When we buy furniture like chairs and beds, we wish to hold on to them forever. However, the furniture eventually wears down because of everyday use and exposure to elements like heat, moisture, and dust. When this happens, the ideal option is to try and restore the furniture through re-covering or reupholstering. But how do these two processes differ? Understanding each method is key in deciding which is right for you.
Re-covering Furniture
Re-covering furniture mainly involves replacing the fabric while leaving the internal structure untouched. That means the person doing the work won’t touch the frame, padding, and springs. Re-covering is a more surface-level update compared to reupholstery and, as a result, is often less expensive and less time-consuming.
Some of the things you should know about re-covering furniture include the following.
- An option for minor wear: Re-covering is ideal when the fabric has faded, stained, or gone out of style, but the inner components are still in good condition. Re-covering can be a practical option if your furniture shows no signs of sagging or structural damage.
- Fabric replacement only: The primary focus is swapping the old fabric with new material. This method is perfect for furniture that just needs a cosmetic refresh, such as changing the color or pattern to match the new decor.
- A quick process: Since re-covering doesn’t involve replacing or repairing internal parts, it’s a quicker and more straightforward process. Most service providers will complete re-covering projects faster than full reupholstery jobs.
- Cost-effective: Because it only involves replacing the fabric, re-covering tends to be more affordable than reupholstery. However, the cost can still vary depending on the type of fabric you choose, the size of the piece, and the project’s complexity.
- Limited structural improvement: Re-covering doesn’t fix any internal wear or damage.
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It’s important to note that re-covering won’t fix deeper issues such as creaky springs or damaged frames. If the structure of the furniture is compromised, re-covering would be like putting a band-aid on a larger problem. Re-covering may be an option if:
- The furniture is in good structural condition
- You’re happy with the current level of comfort and support
- You’re on a tighter budget and looking for a quick update
- You want to match the furniture with a new color scheme or design trend
Reupholstering Furniture
Reupholstering furniture is a more comprehensive process than re-covering. It involves a complete furniture overhaul, including the internal and external components. Some of the things to expect in furniture re-covering include the following:
- Complete restoration: Reupholstery goes beyond simply replacing the fabric. It involves stripping the furniture down to its frame, assessing the condition of internal parts like springs, padding, and support systems, and replacing or repairing them as needed. This makes the furniture structurally sound and comfortable, returning it to its original condition.
- Customization and repairs: One of the benefits of furniture reupholstery is getting a chance to customize the furniture. During reupholstery, experts can modify and repair the furniture to improve or change the original design. They can also refinish the frame, retie or replace the springs, and repair any damages to the wood or metal component. This allows for customization, such as altering the furniture’s height, firmness, or shape to suit your needs better.
- Enhanced longevity: Since reupholstery addresses the entire structure, it significantly extends the furniture’s lifespan. This is particularly beneficial for high-quality or antique pieces that are worth preserving. After reupholstery, the furniture will function like new, often lasting for many more years.
- Protection against future damage: Reupholstery can include treatments such as mold mitigation and refinishing to protect the furniture from environmental factors like humidity or pests. This will make furniture more resistant to damage in the future, especially in regions with fluctuating climates.
- High-quality detailing: In reupholstery, we pay attention to detail, ensuring that seams, edges, and finishes are clean and well-defined. This precision results in a polished look with no bulges, uneven surfaces, or hollow spots.
- Cost and value: Reupholstery tends to be more expensive than re-covering, as it involves more labor and materials. However, the investment is worthwhile for furniture that has sentimental value, is of high quality, or is an antique.
Reupholstery is the best choice if:
- The furniture has sentimental or antique value, and you want to preserve it
- The frame, springs, or padding are damaged or worn out
- You’re looking for a long-term investment in your furniture
- The furniture is a high-quality piece that’s worth restoring
The Difference in Results
The difference in comfort between re-covering and reupholstery is a crucial factor. While re-covering improves the visual appeal, it leaves the furniture’s comfort level unchanged. Re-covering won’t fix those issues if the cushions are sagging or the springs are creaking. The furniture will look better but feel exactly as it did before.
In terms of durability, re-covering doesn’t address any underlying structural issues. While the new fabric may last for some time, any existing wear in the frame or springs will worsen over time. Reupholstery is a much more durable solution. After reupholstery, the piece is often just as sturdy and long-lasting as it was when it was first built. For high-quality or antique furniture, reupholstery can add years, even decades, to its lifespan. This makes it a worthwhile investment if you’re looking for a long-term solution rather than a quick refresh.
Whether to re-cover or reupholster a piece of furniture depends on the item’s current condition, your budget, and your long-term goals. Re-covering offers a quick and affordable refresh, while reupholstery is a comprehensive overhaul that restores the furniture to like-new condition. Both processes help reduce waste and preserve treasured items, but it’s essential to make an informed decision based on the specific needs of your furniture. If you’re unsure what your furniture needs, contact CLS Custom Upholsterers & Refinishing. We will gladly look at the furniture and suggest the proper measures.
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