The decision to choose a bunk bed made of metal over one made of wood may seem like a cut and dry decision to thrifty parents. However, the proverbial saying "you get what you pay for" might be cause for parents to consider spending the extra money on a secure wooden loft. Though metal bunks generally boast a cheaper price tag, they also have a greater number of problems.
More Safety Recalls than Wooden Bunks
Structurally speaking, metal lofts are no match for their wooden counterparts. Metal bunk beds are more likely to be recalled for safety concerns. Past recalls have occurred for such reasons as reports of the top bunk collapsing, design flaws that could lead to entrapment between rails, and alignment issues. This is not to say that wooden lofts have not had their share of recalls. Indeed they have, but wooden bunk beds do not seem to be as riddled with problems.
Hardware Alignment Issues and Welding Failures
When it comes time to assemble the bunk bed, another problem that may crop up is an issue with the hardware not aligning. Unlike wooden bunks that would simply require a hole be drilled, it is not such an easy fix when working with metal construction.
Additionally, as the bunk is used joints that have been welded can fail. These joints must be re-welded in order for it to be a safe sleep environment, but parents may have limited access to the equipment needed to make necessary repairs.
Dented, Rusted, and Bent Safety Railing
Presumably, kids are going to use and abuse their bedroom furniture. In light of that, parents might expect that metal bunk beds are going to show wear and tear much more than wooden furniture. Metal beds are susceptible to denting and rusting.
Further, put simply wood is not malleable; metal is. Kids can be tough on furniture, and bunk beds are a popular target of children's innocent (and not so innocent) abuses. The metal structure is apt to bend with regular use, even for the most well-behaved, responsible child.
Wobbly and Unstable Design
Lastly, metal bunk beds do not have the same stability that wooden lofts offer. Metal bunks are more likely to be wobbly and unsteady. Wooden lofts will likely be preferred by parents looking for solid construction and design.
In closing, metal bunks are a less expensive alternative to wooden bunk beds, but they come with several drawbacks. Parents intending to use the bunk bed for an extended period of time or children who tend to be a bit rambunctious would be better off with a sturdy wooden loft.
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