Which Wall Bed is Right for You?

Find the perfect bed for your needs

Wall beds and folding wall beds are your best options if you're looking to save space in your home without sacrificing style. Still, it's important to know exactly what you're looking for when buying and installing a new wall bed, so that the wall bed you purchase suits your needs and fits your home. One of the first things to take into consideration is the mechanism that your wall bed uses to fold into and away from its cabinet against the wall. The type of the mechanism dictates nearly all the facets of your bed's construction, and it's worth learning about them before making your final decision.

Spring into action

A spring mechanism is the traditional mechanism found in wall beds. Most wall beds use a compressed spring, which is concealed in steel casing within the bed's frame. Tried and true, a spring mechanism allows for comfort and ease when lowering or lifting your wall bed, but it also has its shortfalls. After years of use, the springs may become fatigued and need to be adjusted slightly to provide the correct amount of tension to keep the bed from sagging out of the frame.

Quite a piston!

A piston mechanism that uses either gas or air pressure to assist you in retracting your bed is the other common type of mechanism used in wall beds. Much like the spring mechanism, a piston will make raising and lowering your bed much easier. Unlike those with a spring mechanism, however, beds that rely on a piston system are typically much less likely to sag, contributing to the overall longevity of the bed. Pistons don't require adjustment either - a fact that makes them seem the smarter choice. But remember, because the pistons can't be adjusted, proper installation is crucial and may require professional help.

Your wall bed will stand the test of time

It's important to take your time when making your choice to be sure you'll be just as happy with your wall bed in 20 years as you are today.