Buying a Murphy bed is an investment in making a room more functional. But choosing the right bed is only part of the process. You also need to consider how it will be installed.
For some homeowners, DIY installation is a practical way to complete the project while keeping additional costs down. Others prefer professional installation because they want experienced help with assembly, positioning, and securing the bed properly.
Understanding the cost, time, and work involved with each approach can help you choose the right installation path before purchasing your bed.
What Does Murphy Bed Installation Involve?
Murphy bed installation is more involved than simply assembling a typical piece of furniture. Depending on the design, installation can involve assembling the cabinet or frame, attaching the bed mechanism, positioning the unit, and securing it according to the manufacturer's instructions.
The installation area also needs to be prepared beforehand. Measurements should be checked to make sure the bed fits the available wall and floor space. You may also need to account for baseboards, electrical outlets, doors, windows, and surrounding furniture.
Because Murphy beds use a lifting mechanism to move the sleeping surface, proper assembly and installation are important for the bed to operate as intended.
For customers purchasing a Murphy bed, understanding these requirements early can make it easier to decide whether DIY assembly or professional installation is the better fit.
DIY Installation: What to Expect
DIY installation can make sense for homeowners who are comfortable assembling furniture, following detailed instructions, and working with tools.
The exact process depends on the Murphy bed model. A typical installation may involve assembling multiple components, attaching hardware, installing the bed mechanism, and securing the completed system in its designated location.
You will also need enough workspace to organize the components and safely work around the bed. Larger Murphy bed systems can be substantial, so having another person available may be helpful during certain stages of assembly.
The Cost of DIY Installation
The main financial advantage of DIY installation is that you avoid paying for professional labor. However, the total cost of a DIY project can still include tools or equipment you do not already own.
If you are experienced with furniture assembly and have the necessary tools, installing the bed yourself may be a practical choice. If you need to purchase several tools or are uncomfortable handling a large installation, the potential savings may be less significant.
It is useful to consider the value of your own time as part of the decision.
How Much Time Does DIY Installation Take?
The time required varies according to the Murphy bed design, the complexity of the system, and your experience level.
A straightforward installation may be manageable as a planned home project, while a larger system with cabinetry, shelving, or other features can require more time.
Before beginning, read through the installation instructions and make sure you have the necessary tools and assistance. Setting aside uninterrupted time can help prevent the project from becoming a series of partially completed tasks.
Professional Installation: What Does It Offer?
Professional installation removes much of the hands-on assembly work from the homeowner.
An installer can handle the process of putting the system together and positioning it in the room according to the manufacturer's requirements. This can be particularly useful for customers who are not comfortable with larger furniture installations or who simply prefer not to spend their time assembling the bed.
Professional installation can also be appealing when the Murphy bed is part of a larger furniture system. A unit with cabinets, shelving, a desk, or a sofa may involve more components than a basic frame.
The Cost of Professional Installation
Professional installation adds a labor cost to the overall purchase. The exact price can vary depending on the bed, installation requirements, location, and installer.
While DIY installation can reduce upfront labor expenses, professional installation provides a service that can save you time and effort.
The important question is not simply whether professional installation costs more. Consider what your time is worth, how comfortable you are with the work, and whether you have the tools and assistance needed to complete the project.
For many buyers, paying for installation can make the overall purchasing experience more convenient.
Which Option Takes Less Time?
Professional installation generally reduces the amount of hands-on time required from the homeowner because the installer handles the assembly and setup.
DIY installation requires you to dedicate your own time to the project. That does not necessarily make it a poor choice. For homeowners who enjoy projects and have the appropriate skills, installation can be a manageable part of purchasing a Murphy bed.
The key is to choose based on realistic expectations rather than assuming the installation will be as simple as putting together a small piece of furniture.
When DIY Installation May Make Sense
DIY installation may be appropriate if you:
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Are comfortable assembling large furniture systems
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Have the necessary tools
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Have enough space to work safely
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Can carefully follow manufacturer instructions
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Have another person available when needed
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Are willing to dedicate time to the project
It can be especially appealing to experienced DIYers who want to handle the entire project themselves.
When Professional Installation May Be Worth Considering
Professional installation may be a better fit if you:
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Prefer to avoid a large assembly project
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Have limited experience with furniture installation
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Do not have the necessary tools
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Have a complex Murphy bed system
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Want to minimize your own installation time
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Prefer having an experienced installer handle the setup
This can be particularly convenient when the bed is being installed in a guest room, home office, apartment, or multifunctional living space that needs to be ready for use quickly.
Choose Your Installation Path Before You Buy
The installation decision does not need to be complicated, but it should be part of your Murphy bed purchase from the beginning.
Start by considering the size and configuration of the bed, the available installation space, your experience with furniture assembly, and the amount of time you are willing to spend on the project. Then compare the potential labor cost of professional installation with the time and effort required for DIY assembly.
Murphy Bed Depot offers Murphy bed systems with installation options designed to accommodate different customer preferences. Whether you prefer to take on the project yourself or have professional help, understanding what installation actually involves can help you select a bed and purchase a path that fits your needs.