requires advance planning to ensure effective use of limited space.
When performing a camper conversion, one of the most common aspects of the project entails the installation of sleeping accommodations. Typically, the bed frame is constructed along with other furnishings and accessories in the camper, including a kitchen and storage area. One of the most common designs incorporate storage under the bed frame to make effective use of available space.
Instructions
1. Prepare the camper for the bed framing installation by removing components from the designated bed space. Use masking tape to outline the perimeter of the bed frame, which usually has a storage compartment underneath. This helps visualize the bed frame in relationship to other components.
2. Remove the panels and install rigid foam board insulation behind the panel; on the side, secure the panels back in place. Make other enhancements as necessary before installing the bed frame.
3. Determine the mattress size for the bed. Construct the bedroom frame, width and length, based on the dimensions of the mattress. Build the frame outside the camper. Cut ¾-inch plywood the same dimensions as the mattress. This piece serves as the frame's base and secures it to the camper floor.
4. Fabricate the bed frame-storage structure out of 2-by-2-inch construction-grade lumber. Select straight boards for the project. Cut four 2-by-2 vertical posts for each corner of the plywood base. Pre-drill the pilot holes for the screws, though the underside of the plywood, into the vertical boards.
5. Secure the vertical posts to the plywood. Apply construction adhesive on the end of the post. Inserting two screws from the underside of the plywood into the posts.
6. Measure the width-long side between the posts. Cut two 2-by-2-inch horizontal cross braces. The horizontal cross braces provide stability for the frame, and install on top of the vertical posts.
7. Pre-drill the pilot holes through the top horizontal braces into the vertical posts. Apply heavy-duty construction on both vertical and horizontal components. Secure with screws.
Measure the space for the shorter horizontal cross braces. Cut the 2-by-2 boards and secure.
8. Install posts and a horizontal cross brace in the center of the frame, to provide more strength to the frame. Apply ¾-inch plywood to this component and to the sides
9. Install the frame in the camper. Drill a hole thought the plywood and camper bed. Secure the plywood to the camper floor with six 5/8-inch diameter carriage bolts. Tighten with washers and nuts.
10. Place the modular storage units in the frame. Cut the plywood support for the mattress. Screw the plywood to the top of the frame with screws. Place the mattress on the bed frame.
Tags: horizontal cross, vertical posts, cross braces, horizontal cross braces, camper floor, dimensions mattress, -inch plywood