It may seem like a pretty simple operation to buy something as ordinary as a sofa, but sometimes there is a risk of getting confused if you don't have a clear idea. Often people buy sofas that have a size, shape or style that doesn't suit their needs. Continue reading the article to avoid such an eventuality and be sure to buy a sofa that fits your decor and meets your personal needs.
Steps
Step 1. Find out which genre to buy
On the market there are different models of sofas that have various shapes, sizes, fabrics, materials and prices. It would be better to get a better idea of what you want. Try to think about the size and colors of the room before buying it. You should also consider the look and feel it should give you. Once you get it clear, go buy it. There are various furniture factories that exclusively produce sofas, sofas and armchairs. Alternatively, you can have a look on the Internet by visiting sites like Amazon.
Step 2. Check the frame
When you see a sofa you like, check out the frame. You can ask the seller to help you if necessary. If the frame is made of soft wood, such as pine, it will cost less, but it may also warp and warp. If it is made of plastic or metal, it may crack or chip. Kiln dried hardwood, such as beech, ash or oak, costs more, but is less likely to be damaged. The feet must be fixed to the frame with screws and pegs, not just with glue. Sometimes they are integral with the frame, but in both cases the frame must be sturdy.
Step 3. Check the padding
Polyurethane foam is the most common material for padding, because it costs less and maintenance is easy. Other types of high-density foams are inexpensive, but combinations of feathers and down are the best choice. Polyester flattens out quickly, but costs less than other fillings. Mixed polyester fibers also cost less, but they clump together and the seat takes on a lumpy appearance. A great option is the combination of down and high resilience foam. The price is reasonable and it is very convenient.
Step 4. Check the springs
Most sofas and armchairs have springs, but some are simply made with webbing or mesh bands. The springs make the sofa sturdy and comfortable. There are two types: sinusoidal or handmade. The former (also called coils) are cheaper, but they can easily damage the frame, if they are too heavy, or risk collapsing under the weight, if they are too light. Hand-made ones are more expensive, but they won't warp or damage the frame. Some experts believe that there is not a big difference between the two types. To test the springs, feel them through the upholstery. They should be taut and close to each other, but not appear to be piercing the fabric.
Step 5. Ask a few questions about the seams of the sofa
The frame must be assembled with strong materials, not just quick fixes (such as glue, staples or nails). The dowels and wooden blocks, screws and metal brackets should form the main joints that hold together the larger pieces of which the sofa is made. Glue, staples and nails are great for reinforcing the structure, but they should not be the primary supports on which the assembly stands. You should also ask the seller for some information on the manufacturer of the joints.
Step 6. Check the fabric
The appearance of the sofa is one thing, but the strength of the fabric is a completely different matter. Cotton or linen upholstery is reasonably priced and easy to clean. The microfiber compositions have a similar yield to cotton and are resistant to stains. The skin is beautiful and lasts a long time, but it is very expensive. Compositions of natural materials and polyester can stretch and wear out over time. Silk gives the sofa an elegant look, but it is very difficult to care for. Choose the style that you like best, but that is also resistant and worth the price.
Step 7. Buy your sofa
Most sofas cost around € 200 to € 2,000, but designer sofas can cost as much as € 9,000-10,000. You can set a limit, but try to give yourself a 10% margin in case you see a sofa that you like and that exceeds your budget. A good sofa should be comfortable, but not so comfortable that you sink down when you sit down and ask for help getting up. In addition, it must adequately furnish the space in which you are going to put it. You shouldn't mistake the color, shape or size.
Advice
- If you like patterns and prints, look for a fabric where color is part of the fabric. A printed pattern fades and wears out before a woven pattern.
- Before buying a sofa, ask the seller for a sample of the upholstery. Bring it home and observe it in the environment where you intend to place the sofa. You should also look at it in natural and artificial light. If you still like it after a few days, consider buying the sofa with that upholstery.
- Sit on the edges and corners. If you hear squeaking or creaking, the springs will likely be broken, improperly installed, or touching the frame. Don't buy a sofa that creaks.
- Buy the sofa at a store that allows you to try it on before purchasing. This way, you can check its characteristics. You also have the option to ask the seller a few questions about the manufacturer.
- To test the strength of the frame, lift one side about 6 inches off the ground. The other foot will have to lift by itself. If it touches the floor, the frame is weak.
- Some vendors may offer you customized solutions. This way, you will have a certain degree of freedom in your choice, but first of all, always check the quality.
