Get matched with top furniture refinishers in Canaan, VT

Yes, it can be worth it to refinish furniture, especially if it’s a piece with sentimental value or an antique piece that’s irreplaceable. If you have an older piece of furniture but want to upgrade its look or feel, refinishing is a great way to refresh it to enjoy for many years. When determining whether it’s worth the cost to refinish a furniture item, calculate the price of buying a new, similar piece and compare that to quotes from local furniture refinishing services.

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.

Telling the difference between high-quality wood furniture and lower-quality pieces is challenging, but there are a few sign that indicate whether your furniture is worth repairing:

• Push your fingernail into an inconspicuous section of the wood. If it doesn’t leave a dent, it’s likely hardwood and is well worth a repair.

• Unzip the bottom of couches to look for the structural components. If they’re made of wood rather than particle board, it’s likely worth refinishing.

• Ask a local furniture repair technician. A reputable professional will let you know if you’re better off replacing rather than refinishing your specific item.

Regularly check and tighten bolts, avoid overloading, and inspect for wear.