If you want to update your living space without breaking the bank, consider reupholstering. Refreshing your upholstery is an affordable and effective way of breathing new life into old or outdated furniture or extending the lifespan of a treasured piece.
But knowing whether to reupholster furniture, or replace it can be tricky – that’s where Upholstery Specialists come in. Our in-house team can provide expert advice on whether your item deserves a new lease on life or is better off replaced. If it’s beyond repair, we can work with you to create a new custom piece to take its place. Either way, we’ve got you covered.
Read on to find out if reupholstering is right for your furniture, or if it’s time to welcome a new addition to your home.
Reupholstering vs replacing: What to consider
Before you decide whether to repair or replace your furniture, you’ll need to weigh up several factors. These will include your budget, any wear-and-tear, the sentimentality of the piece, and your end goal.
The cost to yourself and the environment
Generally speaking, repairs are more cost-effective, particularly for minor issues that are easily rectified. Buying a new piece is often more expensive and involves a larger upfront cost, which budget-conscious customers should consider.
Replacing furniture also comes at a cost to the environment. If you’re unable to sell or donate the item, it will likely end up in the landfill. This means you are contributing to the ever-growing collection of non-biodegradable waste, depending on its materials. Leather, for example, can take anywhere from 10 to 50 years to decompose in a typical landfill. The decision to reupholster furniture is more sustainable and environmentally friendly, so think about whether you want to extend the life of the item rather than end it.
In the long run, reupholstering or repairing furniture may also increase its value. This means that if or when you do choose to replace the item, it’s more likely you will be able to find it a new home. This not only keeps the product in circulation (and may even make you a profit!), but it also allows someone new to appreciate its craftsmanship.
A new lease on life, or a new look?
You’ll need to assess the reason for reupholstery or replacement. If the item is severely damaged and will require significant repairs, replacing it might be the more affordable option. Complex reupholstery can be expensive, so it’s up to you whether the item is worth it.
This also applies to an item that’s outdated: do you want a simple refresh, or a total transformation? Your goals will determine the price, so if a trendy new look is what you’re after, a budget-friendly replacement may be the better choice.
If the furniture is sentimental, such as an heirloom or a rare, vintage piece, reupholstering is often the best solution. It will maintain your beloved item, preserve the craftsmanship, and keep it in your home for years to come. If the item is not particularly treasured, replacing it may be a better choice, depending on your budget and lifestyle.
Why reupholstering furniture is important
Reupholstering is a valuable skill and an art form. Choosing to reupholster furniture isn’t simply about reducing waste or saving your hard-earned money. Every day, the furniture in our home is a setting for new stories or a reminder of snapshots from the past.
Whether it be a beloved ottoman passed down for generations or a coffee stain left behind by a special visitor, furniture can evoke powerful emotions, and that’s worth celebrating. Like a tangible memory bank, furniture forms a foundation for stories past and present. A well-loved sofa is the centrepiece of Sundays spent with your family; a headboard is the backdrop to long nights laughing with your significant other. That’s why what we do is so important: we’re not only preserving your furniture, but keeping your memories alive.
If your furniture has seen better days, we advise always looking into reupholstery before replacement. Our specialist upholstery repairers can restore your furniture to its former glory, all while keeping its legacy intact.
The Upholstery Specialists approach
We’re called the Upholstery Specialists for a reason. When it comes to reupholstery and furniture repair services, our experts have your best interests at heart. Our reliable team will advise you on the best approach for the best-looking result, all at a cost-effective price.
Whether you’re looking for restoration or a total revamp, we’ll revive your furniture with our extensive range of fabrics and leathers. We stock a great range of materials, and with a wide established supply network, we’re guaranteed to be able to find the perfect fabric for your furniture.
Please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly and knowledgeable team with your upholstery requests. We’re confident we can bring your vision to life.
Talk to a specialist today
If you’re interested in reupholstering your favourite furniture, creating your own custom piece, or need advice on whether to repair or replace, get in touch with Upholstery Specialists today.
