This is a sturdy, simple piece. No creaking and cracking. Fabric headboard is very sharp. We have a foam mattress from a box in king size, and there is an inch of space on each side of the mattress showing slats. I rarely make the bed with the sheets tucked under the mattress with rails exposed, that this is not going to be much of an issue for me. I do wish it fit properly. Are all king mattress is not created equal We took our time compressing the sides before screwing in the slats, and that seem to really help with the excess space.￼