Memory foam mattresses are great for many people because they have a material that cradles you and helps you drift off to sleep. But because foam is firmer than a bed with springs, you need extra support. So, a mattress foundation is what you need.
Today, we’ll talk about how to build a memory foam mattress foundation for a memory foam mattress.
Also, how it can help you make the most of your memory foam bed, whether you’re replacing your present mattress or want a better sleep method.
8 Easy Steps to Make Memory Foam Mattress Foundation
Putting a memory foam mattress base together can be tricky, but don’t worry! A slatted base is like constructing a fortress for your bed’s mattress and is a terrific choice.
You will feel like royalty on this solid base and your mattress.
1. Gather Materials and Tools
Gather all your equipment and materials. All you need are the following;
- Wood Strips
- Wood Glue
- Nails
- A Saw
- A Dust Mask
- Circular Saw or Table Saw
- An Orbital Sander
- Brad Nailer
2. Planning
A clear plan must be in place before the building can start. This means figuring out how big the foundation needs to be based on the mattress size and any height preferences.
You may plan the dimension of the foundation as per the size of your bed. The standard height of a slatted foundation is 9 inches.
If you’re unsure of what size foundation to build or would like some help figuring that out, there are a few factors you’ll need to consider.
First and foremost is the mattress size. You’ll need to figure out how much room the mattress takes up on your bed and then use that number to determine the size of the foundation.
Next, you’ll want to decide whether you want a full or queen-sized foundation. A full-sized foundation will fit a king-size mattress, while a queen-sized foundation will fit a standard twin mattress.
Finally, consider your height preferences. A shorter foundation may be best for you if you’re shorter than average. Conversely, a taller foundation may be more appropriate if you’re taller than average.
3. Construction Process | At a Glance
Make sure you have enough space when you build your mattress foundation. If possible, we advise making it in the bedroom where it will remain or in a designated workspace.
To construct the frame, join the two side parts to the end pieces. They can be held together with wood glue, so the wood doesn’t move when you hammer the nails.
Please find out how long the wood is to cure so you can make appropriate plans.
Wooden panels attached to the outside of the foundation structure make the ideal mattress cradle construction. It will be easier to build this way. Then, once the frame is done, glue the panels to it and put screws in the corners to make it stronger.
After the outside frame is in place, put the cross bars in. Because your slats will run the bed length, they should be lengthwise. Again, you can glue them in place with wood glue.
After the glue is dry, you can use either nails or screws, but screws are better. To work more quickly, if you plan to utilize screws, you should drill a hole first. However, with time, nails might start to pull out.
4. Considerations
Putting a memory foam mattress on a box spring foundation is like trying to build a castle on top of a trampoline. It’s just not the best way to do things.
The mattress will eventually lose shape as the memory foam in the center, close to the spring coils, sinks over time.
However, you need not worry; a Bunkie board placed between the box spring and the mattress will provide the required support for the mattress, much like creating a firm foundation.
5. Cutting the Woods
Take out the saw or go to the hardware store and have the wood cut for you. When you have all your parts, quickly run a sander over them to remove any burrs.
Avoid making the base too short for the mattress by making inaccurate cuts.
6. Required Wood Strip Sizes
You’ll need 15 pieces of 2x4s that are 10 inches long, which is 2 inches shorter than the height you want your foundation to be.
You’ll also need 6 pieces of 1x4s that are 80 inches long, the same length as your mattress, and 14 pieces of 1x4s that are 60 inches long (2 for beam securing and the rest for the foundation surface).
7. Making the Support Beams
Attach five 24 strips to the end of your longest 14 strips, ensuring an even distance between them. Use wood glue and a brad nailer to hold the joints together.
Turn the structure over and connect another long 14 strips. Do this again. Do this step twice more to make three support beams.
8. Assemble the Foundation
The foundation should be put together on top of your bed frame to simplify things. So you won’t have to move it when it’s done, and you can make sure it fits perfectly.
Layout the remaining beam horizontally in the center, with the other two beams placed on the bed frame’s opposing sides.
Put 14 strips on both sides of all three beams to keep them in place. Now, evenly space nine board slats across the beams. Apply wood glue and use a brad nailer to fasten the slats together.
Now you’re ready to use your foundation.
How Important is a Foundation for a Memory Foam Mattress?
1. Prolong the Lifespan of a Mattress
When it comes to mattresses, the foundation can make all the difference. Not just in terms of comfort also helps prolong your mattress’s lifespan.
It will help keep your mattress firm and stable, preventing it from sagging and becoming worn out.
In addition, a well-constructed foundation can also minimize the risk of accidents or spills, keeping your mattress in better condition overall.
2. Getting the Best out of the Mattress
Foundation beds provide a stable base (motion isolation), preventing movement and providing support for your mattress. A good foundation will also help maintain your bed’s shape and ensure that it is supportive and comfortable.
To choose the proper foundation, consider your bed’s shape and size. A good foundation will also support a variety of mattress types. If you have a traditional bed, look for a broad enough foundation to support the mattress and frame.
If you have a memory foam or latex mattress, choose a foundation to support these mattresses.
3. Increasing the Height of the Bed
Mattress foundations provide bed height. Avoid sleeping on a mattress without foundation. It exposes you to floor debris, dust, and cold.
Another issue with floor beds is getting out of bed. Older people with back and leg discomfort struggle to get out of low beds. Thus, the floor-to-mattress distance should be at least 20 inches. It makes climbing out of bed easy and safe.
4. Keeping the Mattress Clean and Hygienic
With a mattress foundation, the mattress won’t get dirty or wet from the floor as the moisture is soaked up well by memory foam mattresses.
Leaving the mattress on the floor without a base will let dirt and moisture into the memory foam.
Mold and mildew grow because of these things that shouldn’t be there. They also have allergens that are bad for you. So, the mattress gets old and worn quickly.
5. Comfort and Airflow
They help improve airflow and reduce pressure points so you can sleep all night soundly, which can help you stay cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
What is the Average Cost of Building a Memory Foam Mattress Foundation
The foundation’s materials should cost about as much as $50.
It could cost a bit more if you don’t already have the power tools, but having a solid base for your memory foam mattress is worth it, and it’s like a fun DIY project.
FAQs
Are the bed frame and foundation the same?
Mattress foundations are not bed frames. A mattress foundation usually comes on top of a bed frame, supports your mattress and body as you sleep, and extends its longevity. In contrast, a bed frame supports the mattress only.
Is a memory foam mattress suitable for a box spring foundation?
Never put a memory foam mattress on top of a box spring. Any base with slats wider than 2.75 inches will cause the memory foam to sag.
The most incredible night’s sleep is on a bed with slats.
Conclusion
Be careful not to hit any nails or screws already in the wood as you work. You might need to plan to ensure that your legs fit together right. You can keep your memory foam mattress from sagging with a suitable base.
The exact step to build a memory foam mattress foundation is to start with the outside frame, then the cradle, crossbars, slats, and legs. The overall stability of the frame will depend on how well it is measured and what materials are used.
