Mattress Foundation Description
Mattresses are typically sold as a set with a matching foundation, a mostly rigid support system that is designed to go directly below the mattress. There are a number of types of foundations, and it is always recommended to purchase a mattress and foundation together. Mattress foundations help your mattress to live longer and stay comfortable, by absorbing most of the stress and weight placed on your bed.
Standard Foundation
Height: 8" - 9"The standard profile box foundation is the most common height for a foundation.
Low Profile Foundation
Height: 4½" - 5½"If a standard foundation makes your bed too high to get into and out of easily, a low profile box spring may be desired. Low profile foundations will also keep your mattress from covering a low-sitting headboard.
Split Foundation
Height: 4½" - 5½" or 8" - 9"A split queen, split king and split cal king all come as two pieces. Typically the split version is purchased when buying an adjustable base. This allows for independent movement for each individual. If you have small hallways or narrow staircases the split eases the moving and assembly process also.
Standard Frame
Height: 7¼"Keep your box spring and mattress off the floor. A standard frame is a steel frame that must have a center support in king and queen sizes.
Low Profile Frame
Height: 4¼"Low profile bed frames are designed to lower your bed and fully support your mattress and box spring without the use of a headboard or a footboard. Use low profile bed rails when you have both a headboard and a footboard and you want to lower your bed.
Adjustable Base
Height: 4½" - 5½" or 8" - 9"An adjustable base is a foundation which has a multi-hinged lying surface which can be profiled to a number of different positions with a remote. Common adjustment includes inclining the upper body and raising the lower body independently of each other.