Not overly difficult to set up, seems to be very solid. Directions bit difficult to follow, suggest reading them before starting. Kids adore it and love the steps as opposed to a ladder. Replaced some of the screws on the top bunk railing by the steps with longer screws as they weren't staying in. Trundle rests on the floor and we plan to leave it pushed in. In order to keep trundle pushed in, can't use brace on lower bed. However, the brace is if you are having heavy weight sleeping on the bottom bed. As we are using it for kids, not a concern. If a couple wanted to sleep on it may have to put brace in. Very easy to put in if needed. Have had it set up about a month now and glad I chose this version of bunk bed.