Expert: Eileen Cronk - 12/18/2007

Question
We just inherited a set of bunk beds that my husband's grandfather built.  
The headboards are constructed using 2 solid wood posts with a wood board
attaching them.   The board has 2 decorative cut-outs in semi-circles next to
each post.  Both headboards have cracks (going all the way through) at the
lower semi-circle.  Since they are bunk beds, we are concerned with safety
and since they will be climbed upon, they need to be pretty solid.  When
slightly flexed, we can see the cracks flex.  Is there any way to repair this??   
We'd really like to keep these beds.  Thanks!

Answer
Hi Amy
Nice to hear from you
Amy there is always a way to fix wood LOL.
In this case there is a right way and a not so right way.
The right way is to remove the headboards from the posts. I suspect the headboards will be mortised into the posts and it sounds like the glue there has failed too so they should be easily knocked out with a rubber mallet.
then glue and clamp the headboards back together back together.
If the boards are actually broken right into two pieces I would use biscuit joins for added strength. This is possible in some cases like this but not all. Its possible in the case of a clean break, but if its not clean, you can damage loose wood fibers with the biscuit joiner and have a bigger mess...been there LOL.
I can't tell you without actually seeing the damage.
After the glue has dried on the boards, they will need to be glued back into the posts.
The not so right way is to force glue into the crack making sure the entire break surface is covered. Then  clamp back together.
The first and best fix could be easily done at a local wood shop if you don't have the skills.
Certainly not a big expense.
And the beds really need fixing for safety as you say.
Good Luck and great question.
Regards
Eileen