custom upholstery and auto restoration, in business for 34 years
custom upholstery and auto restoration, in business for 34 years
Upholstering questions, answered by experts
Reupholstering is often worthwhile for high-quality, antique, or sentimental couches, especially if the frame is sturdy. It can cost less than buying a comparable new piece and allows for customization, but may not be cost-effective for low-end furniture.
Upholstering allows personalization, extends furniture life, conserves resources, refreshes decor, and often costs less than buying new pieces.
Although it’s not standard, many upholstery professionals offer warranties on their workmanship, typically ranging from six months to several years. However, most warranties don't cover normal wear and tear, damage from spills and other accidents, or problems with the original furniture frame. Before starting your project, be sure to ask about warranty terms, what is covered, and any exclusions.
It can be cheaper to reupholster a chair or other piece of furniture than to buy a new one, depending on how much it costs to replace. If the chair or couch originally cost less than $300, then reupholstery may not be the cheapest option. However, if the chair is expensive, vintage, or discontinued, reupholstery can be the more affordable option. This is especially true if the piece of furniture is out-of-production or holds sentimental value.
As with any project, weighing the pros and cons of upholstery can help determine if that is the right choice for you. The ultimate question is whether it’s worth reupholstering instead of buying new furniture. Here are a few of the benefits and disadvantages of reupholstering a piece of furniture.
Pros:
Preserving a family heirloom
Maintaining high-quality furniture in good condition
Reinventing an old piece of furniture
Keeping a piece of furniture from going to a landfill
Cons:
Spending (possibly) more than to buy a new piece of furniture
Finding out the frame is beyond repair
Waiting for the reupholstery work to be done
The Kimmins, TN homeowners’ guide to upholstering services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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