How Long Does It Take to Install a Murphy Bed?

Quick Answer

Installing a Murphy bed takes 4–8 hours when assembling from a kit, assuming two people are working together. A fully custom built-in Murphy bed with surrounding cabinetry can take 2–4 days of carpentry work. The biggest variables are the type of mechanism, whether the wall needs reinforcement, and the complexity of any built-in shelving or trim.

Installation Time by Type

Murphy Bed Type	Installation Time	Skill Level	Typical Cost
DIY hardware kit (mechanism only)	6–8 hours	Intermediate	$200–$500
Pre-built cabinet kit (e.g., Lori Wall, Murphy Bed Depot)	4–6 hours	Beginner–Intermediate	$1,500–$3,500
Flat-pack kit (e.g., IKEA-style)	5–8 hours	Intermediate	$1,000–$2,500
Custom built-in (contractor)	2–4 days	Professional	$3,000–$8,000+
Full wall unit with side cabinets	3–5 days	Professional	$5,000–$12,000+

Step-by-Step Timeline (Kit Installation)

This timeline assumes a standard pre-built cabinet kit installed by two adults.

Step	Time	Details
Unpack and inventory parts	15–30 minutes	Verify all hardware and panels
Locate and mark wall studs	15–20 minutes	Critical — bed must anchor to studs
Reinforce wall (if needed)	30–60 minutes	Add blocking between studs
Assemble cabinet frame	60–90 minutes	Follow manufacturer sequence
Mount frame to wall	30–45 minutes	Lag bolts into studs
Install bed mechanism (pistons or springs)	45–60 minutes	Most precise step
Attach bed platform and mattress support	30–45 minutes	Ensure level alignment
Install trim, legs, and handles	20–30 minutes	Finishing touches
Test and adjust mechanism	15–30 minutes	Smooth operation check
Total	4–6 hours

Wall Requirements

The wall where a Murphy bed is mounted must be structurally sound. This is the most common source of delays.

Standard drywall over studs works for most kit installations as long as the frame is lag-bolted directly into at least two studs. Most kits require 16-inch on-center stud spacing.

Concrete or masonry walls require concrete anchors and a masonry drill bit, adding 30–60 minutes to the installation.

Walls without adequate studs (such as older homes with irregular framing) may need a structural backing board — a sheet of 3/4-inch plywood mounted across multiple studs. This adds 30–60 minutes.

Kit vs. Custom Comparison

Factor	Kit	Custom Built-In
Installation time	4–8 hours	2–5 days
Can be DIY?	Yes (2 people)	Rarely
Finish quality	Good (laminate/veneer)	Excellent (solid wood, paint-grade)
Customization	Limited sizes and colors	Unlimited
Integrated storage	Basic shelves	Full cabinetry, desks, lighting
Removable?	Yes, with some wall repair	Usually permanent

Common Pitfalls That Add Time

• Not checking floor level — An unlevel floor causes the bed to hang unevenly. Shimming the base can add 20–30 minutes.
• Wrong mattress thickness — Most Murphy beds require a mattress no thicker than 10–12 inches. An oversized mattress prevents the bed from closing and may require a return and replacement.
• Electrical and outlet conflicts — Outlets behind the bed frame may need to be relocated, adding 1–2 hours if an electrician is needed.
• Skipping the second person — While not impossible solo, mounting the frame and aligning the mechanism are significantly harder and more dangerous without a helper.

Mechanism Types

Piston (gas spring) mechanisms are the most common in modern kits. They provide smooth, controlled motion and are easier to install. Typical lifespan is 10,000+ cycles.

Coil spring mechanisms are found in older or budget designs. They require more precise tension adjustment and can be harder to install, adding 15–30 minutes to the mechanism step.

Counterbalance (weight-based) systems are used in high-end custom installations and require professional calibration.