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Buying long lasting furniture can be an investment. If you know what you are doing.  

Buy for the future 

It’s obvious that many pieces of furniture can withstand the test of time. Otherwise, there would be no such thing as an antique shop… 

Price Isn’t The Only Indicator Of Lasting Furniture

While it’s easy to think that a more expensive piece of furniture will obviously be better, that’s not always the case. Just like with other big-ticket items like household appliances and even cars, the first step should be to check the credentials of what you are buying.  

Yes. A Mercedes is expensive, but you know what, they’ve been making cars non-stop since 1886. Clearly, they are doing something right.  

With furniture it’s not always that easy…very few furniture sellers still make their own pieces, with most items being imported. 

The Weight of Lasting Furniture

As a rule of thumb, heavier (usually) means better. A “wooden” dining room chair that you can easily lift with one hand, is probably not made from high-quality solid wood. Softer, less dense woods are prone to denting when knocked against something and the joinery tends to tear out or come undone.  

The same goes for an upholstered chair or sofa. If you can shift the chair easily, the internal structure might simply be made from lightweight plastic or pressed wood.  

Look for solid, durable frames when buying lasting furniture. They will last longer, and should they somehow break, a solid piece of wood can be mended, whereas repairing torn or disintegrating plywood is nearly impossible.  

When it comes to upholstered cushions – Pick them up! Lightweight stuffing usually indicates a less dense foam type used. This means that the cushions will probably hollow out and lose all support quickly. Thick, heavy, high-density foam is the best option for upholstered lasting furniture.  

The Look of Lasting Furniture 

Even if you know you could never afford it, take a walk through a high-end furniture retailer and familiarize yourself with the appearance of truly good, lasting furniture. Look at joints, stitching, and finishes. Inspect the backs and undersides of sofas and tables. Use what you see here to choose the very best furniture that you can. You’ll thank us 5 years from now when your sofa is still comfortable!