In most cases, it is more affordable to reupholster furniture than it is to replace it, but it depends on the quality and age of the furniture you’re considering getting reupholstered. Antique pieces are always worth reupholstering, as it’s the only way to preserve the piece and extend its life. Newer pieces of furniture are more often made using lower-quality materials like medium-density fiberboard or plywood that don’t have the same lifespan as things like hardwood. For newer pieces, your furniture reupholstery specialist should be able to help you determine the best course of action.
The best way to test the quality of a leather couch is to put your hands on it. If the upholstery is soft and warm, that’s a good indication that the quality is higher. It should also smell like traditional leather. If it smells like chemicals, you’re probably dealing with low-grade leather.
You can make your dining room look more expensive using one or more of several methods. If you're remodeling, you can consider raising the ceiling height, installing an elegant chandelier, or redoing the floor. For smaller renovations, consider changing the paint color to a deep and rich tone, such as burgundy or emerald. You can also swap out the table and chairs to achieve a richer appearance.
The average time it takes to reupholster a piece of furniture is around eight hours, but it varies significantly based on the piece. A professional can usually reupholster smaller furniture units like dining chairs or small ottomans in two to three hours, while an entire sofa might take several days or up to a week. Antique furniture tends to take longer to reupholster because greater care needs to be taken to preserve the piece. Your timeline might be a bit longer if you need other repairs done, like sanding and refinishing wood components.
When hiring an upholsterer, look for a pro with experience in your chair type, positive reviews, and a portfolio of completed projects. Ask about their process, timeline, warranty, and whether they are insured. Getting multiple quotes from reupholsterers in your area and checking their references can help ensure quality and fair pricing.
The Keaau, HI homeowners’ guide to upholstering services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Your furniture refinishing cost will vary depending on the refinishing method, the type of furniture, and labor costs. Learn your potential furniture refinishing cost.
Discover the cost to reupholster a couch in 2025, including average prices, key cost factors, and tips to help you budget for your next upholstery project.
•