10 Common Flatpack Assembly Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them Like a Pro)

Flatpack furniture can transform your home but, if you’ve ever spent a Saturday wrestling with mystery screws and upside-down panels, you know it’s not always as “simple” as it looks. At Home Flat Pack, we’ve seen it all!

Here are the 10 most common flatpack assembly mistakes and how you can avoid them.

• Skipping the instructions – Tempted to wing it? Don’t. A quick read saves hours of frustration later.
• Mixing up parts – Sort your screws, bolts, and panels before starting. It’s like giving yourself a map for success.
• Using the wrong tools – That butter knife won’t cut it (literally). A proper screwdriver or drill makes all the difference.
• Building on carpet – Uneven flooring = wobbly furniture. Always assemble on a solid, flat surface.
• Over-tightening screws – Too much pressure can crack your panels. Tighten just enough to feel secure.

Skipping steps – Each stage matters. Skipping one can throw the whole build off balance. Working alone on big builds – Large wardrobes or beds often need two pairs of hands (or one of ours!). Not checking measurements – Make sure your new piece actually fits the space before you start.

• Losing small parts – Keep screws and fixings in a small bowl or tray to avoid the dreaded “missing piece” moment.
• Underestimating time – That “quick job” can easily turn into a marathon. Plan ahead — or call in the experts.

Let the Pros Handle It

At Home Flat Pack, we take the stress out of furniture assembly. Our expert flatpack fitters build everything from IKEA wardrobes to garden furniture — quickly, correctly, and without the chaos.