Flat-pack furniture: assembling smoothly and safely

Before you open the box

• Check you have the right number of packages – larger furniture often comes in several.
• Pick a room with clear floor space, ideally where the piece will stand.
• Lay the flattened box down as a mat so parts and floor are not scratched.
• Keep the instructions and fittings together.

Sort before you build

Lay out every part and count the fittings against the list in the instructions. Missing pieces are easier to spot now than halfway through. Sort screws by type into small bowls.

Tools and technique

• Use a drill-driver on low speed or hand tools – over-tightened screws ruin chipboard.
• Tighten loosely first and fully only once the frame stands square.
• Leave the back panel until the piece is square; it locks the shape.
• Tall or wide pieces need two people.

Wall anchoring – more important than it sounds

Tall furniture such as bookcases and wardrobes should be fixed to the wall following the manufacturer’s instructions, especially where there are children. The right plug depends on the wall type. If you are unsure what is inside the wall, such as wiring or pipes, do not drill – that is a job for a professional.

What is not included on POFFIX

Furniture assembly and simple fittings suit POFFIX well. Electrical installation, hard-wiring a cooker or oven and plumbing are regulated work requiring authorisation and cannot be booked here.