Here are four frequently asked questions to help you determine if a custom-made sofa is right for you, and what makes them different from sofas that come just one-way.

Q: Are custom sofas more expensive vs. sofas that come just one-way?

A: For the most part, yes. That is if you only consider the cost on the day you purchase your sofa. If you also consider its performance over three years and the cost to fix or replace a one-way sofa, then a custom sofa has better value over time.

Sofas that come just one way are typically imported and mass-produced while custom sofas are made especially for you by expert craftspeople. Making custom sofas does require more labor and better materials, which will slightly increase the cost.

Q: What are the quality differences in custom sofas?

A: If you put a custom sofa next to a one-way sofa, you probably won’t be able to tell much of a difference. Even giving it a sit-test, the cushions might feel the same to you, which makes you question if you really should spend a few hundred dollars more. You see, the differences are all on the inside:

Frame construction: One-way sofas are held together with staples and glue. Custom sofas are built with interlocking corner blocks and hardwood reinforcements to create a strong, durable frame. The solid-frame of a custom sofa will still sit like new after multiple years, while a one-way sofa will fall apart.

Wood quality: One-way sofas are primarily made of particleboard, while custom sofas use frame-grade plywood and kiln-dried hardwood. The kiln-drying process removes all the moisture from the wood, which prevents the frame from cracking, resulting in a longer-lasting sofa.

LEFT: HARDWOOD, RIGHT: PARTICLEBOARD

Cushion core: Cushions on custom sofas contain denser foam than one-way sofas (1.8 vs. 1.3), which directly correlates to its quality and longevity. After one year of use, a one-way sofa will begin to flatten and lose its support and overall comfort.

Q: Does “custom” mean only 3-5 other fabric options?

A: Not at all! Custom sofa manufacturers typically offer 100s of body fabrics and 100s more pillow fabric options, so you'll have no problem creating the exact look you want.

PHOTO: JONATHAN LOUIS

Q: Does it take longer to get a custom sofa delivered?

A: Yes, custom sofas usually take a few additional weeks to be delivered because production can’t start until you choose all the details. But, since it’s your own original design, you never have to worry about a stock issue delaying your delivery like you might with a one-way sofa.

These are just a few of the benefits of a custom sofa! If you want to learn more, contact us or visit our showroom for more information from one of our design consultants.

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