I have brothers and boys and have had a ton of bunk beds. The last one was over $1k and had to be tightened every month or the screws fell out. This bed is fantastic. It took longer to put together because of all of the reinforced parts. It was well worth the time. At my son's request we put a twin mattress on there and a piece of plywood on the open area. This gives him room for drinks, legos or anything else he wants to do in bed. We put a love seat underneath. It made for a really cool room. We are very happy with it. Much better than the expensive bed we bought at a major retailer for my other son.