Furniture is a staple in every home, but you shouldn't just buy it anywhere. Whether you're thrifting or investing in something new, you should understand what makes furniture durable and high quality. There's nothing worse than spending big money on cheap furniture, only to dish out more to replace it soon after. Dive into furniture buying 101 and learn how to identify high-quality furniture.
Perform an Initial Strength Test
The main characteristics of high-quality furniture are strength and durability; therefore, those are the first things you should check for before making a purchase. Apply pressure to tables, bookshelves, and entertainment centers to determine whether they feel sturdy.
Furthermore, you should check to see if pieces are level or bow with pressure; listen for creaks and cracks to determine whether or not the piece of furniture will hold up for several years. If it feels sturdy and level, you can move on to checking other quality factors.
Look at the Overall Construction
The overall construction of a piece is a good indicator of its quality. In fact, furniture with dovetail or mortise and tenon joints is thought to be higher quality than pieces held together with nails, staples, or glue. You should also check that the drawers or cabinets are functional and easy to use; if not, you should probably look for something else.
Consider the Weight
Weight is usually a good indicator of quality construction and material choice, and heaviness is a good thing when it comes to furniture. For example, a solid wood table will always weigh more than cheaper options made with particle board; also, down cushions are heavier than foam cushions. Solid materials are almost always more expensive, but they last much longer than their cheaper counterparts.
Check the Tag
When you're looking at sofas or other linen furniture, you should always check the tag. The price tag is important, but the informational tag can provide more details about the furniture's brand, materials, age, and origin. Don't be ashamed to do whatever it takes to get your eyes on this tag before deciding on modern home furnishings for your humble abode!
Once you understand furniture buying 101, you should be able to identify high-quality furniture withease. Price isn't the only consideration when it comes to purchasing furniture; quality costs more, but it also lasts longer.