Choosing home furniture can be an overwhelming task if you don’t know what you’re doing. The same goes with choosing a sofa. The range of style, color, wood type, spring system, fabric choice and differences in quality might confuse some people. And many people buy a sofa solely based on its appearance while overlooking its quality. In order to ensure that you are making the correct choice and paying a fair price for your sofa, here are some tips to get you going.

Frame – Is the frame made of kiln-dried hard wood? Kiln-dried wood is more durable and is less likely to warp, crack or weaken with time. Does the sofa have a five-legged frame? When a fifth leg is located under the center of the sofa, it provides additional support. Legs that are built into the frame versus screwed into the frame are sturdier.

Comfort – Most people own a sofa for at least five years. Comfort is essential when you are choosing an item that is used every day for several years. You might also want to check the weight of the seat cushion; a heavier seat cushion usually means a higher-quality product.

Board Thickness – What is the board thickness on the bottom side of the sofa? Anything less than 1 ¼” in thickness may cause the sofa to squeak.

Fabric – What are your fabric choices? If you have children or pets and the sofa is in a room that is used on a daily basis, fabric selection is important. Look for fabrics with a high “double rub” count. A fabric with 15,000 double rubs is a good one to look for. The greater the double rubs, the better the wear. This information is usually found on the back of a fabric sample. Microfiber is a popular choice these days due to its stain resistance, durability and soft suede-like feel.

Tailoring – How is the tailoring? Check to see that seams are even and that the fabric pattern matches. A higher-priced sofa will have matched fabric not only on the sides and front, but in the back as well. Look for nail heads and trim that line up correctly and appear symmetrical.

Warranty – What are the manufacturer’s and retailer’s warranties? The frame is usually covered; but a higher-quality sofa will have warranties that cover cushions and spring systems. Be sure to read the fine print on all warranties. Check the time frame for coverage and beware of wording such as “only to the original address.” If you were to move, your warranty would be negated. Many retailers offer additional coverage for a fee. Read the fine print knowing what is and is not covered and what the process is regarding repairs.

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