the nut using a screwdriver. Rotate the hex wrench clockwise to further tighten the bolt within the nut. Ensure the barrel nut remains stationary throughout the tightening process.
- The barrel nut will snugly secure against the bed frame, effectively holding the bolt in place.
Pro Tip: To conceal the bolt hole, consider purchasing a bed bolt cover from your local hardware store. Various decorative styles are available to complement your frame.
Securing Bolts Using Washers and Nuts
Align the bolt holes on the frame components. Hold the bed's end post upright with one hand while aligning the side rail with the other hand. Ensure that the pre-drilled holes in both the side rail and the end post are aligned for easy insertion of the bolt.
- Consider having someone assist you in holding the opposite end of the side rail steady to facilitate hole alignment.
- Depending on the bed frame, there may be a metal bracket with holes or a hole through the end of the side rail. Refer to the frame's manual for bolt insertion guidance.
Insert the bolt through the aligned holes. Once the holes are aligned, insert the bolt through the hole in the end post and push it through to the other side. If the bolt doesn't pass through completely, adjust the side rail to realign the holes. Maintain hold on the end post to prevent accidental dislodging of the bolt.
Attach a washer and nut to the threaded end of the bolt. Slide a washer onto the threaded end of the bolt and position it against the frame. Then, thread a nut onto the bolt next to the washer and turn it clockwise. Continue rotating the nut until it contacts the washer, securely fastening the bolt in place.
- Washers and nuts are ideal for use on metal bed frames or wooden frames where barrel nuts are unsuitable.
Pro Tip: If the bolt's end is situated in a tight space, making it difficult to thread the nut, use a small straightedge or ruler to keep the nut flat against the threading for easier screwing.
Tighten the bolt and nut using a screwdriver and pliers. Hold the nut firmly in place with pliers to prevent movement or rotation. Then, use a screwdriver in conjunction with pliers to turn the bolt clockwise. As you screw in the bolt, the nut will advance along the threading, securing the connection. Continue tightening the bolt until it becomes difficult to turn.
- Consider purchasing a bed bolt cover to conceal the insertion hole. Bed bolt covers are available in various styles to complement your decor.
Helpful Tips
Important Warnings
- Be cautious not to apply excessive force when tightening the bolts to avoid stripping the screws.
Materials Needed
Installation Using Barrel Nuts
- Items Needed for Installation:
- Bed bolts
- Barrel nuts
- Screwdriver
- Hex wrench
Securing Bolts with Washers and Nuts
- Items Needed for Installation:
- Bed bolts
- Washers
- Nuts
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
