5 Tips To Buying a Great Sofa
A sofa is a major furniture investment. Not only is it the hub of any living room, more often than not, it’s an integral component of a home. Before deciding on a particular sofa, it’s important to invest serious time, thought and energy into what exactly fits your space and needs.
Given the wide variety of sofas in the market, finding your perfect piece can be a daunting task. Whether you are shopping around in a physical brick and mortar store or you are looking to buy design furniture online, it’s essential to know what exactly you are looking for. Style preferences are personal, however, when it comes to a sofa, there are several objective criteria that one needs to adhere to make sure you land a piece that makes you happy and lasts you a lifetime. Below are 5 tips for buying a great sofa;
- CHECK THE FIT AND AVAILABLE SPACE
The space and layout of your living room will dictate the size and type of sofa you’ll end up buying. It makes no sense to purchase a sofa that doesn’t fit your space. If you are living in a small house, a 7-seater sofa with full arms wouldn’t be ideal as it would take up a lot of space. The sofa should be comfortable enough for all home users while still making room for other furniture pieces. Always have the exact measurements at hand to help you purchase an appropriately sized seat.
- CHOOSE A STURDY FRAME
It’s vital to know the type of wood used to manufacture your sofa. Hardwood construction such as oak may seem like the most expensive but it’s the best investment in the long run. Softer wood such as pine may seem like a cheaper alternative, however, it may warp over the years. The method in which the frames are joined at the corners is also an important detail to consider. Opt for quality joints with metal screws with brackets as opposed to staples, nails or glue.
- INVEST IN QUALITY FILLINGS
Your lifestyle demands and day-to-day activities will influence the type of sofa for your home. Aesthetics are great and so is functionality. The frame and all the corners of the sofa should be well padded in quality fillings. Cushy seats are perfect for relaxation, while sofas with elegant silhouettes and detailed tufting are more suited for formal settings. Polyurethane foam is a common filling for most due to its durability and ease in maintenance. Go for a form density that suits you. A high-density form may feel hard while a soft one may deteriorate quicker with regular use. For quality sofas, a high-resilient form is often wrapped with a feather combo for that plump and lush feel.
- EVALUATE THE UPHOLSTERY
Quality fabrics such as cotton, microfiber and leather are critical for a visual appeal. Just as in well-tailored clothing, the type of fabric, color, texture and patterns of your sofa should match the overall theme of your home. Choose a fabric that works well with your lifestyle. Fabric with some irregularities such as a scale pattern is best for a household with children as it’s great for hiding dirt.
- TEST THE OPERATING MECHANISMS
If the sofa is a recliner or a sleeper, be sure to test the mechanisms before purchase. Motion furniture is often more expensive hence it needs to operate easily and smoothly. Don’t overlook any glitches as they will only become more pronounced after regular use in the home.
