Choosing the Right Re-Upholstery Service

Upholstery changes the feel and looks of the living space. Re-upholstering flea market gems or family heirlooms

 preserves and breathes new life into old furniture. Quality upholstery services are considered a long-term investment

 and can be expensive. The Better Business Bureau has some tips for choosing a quality upholstery service. 

Is the Piece Worth Re-Upholstering? 

A lot of the furniture manufactured today is not worth reupholstering. It is cheaper to buy a new piece. The best items are furniture that is unique and cannot be replaced, heirlooms, and pieces with sentimental value. Furniture in good shape that is 15+ years old made with coils, springs, and real wood are typical pieces worth re-upholstering. 

Ask Family and Friends for Referrals 

An excellent resource is a workmate, neighbor, family member, or friend who had a positive experience with an upholstery service. Make a list of recommendations, then visit the workshops to see samples of their work. Upholsterers who work on antique frames and various pieces are trusted for a reason. 

Get an Estimated Price and Turnaround Time 

A professional upholsterer will provide a concrete estimate after looking at the piece of furniture. Some offer estimates based on photos, but that estimate may change when the furniture is in their hands. Let the upholstery service know your budget upfront and ask how long the job will take. If a piece needs to be restored or refinished, it may take longer. 

Ask the Upholsterer for Design Help 

Most upholsterers like to be part of the creative process. Even if you have a fabric in mind, be open to suggestions from the upholsterer. They may have some insight into the material that best suits the furniture and living space. Show the upholsterer pictures of what you have in mind and tell them how you will use the piece. Armed with that information, an upholsterer can offer con expert suggestions.  

Choosing the Fabric 

Lighter, delicate fabric is suitable for furniture that is more for show than use. Robust materials are required for refurbishing furniture kids, and pets use for lounging and eating snacks. Darker patterns and shades are a functional and durable choice for furniture that gets a lot of use. Heavier weight fabric withstands wear and tear and allows for getting the most from a re-upholstery job. 

Additional Costs 

Some costs, such as picking up furniture and delivering it, cushion replacements, and adding a skirt, come as no surprise. Ask about any additional charges. The need for services to fix joints or treat woodworms may not be identified until the piece is stripped to the frame. Prepare for such findings in your budget.  

Quality of Work 

Ask about the method an upholsterer uses. Furniture needs to be stripped to the frame to see if structural repairs are required. Sometimes springs and webbing need to be adjusted. Correctly resetting and tying the webbing and springs can be a process that takes four to six hours. Cheap shops may try adding a new upholstery fabric layer on top of the existing one without inspecting the entire furniture piece.  

The above topics give you information to discuss with a potential re-upholstery service. Because having furniture reupholstered is an investment, you want a knowledgeable company to do the job. If you feel uncomfortable about any of their answers, choose another service.