I just constructed this bed with a friend, the instructions provided were a little off, but we got it done in just under two hours. I would NOT have been able to do it on my own. I LOVE the bed, the metal actually is decently gold. I was prepared to have to spray paint it, but it's perfect. PLENTY of planks for a stable bed so not sure why it could or would ever break. the headboard is just as shown in the photos. I definitely am in love with it