Is it hard to assemble a dresser?
It really depends on the dresser and your experience. A small, simple dresser might only take an hour, but larger, more intricate designs can take several hours and become frustrating. If you're not confident with tools or just want to help ensure it's built correctly, hiring a pro for furniture assembly is a great option.
What are some common problems with DIY dresser assembly?
Some of the most common problems with dresser assembly include:
Confusing instructions: The diagrams can be hard to read, or the steps might be unclear or out of order.
Missing or incorrect hardware: It’s common to find you’re short a few screws or have been given parts that don’t match the instructions.
Misaligned holes and panels: Pieces don’t always fit together perfectly, which can prevent a secure and stable build.
Damaged parts: It’s disappointing, but pieces sometimes arrive from the factory with scratches, dents, or cracks.
Drawer alignment issues: Getting drawers to fit correctly and slide smoothly on their tracks is often the most challenging part of the job.
What questions should I ask dresser assembly pros?
Ask these questions to help you find the right professional for dresser assembly:
How much experience do you have with this specific brand or type of dresser?
Will you bring all the necessary tools, or do I need to provide anything?
How long do you estimate the assembly will take?
How do you charge for the service — is it a flat rate or hourly?
Are you insured in case of accidental damage to the dresser or my home?
Does your service include removing packaging materials and cleaning up the work area?
Do you guarantee your work if I run into any issues with the dresser later?
What factors impact the cost of dresser assembly?
How much a pro charges to assemble your dresser depends on a wide range of factors, including:
The dresser’s complexity. A simple, three-drawer dresser will likely cost less to build than a large armoire with intricate details, multiple doors, and shelving. This is a common factor across many types of furniture assembly projects.
Size and weight. Larger or heavier dressers can be more difficult to handle and may require two people to assemble safely, which can affect the price.
Additional tasks. If you need the pro to move the dresser to a different room, anchor it to the wall for safety, or haul away the packaging, these services will typically add to the total cost.
Condition of the item. If parts are missing or damaged, or if the instructions are unclear, the job may take longer than expected and could increase the cost.
Your location. Labor rates can vary depending on where you live, so your geographic area may play a role in the final price.
How long does it take to assemble a dresser?
Dresser assembly will usually take less than a few hours, depending on a range of factors. For example:
Size and complexity: A large, multi-drawer dresser will take longer to build than a small, simple one.
Number of parts: The more individual pieces and hardware your dresser has, the more time it will take to put together.
Instruction clarity: Unclear or poorly translated instructions can slow down any furniture assembly project.
Workspace: A cluttered or small workspace can make it harder for the pro to work efficiently.
Extra steps: Tasks like anchoring the dresser to the wall for safety can add to the total time.
Remember: The timeline for your project will vary depending on many factors. Always ask your pro to provide an estimate.
