These couch buying tips focus on the different types of sofas and couches being sold today. This will help you make a more intelligent purchase. Before you buy, figure out what couch you need.
Regular Couches and Loveseats
The average sofa is 6 to 8 long. It can fit up to three people easily. This is the type of sofa used in most living rooms. If you decide on this sofa, make sure the living room area has room for you to walk around.
The loveseat is usually 5 to 6 ft long and is designed for two people. A good couch buying tip for people with limited space is to buy this couch. It won’t take up much room and is perfect for apartments and small rooms.
Sectional Sofas
Sectional sofas are 9 to 14 feet long. These are for large living rooms and can fit several people at once. This is also the couch to buy for a good sized family room. Another advantage is they can be separated and used in different places around the house.
Sofa Beds and Futons
The sofa bed is a good choice for those who like using the couch as a bed. Once unfolded, the sofa bed can fit two adults. Futons are similar to sofa beds but have more options regarding the reclining.
Buying Singly or in Sets
Here is another couch buying tip: most shops allow you to buy the sofa singly or as a set. The set composition varies, but most have a loveseat and a chair or two more seats. In terms of cost, it’s usually cheaper to buy the set than buy the couch and other seats separately.
The Couch Frames
Make sure the frame is sturdy as the sofa will be used regularly. This will be even more important if there are kids in the house. For extra strength, look for frames made of maple or oak. Other frame materials used are metal and kiln dried hardwood. For something cheaper, buy frames made of spruce or pine. Rattan is used for more stylish couches.
Couch Springs
No collection of couch buying tips is complete without discussing springs as this determines how comfortable it will be. Comfortable couches are those that have 8-way hand-tied coils. Some manufacturers use coils that are pre-assembled. Others are made of sinuous wire nailed to the couch frame. As a rule, hand-tied coils are the most durable.
Couch Upholstery Fabrics
The most durable fabrics are those tightly woven. If kids or pets are going to bounce around the couch, microfiber material is recommended. They are tough and easy to clean. Leather is also durable although it is more expensive. An alternative to this is leather-match, made of leather and vinyl.
Couch Styles
This is a matter of personal taste and preference. Before you buy, think of your living room style and how well the couch will match up with it.
What these couch buying tips suggest is for you to conduct some research first. By understanding what kind of couch you need, you’ll know which of the types available will best meet these requirements.