How To Fix A Bent Metal Bed Frame
Metal bed frames have a simple and sleek design that complements any bedroom. Unfortunately, these frames also have a tendency to bend or warp over time. Fortunately, it’s easy to repair your bent metal bed frame with the right tools and materials. In just an hour or two, you can straighten the frame and return it to its original shape.
How To Fix A Bent Metal Bed Frame
These steps will help you fix a bent metal bed frame at home:
Step 1: Measure The Bend
First, you’ll want to measure the bend. This will help you determine which areas of the frame need to be heated and bent. You’ll want to use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the distance between the top and bottom of the bend. You can mark the measurement with a pen or pencil so you don’t forget it. For example, if the frame is bent at the headboard, you want to measure the distance from the headboard to the footboard. This will let you know how much the frame needs to be bent to straighten it.
Step 2: Prepare Your Repair Tools
The first thing you’re going to need is a workbench. This will make it easier to work on the frame and keep it stable. Most workbenches are around 36 inches across. This is wide enough to hold the frame and keep it in place while you work on it.
Next, you’ll need a few tools to repair your bent frame. You’ll want a pair of pliers, a screwdriver, a small hammer, and a pair of gloves. The gloves are optional, but they can help protect your hands from cuts and scrapes.
Finally, you’ll need some boards to place under the frame. You’ll use these to prop the frame up and make it easier to work on. You can buy wooden planks at most hardware stores for a couple dollars per board.
Step 3: Heat The Bend
Once you’ve measured the bend and gathered your tools, you can move on to heating the bend. Start by heating one end of the frame. Position the heat gun so the hot air is blowing towards the end of the frame with the bend. Keep the heat gun on the frame until the bend begins to soften.
Next, you’ll want to bend the other side of the frame in the opposite direction. To do this, turn the heat gun off and wait for the frame to cool. Once the frame is cool, bend the frame in the opposite direction with your hands. Be careful to bend the frame slowly and carefully so you don’t break it.
Step 4: Straighten The Frame
Once the frame has cooled, use your pliers to bend the frame back into place. Hold the frame in place with your other hand to keep it steady. Rock the frame back and forth a few times to make sure it stays in place. Once you’ve straightened the frame, you can prop it up and make it easier to work on. Cut a board into two pieces and place one under each end of the frame. This will support the frame and let you work on it more easily. You can use wooden planks purchased at the hardware store or you can find scrap pieces of wood and use those instead. You can also use bricks or concrete blocks to prop up the frame. You might have to improvise a bit, but bricks or blocks can work well in a pinch.
Step 5: Add Shims To Fix Bent Frames
If the frame is still too bent to use, you can add shims to help support the frame and make it easier to use. Start by measuring the distance between the top of each side of the frame. This will let you know how many shims you need to add. For example, if the frame is bent at the headboard, you want to add shims to support the footboard.
Next, cut each shim into two pieces and place them between the bottom of each side of the frame. You’ll want to put shims under each leg of the frame to support each corner. This will help hold the frame in place and prevent it from bending again.
Alternate Method: Get A New Frame
If you’ve tried to fix your frame and it’s still not straight, you may need to get a new frame. Bent metal frames are difficult to straighten and often don’t hold their shape for long. Some metal beds have wooden frames or panels, which are easier to bend and repair. If you have a wooden frame, you can use the steps above to fix a bent metal bed frame.
If you have a wooden frame, you can try to straighten the wood and reuse it. This can be tricky, though, and may not be worth the effort. You can also try to replace the bent panel with a new one. It can be challenging to find replacement parts for some metal beds, though. You may have to get creative and search online for different parts, or buy a new bed altogether.
Conclusion
Metal bed frames are a convenient and affordable option for any bedroom. Unfortunately, they have a tendency to bend over time. Luckily, it’s easy to repair a bent metal bed frame. All you need is a heat gun, a workbench, and a few tools. Measure the bend, heat the frame, bend the frame, and add shims to support the frame. You can straighten your metal bed frame in just a few hours and have it looking like new again.
