Is reupholstery worth it, or should you purchase new furniture? It’s a common dilemma for both homeowners and businesses alike. When you’re faced with a worn-out sofa or a tired-looking chair, the decision isn’t always clear-cut. Should you give that old piece a new lease on life, or is it time to part ways and invest in something brand new? In this post, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of reupholstering versus buying new furniture, helping you make the best decision for your needs.
Giving New Life to Old Favorites
When your furniture starts to show its age, reupholstering can be a fantastic way to breathe new life into it. Here are some of the key reasons why you might choose to reupholster rather than replace:
1. Quality Matters
If your existing furniture has a high-quality frame, reupholstering is often worth considering. Older pieces, especially those made from sturdy hardwoods, are built to last and often surpass the quality of many modern, mass-produced items. A solid frame can outlive the fabric it’s wrapped in, making reupholstering a smart choice to extend the life of a well-made piece.
2. Sentimental Value
Furniture isn’t just about function—it’s often deeply personal. Maybe you have a sofa that’s been in the family for generations, or a chair that holds fond memories. Reupholstering allows you to preserve these cherished pieces, keeping the memories alive while giving them a fresh look.
3. Customization Options
One of the biggest advantages of reupholstering is the ability to customize. You’re in control of the design process, from choosing the fabric and color to selecting patterns that perfectly match your décor. This level of personalization is often not available when buying new furniture, where your choices might be limited to what’s in stock.
4. Sustainability
In today’s environmentally conscious world, sustainability is a significant factor. Reupholstering is a form of recycling—it keeps furniture out of landfills and reduces the demand for new resources. By choosing to reupholster, you’re making an eco-friendly decision that benefits the planet.
The Drawbacks of Reupholstering
Of course, reupholstering isn’t without its downsides. Here are some factors that might make you lean towards buying new:
1. Time-Consuming Process
Reupholstering isn’t a quick fix. Depending on the complexity of the project and the upholsterer’s workload, it can take several weeks—or even months—to complete. During this time, you might have to go without the furniture, which can be inconvenient, especially for frequently used items.
However, certain upholstery shops, including ours, provide rental loaner furniture while your pieces are being restored. Achieving quality results in furniture restoration takes time and cannot be rushed.
2. Risk of Poor Craftsmanship
Not all upholsterers are created equal. If you choose an inexperienced or less skilled professional, the results could be disappointing. Poor craftsmanship can lead to uncomfortable seating, uneven fabric, or a look that’s less appealing than you envisioned.
For optimal results, ask about the experience and tenure of the staff at the upholstery shop before requesting a bid. Upholstery is a craft that depends greatly on practical expertise and the passing down of knowledge over time. This is why some shops, like ours, implement a shadowing training program and have employees who have been with us for over 30 years.
Starting Fresh
Sometimes, buying new furniture is the better option. Here’s why:
1. Immediate Availability
Once you’ve made your decision, you won’t have to wait long—new furniture can be delivered and set up within days or weeks.
2. Warranty
Most new furniture comes with a manufacturer’s warranty, giving you peace of mind in case of defects or damage.
3. Ease of Purchase
Buying new furniture is often more convenient than reupholstering. You simply browse through a catalog or visit a store, make your selection, and arrange for delivery. This ease and speed can be particularly appealing if you’re looking to furnish a space quickly.
4. Change and Style Update
Sometimes, it’s not just about the furniture’s condition—it’s about wanting a change. Buying new allows you to completely refresh your space, adopting a new style or color scheme that might not be achievable with your current furniture.
The Drawbacks of Buying New
While new furniture offers many advantages, it’s not always the best choice:
1. Higher Costs for Quality
Quality new furniture doesn’t come cheap. While there are budget options available, they often lack the durability and longevity of more expensive, well-crafted pieces. Over time, frequently replacing lower-quality items can become more costly than investing in reupholstering a high-quality piece.
2. Environmental Impact
Buying new furniture, especially mass-produced items, contributes to environmental degradation. The manufacturing, shipping, and eventual disposal of new pieces all have significant ecological impacts. If sustainability is important to you, reupholstering might be the greener option.
3. Breaking In Period
New furniture can take time to break in. The cushions might feel too firm, and it might take a while before it becomes as comfortable as the old piece you’re replacing. In contrast, reupholstered furniture retains its familiar comfort, with a fresh exterior.
The Cost of Reupholstering vs. Buying New
When it comes to cost, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Reupholstering can range anywhere from $600 to $4,000 for a sofa, depending on factors like fabric choice, labor, and any necessary structural repairs. According to Angi, the national average cost for reupholstering furniture is around $1,750. In contrast, buying a new sofa can range from $500 for a budget model to over $10,000 for high-end designs.
Here’s a breakdown of typical reupholstering costs:
- Fabric: $200 to $4,000, depending on the type and amount needed.
- Labor: $500 to $2,000, varying by complexity and location.
- Additional Costs: Structural repairs, cushion replacement, and any upgrades can add $100 to $800 more.
For buying new:
- Sofa Prices: $500 to $10,000+, depending on quality and brand.
- Delivery & Assembly: $100 to $350 combined.
- Warranties: $50 to $300, depending on the coverage.
The Value of Keeping the Perfect Piece
When considering the cost of reupholstering versus buying new furniture, there’s an important exception to keep in mind. If you have a piece of furniture that perfectly fits your space and you love its style, reupholstering might be worth the investment, regardless of the price. Finding a piece that suits your room and your taste can be challenging, especially in uniquely shaped or smaller spaces. Once you’ve found that ideal furniture, it can be more cost-effective—and satisfying—to keep it through reupholstery rather than starting the search for something new.
Tips for Successful Reupholstery
When planning a reupholstery project, it’s crucial to consider all aspects of the furniture, especially the cushions. Over time, cushions can become saggy and worn, diminishing the comfort and appearance of your furniture. If your cushions are in poor condition, it’s worth having your upholsterer quote the cost of replacing the foam. Investing in new foam can make a significant difference, as cushions are often the first part of furniture to show wear. Reupholstering with old, worn-out foam won’t give you the best results for your money.
Additionally, choosing the right fabric is key to ensuring the longevity of your reupholstered furniture. Consider how much use the piece will get. For example, a sofa in a busy living room will need a more durable fabric than an antique chair that is rarely used. Selecting a fabric that can withstand the expected wear and tear will help you get the most out of your reupholstery investment.
Final Thoughts: Reupholster or Buy New?
When it comes to deciding between reupholstering and buying new furniture, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It ultimately depends on the quality of your existing piece, your budget, and your personal preferences.
- Reupholstery is often the better choice if you have a well-made, high-quality frame, sentimental attachments, or a desire for customization and sustainability.
- Buying new might be the way to go if you’re looking for variety, convenience, and a fresh start.
Whether you’re a homeowner trying to keep a cherished heirloom alive or a business owner wanting to update your space, weigh the pros and cons carefully. Consider what matters most to you—quality, cost, time, or environmental impact—before making your decision. Ultimately, whether you choose to reupholster or buy new, make sure it aligns with your overall needs. Contact us if you have any questions.
