Is My Furniture Worth Restoring?

Small repairs such as broken springs, leather damage, chips and scratches in wood are always cost effective and are necessary to maintain the quality of furniture. However when it is time for full restoration e.g. re-upholstery, or a strip and re-polish; people are starting to ask "why should I get my furniture restored when I can buy new so cheap?" The answer is quality. The reason why an item of furniture is so cheap to buy is that it was so cheap to make.

If you have a good item of furniture, it is much more cost effective to have it restored, rather than chucking out and buying a low grade replacement.

Upholstery
if you are thinking about having your arm chair or sofa re-upholstered, the condition of the frame is the most important issue. The current fabric and inners can be replaced to look as new.

How do I check the quality of the frame? The easiest way is to feel the weight; in theory, the heavier the sofa, the more likely it is made from solid hard woods rather than chipboard and cardboard.

A more accurate way is to look inside. We do not advise this unless you have appropriate tools and are physically able. You will need to turn the sofa upside down (need another person) remove some of the staples and peer inside. If you can see solid wood spring rails held by dowels,screws and bolts then the frame is of good quality, however, if all you can see is chipboard, held by glue and staples, the quality is not so good.

Dining chairs
a quality dining chair is usually made from solid hard wood or a strong pine wood. It has cross bracing to give extra support to the legs and uses solid joinery such as mortise and tendon joints or dowels.

Tables and Cabinetry
if you are thinking of having your table or cabinet restored, the quality is distinguished by the method of construction and the materials used. The state of the finish is not important as this will be removed along with scratches and chips.
Solid hard woods such as oak and elm are becoming rare and definitely worth restoring, also quality veneers such as mahogany, teak and yew. When looking at joints, look for traditional joinery combined with dowels, bolts and screws rather that nails and staples.

Antiques
Genuine antiques are always worth restoring. If you are unsure of the quality or legitimacy of your antique furniture, you should contact us for advice.