{
  "id": "assemble-flat-pack",
  "url": "https://diy-app-beige.vercel.app/guides/assemble-flat-pack.html",
  "category": "furniture-and-storage",
  "title": "Assemble flat-pack furniture",
  "summary": "Check every component, build on a protected level surface and secure tall furniture against tipping.",
  "difficulty": "beginner",
  "duration": "One hour to a day, depending on the item",
  "riskLevel": "standard",
  "visualGuidance": {
    "level": "helpful",
    "format": "reference-diagram",
    "reason": "The maker's diagrams should be the primary visual; a parts layout can help before assembly begins.",
    "brief": "Arrange labelled parts and fixings in the same orientation and numbering used in the manufacturer's instructions."
  },
  "materials": [
    "The complete furniture pack and manufacturer-supplied hardware",
    "Manufacturer-approved wall restraint and verified wall fixings for tall or unstable items",
    "Floor protection and small parts containers"
  ],
  "tools": [
    "The exact hand tools listed in the instructions",
    "Low-torque driver only if the maker permits it",
    "Tape measure, square and level",
    "Detector and fixing tools only for an approved wall restraint"
  ],
  "preparation": [
    "Read the full instructions and confirm the product has no active safety recall.",
    "Count and identify every part before assembly.",
    "Protect a clear, level floor area large enough to turn the item safely.",
    "Arrange a second person for large panels, lifting and standing the item up."
  ],
  "safety": [
    "Do not substitute fixings, alter parts or use power tools where the instructions prohibit them.",
    "Secure tall, climbable or drawer-front-heavy furniture using the specified restraint and a fixing suited to the verified wall.",
    "Keep small parts, bags and tools away from children and pets."
  ],
  "steps": [
    {
      "title": "Inventory the pack",
      "instruction": "Match panels, fixings and fittings to the parts page and set aside anything damaged or missing."
    },
    {
      "title": "Set the orientation",
      "instruction": "Identify front, back, finished faces and hole patterns before inserting any hardware."
    },
    {
      "title": "Follow the maker's sequence",
      "instruction": "Complete one numbered stage at a time and keep connectors loose until the instruction says to tighten."
    },
    {
      "title": "Square and tighten",
      "instruction": "Check diagonals or back-panel alignment, then tighten by hand without crushing the board."
    },
    {
      "title": "Position and restrain",
      "instruction": "Lift with help, level the item and install the specified anti-tip restraint into a confirmed safe fixing point.",
      "stopIf": "Do not use tall or unstable furniture until its required restraint is safely installed."
    }
  ],
  "professionalCheckpoints": [
    "Use a competent installer if the item is exceptionally large, must be wall-hung or the safe restraint point is uncertain."
  ]
}