Furnishing your home is a huge investment.  Take your sofa for example: why is one sofa more than three times the cost of another that looks similar?  Is it really worth the difference in price?  How long will it last before you need another replacement?  If you have ever asked yourself these questions, now you have the answers.  We all enjoy updating our living rooms, but most of us want a sofa with a level of style and quality that will outlast several mini-makeovers through the years.  So if it’s true quality and longevity that you’re after, here is what to look for when you start shopping.

Image via: James Thomas, LLC

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Frame

The true test of quality in a sofa is its frame.  American-made, solid wood frames represent the pinnacle of durability, especially with reinforced joints.  Ask if the base is eight-way-hand-tied, a traditional method used in furniture for over 150 years.  An eight-way system means that individual springs are tied together from eight different directions with tough fibers and supported below by industrial-strength polypropylene strips.  This base is the strongest in the industry, and creates a frame that simply won’t give out.  To finish, look for high-density foam cushions, which may feel a little firm but have the longest life over the years.  A frame like this will easily last over ten years with proper care.

Image via Pearson Furniture

Upholstery

Even the strongest frame will look tired quickly if the cover begins to show wear.  Polyester and other synthetic materials hold up well and come in a broad range of textures to suit every taste and budget.  Upholstery is also where style comes into play.  If you plan to purchase a sofa that will last over ten years, I always recommend choosing a neutral base color.

Image via: Joie Wilson

A neutral fabric, no matter the texture, will look timeless and is easy to update.  Save that bright color, wild pattern, or expensive silk for pillows that you can change with the season or your mood.  It’s also much easier on the budget to swap out pillows than to buy a new sofa!

Image via Caitlin Wilson

Now that you know a little about what goes into a great sofa, you’re ready to bring home a gorgeous sofa that you’ll love for years to come.

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