Salvaging a sofa and reupholstering it is a more sustainable option for the environment, but reupholstering an old sofa could cost more than buying a new one. Consider a few things like your time, effort, cost, and the overall aesthetic you're going for.
Reupholstering it yourself is a budget-friendly option, but it is ultimately time-consuming. If you're ready for a new project, continue reading to determine if this task is in your best interests.
Reupholstering Costs
The cost to reupholster a couch varies based on its size and the fabric you select. Depending on the material, the fabric can cost anywhere between $12 to $200 or more a yard.
Remember that professionals might charge you more if the couch fabric you select is challenging to work with. Get quotes from two or three different upholsterers for all fabric and parts. On average, it can cost $2,000 to $4,000 to reupholster an 8-foot couch.
Is Reupholstering Worth It?
If the furniture is high-quality, one-of-a-kind, or sentimental, reupholstering is probably worth it. Essentially, it's worth it if you like the piece and you weigh the reupholstery cost against the price of a new sofa.
Some reupholstering tips, like researching DIY options and ordering a good-quality fabric that will last and not become outdated, can make this big task worthwhile.
Tip
If you go ahead with reupholstering, clean the upholstery frequently to maintain the refurbished look and make your hard work worthwhile.
Reupholstering vs. Recovering
There is a difference between "re-covering" and reupholstering your sofa. Recovering involves replacing the fabric and is more of a surface-level cosmetic fix. Reupholstering could involve replacing other parts of the couch.
Recovering works well when the sofa's structure and the foam that makes up the seats and frame are still in good shape. All you need is new fabric.
Reupholstering is the better choice when the entire sofa needs to be remade. A complete reupholstering job could include replacing padding and springs, mending the frame, restaining any wood, and replacing the fabric.
Professional Reupholstering vs. DIY
Reupholstery is not just an aesthetic upgrade; it's a refurbishment of the entire couch, structure, and all. The amount of time required for this DIY project varies depending on how much transformation you want.
If you're not confident in your ability to achieve a perfect finish or don't have time to commit to this DIY project, bringing in a professional might be worth it. Reupholstering is not easy—it involves skilled labor, material replacement, and a polished finish. Typically, expect to pay between $40 and $100 per hour for the labor. Keep in mind that this does not include parts or fabric.
What Types of Furniture Are Worth Reupholstering?
Some couches are better candidates for reupholstery than others. Reupholstery is a good way to upgrade and maintain your piece if the sofa is antique or well-constructed. Here are other qualities to look for to determine whether your couch is worth reupholstering.
- Good construction: If you have a high-quality couch made from solid wood or featuring intricate curves and lines, it's worth reupholstering. Signs of good construction: It doesn't rock during use, is not warped or cracked, and is made with eight-way hand-tied springs.
- Recognizable brand name: Some furniture brands are valued year after year. If you have one of these pieces, it could be worth reupholstering your sofa since you know you can trust its construction and would pay more for something like it.
- Valuable antique: If the couch dates back over a century and you've already invested money in it, reupholstering makes sense. In this case, it's safer to hire a qualified professional.
- Eco-conscious: Reupholstering your couch may be the most eco-conscious choice. While you're still utilizing new materials (like seat foam and fabric), you're also keeping a piece of furniture out of a landfill and giving it new life.
- Family heirloom: If the sofa has been in your family for a while and is a prized possession with history and sentimental value, it may be worth saving.
If your couch doesn't have any redeeming qualities, it might be time to dispose of it.
Alternatives to Reupholstering
If you are tired of the fabric you have but don't want to invest in a new piece of furniture, consider slipcovers. These days, couch covers can be made to order through sites like Etsy, and they're an easy way to upgrade the look of your couch without springing for a complete makeover.
If your sofa isn't in poor condition and you're bored, you could also consider switching up your pillows. Sometimes, a few new patterns and a cozy throw blanket are all you need for a completely refreshed feel.
FAQ
Can you reupholster yourself?
You can reupholster yourself, but it is a big job and time-consuming. It is sometimes more economical to reupholster yourself than to hire a professional, though you should consider the cost of your time and materials.
How much does it cost to reupholster a couch with fabric?
The cost to reupholster a couch depends on the fabric you select and how much of that fabric you need. Expect to pay anywhere from $12 a yard to $200 or more a yard.
Is it better to reupholster or buy new?
It is better to reupholster a high-quality couch, an antique, or a family heirloom. If the cost to reupholster is similar to or more than the cost of a new couch, buying a new one should be considered.
How many hours does it take to reupholster a couch?
Reupholstering a couch could take a professional between eight and 12 hours. However, it could take far longer for a first-time DIYer.
