5 Common Furniture Assembly Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)

From IKEA flat-packs to custom-made luxury sets, furniture assembly is an art form that can quickly turn into a nightmare if not approached correctly. Whether you're furnishing a new condo in Liberty Village or a home in North York, these tips will save you hours of frustration.

1. The "Loose-Screw" Catastrophe

A common mistake is tightening screws fully as you go. This can lead to an uneven frame. Professional assemblers know to tighten screws to about 70%, then firm them up once the entire piece is standing and leveled. This is crucial for large items like wardrobes and bed frames.

2. Ignoring the Level

Toronto floors—especially in older Victorian homes and modern condos—can be surprisingly uneven. If your furniture isn't level, doors won't shut properly and drawers will stick. Always use a level and adjust the feet if the piece allows for it.

3. Power Tool Pitfalls

Using a power drill at high speed is the #1 way to strip screws and crack modern particleboard. Always set your drill to a low-torque setting, or better yet, do the final turns by hand to feel the resistance.