The Top 7 Mistakes People Make When Installing Flat-Pack Furniture
- urgentjoinery
- Sep 4
- 3 min read
Installing flat-pack furniture can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it can also lead to frustration if you’re not careful. As someone who has spent years assembling everything from IKEA bookshelves to complex wardrobes, I’ve seen my fair share of mistakes. In this post, I’ll share the top seven mistakes people make when installing flat-pack furniture, along with some handy flat pack assembly tips to help you avoid them.
1. Skipping the Instructions
One of the biggest mistakes I see is people skipping the instructions altogether. I get it; those manuals can be a bit overwhelming. However, they are there for a reason!
Taking the time to read through the instructions can save you a lot of headaches later on. You might think you can figure it out on your own, but trust me, following the steps in the manual will lead to a smoother assembly process.
2. Not Organizing Parts
Another common mistake is not organizing the parts before starting the assembly. When you open that flat-pack box, it can look like a jigsaw puzzle exploded!
Take a few minutes to lay out all the pieces and sort them by type. This will make it much easier to find what you need as you go along. Plus, it will help you avoid the dreaded moment of realizing you’re missing a crucial piece halfway through the build.

3. Using the Wrong Tools
Many people think they can get away with using whatever tools they have lying around. However, using the wrong tools can lead to damage and frustration.
Make sure you have the right tools for the job. Most flat-pack furniture comes with the necessary tools, but having a good screwdriver and a hammer on hand can make a world of difference. If you’re in Sydney and need help, consider hiring a local Sydney furniture installer to ensure everything is put together correctly.
4. Ignoring the Level
A common IKEA build mistake is not checking if the furniture is level. If your new shelf or cabinet isn’t level, it can lead to all sorts of problems down the line, including doors that don’t close properly or items that slide off.
Before you finish the assembly, take a moment to check that everything is level. A simple spirit level can help you ensure that your furniture is perfectly aligned.

5. Rushing the Process
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to rush through tasks, but assembling flat-pack furniture is not one of those tasks you want to speed through.
Take your time and enjoy the process. Rushing can lead to mistakes, such as missing screws or incorrectly assembled parts. Remember, it’s better to take a little longer and do it right than to have to redo it later.
6. Not Enlisting Help
Many people try to tackle flat-pack assembly alone, but this can lead to unnecessary stress.
Don’t hesitate to ask a friend or family member for help. Having an extra set of hands can make the process much smoother and more enjoyable. Plus, it’s a great way to bond over a shared project!
7. Forgetting to Secure Everything
Finally, one of the most critical mistakes is forgetting to secure everything properly. It’s easy to assume that once the furniture is assembled, it’s good to go.
However, make sure to double-check that all screws and fittings are tightened and secure. This will ensure that your furniture is stable and safe to use.

Conclusion
Assembling flat-pack furniture doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can make the process much smoother and more enjoyable. Remember to take your time, read the instructions, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.
If you find yourself overwhelmed or simply don’t have the time, consider hiring a professional Sydney furniture installer. They can take the stress out of the assembly process and ensure that everything is put together correctly.
Happy assembling!



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