California King Bed Frames

Considered by some to be a non-standard bed size, the California King Bed has been a popular addition to the land of sleep. Smaller in width than a standard king bed by 4 inches, the California King is 4 inches longer. The California king is also referred to by some folks as a Western King bed. Metal frames for California King beds are not readily available, even at some bed and mattress specialty stores.

A quality California King bed frame has a number of important features that provide this big bed the proper support. Even though there are a number of different styles in California King bed frames but for know we’ll be looking at the basic metal frame.

A basic metal California King bed frame is constructed of steel using material commonly called angle iron. Angle iron is strong and rigid. The basic metal California King bed frame consists of four sides joined at the corners. The shape of the angle iron provides a rail or lip that supports the foundation or box spring. Since a California King bed measures 72 inches wide by 84 inches long, the need for using a quality bed frame cannot be understated.

A quality California King bed frame should include a center support system. The purpose of the center support system is to provide support for the foundation or box spring. Since foundations and box springs for any king size bed come in two pieces, it is imperative that the frame be designed with this fact in mind. Like the corner legs, the center support system has legs that help to transfer the weight of the bed and the occupants to the floor. Simply placing slats between the side rails will not provide the proper support.

The frame legs should be strong enough to adequately support the combined weight of the mattress, foundation and the sleeper. The frame legs must be sturdy and securely fastened to the rail section of the frame. Some California King bed frames will feature either casters or large pads. Casters or wheel are convenient for moving the bed. It is very important to never change or alter the frame, including raising the height of the frame.

Some retailers offer different types of leg extenders. Using these devices can dramatically alter the design perimeters of the frame, change the center of gravity. Raising the bed frame can actually make the bed unstable. Most mattress manufacturers will not honor a mattress warranty if the bed was used with a frame that was not designed for the bed or was otherwise altered.

A basic metal California King bed frame will should include mounting plates or brackets at the head end of the frame. The brackets allow the user to securely mount a headboard to the frame. Some metal California King bed frames are designed to accommodate a footboard. If you have a headboard or footboard that hooks to the frame, there are metal bed frames available with single of double hooks. Ask you bedding retailer which type of frame is right for you.

Many of us remember the old style metal bed frames which required bolts, nuts, turn screws or other type of hardware. Newer design metal bed frames do not require additional hardware in order to properly assemble the frame. Newer metal bed frames use steel posts that are positioned on the cross bars of the frame. On the other half of the cross bar is a slot. The post goes into the slot and the two sides of the cross bar are pulled together. This is a big improvement over the old assembly design without the loose pieces that often get misplaced.

Remember to always consult an experienced bed and mattress retailer for information on what type of bed frame is right for you.