(low-end fabric without embellishments)
(high-end fabric, frame repair, cushion padding)
Cost to reupholster a couch varies greatly by region (and even by zip code).
Get free estimates from upholstery and sewing specialists in your city.
The average cost of reupholstering a couch is around $1,500.
Couches are found in almost every living room, but after years of wear and tear, they inevitably become worn and outdated. Not only do they look old-fashioned but they also become uncomfortable, losing their cushiony feel. Instead of buying a new couch, which can cost an astronomical amount, you can reupholster it.
The average price to reupholster a standard size couch (6-8 feet long) with three cushions ranges from $850 to $1,500.
Consumers spend billions on new furniture every year. What happens when they buy something new? Old pieces tend to end up in landfills. There are many reasons to consider reupholstering a couch instead of buying a new one.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Cheaper than buying new Changes the appearance of your couch Extends the life of the couch Renew the life of a family heirloom or antique Restuff it and make it more comfortable Helps reduce the amount of waste that go to landfills | You may have to live without a couch for a few weeks Low-quality fabrics can wear out faster than the first time Re-stuffing to return it to its former comfort could add to the price |
There are different types of fabric to choose between for your new look, either natural or synthetic. Cotton, a natural fabric, and polyester, a synthetic fabric, are the most common types of fabric used. Cotton comes from plant fibers of the cotton plant that grows naturally, while polyester is man-made from products like petroleum, coal, and water. Prices vary widely for natural and synthetic fabrics and it is all personal preference.
Natural fabrics are either plant or animal-based materials. Each one has very different characteristics and price:
Type | Characteristics | Cost |
---|---|---|
Cotton | Comfortable Durable Easily cleaned | $10-$50 per yard |
Linen blend | Blended with cotton for softer texture Less wrinkles | $18-$25 per yard |
Linen | Strong Absorbent Dries fast | $23-$35 per yard |
Leather | Durable Flexible Made from animal hides | $40 per yard |
Silk | Smooth Soft texture | $70 per yard |
Synthetic fabrics are man-made from chemicals. The table below might help you decide which one suits your needs best:
Type | Characteristics | Price |
---|---|---|
Nylon | An alternative to silk that is more durable Resistant to tearing | $5 per yard |
Polyester | Durable Resistant to stretching and wrinkling Quick drying | $20-$50 per a yard |
Olefin | Great for outdoor use Water and stain resistant | $22 per yard |
Cotton Blend | Blending with polyester for more strength | $30-$55 per yard |
Rayon | Strong like cotton Slippery and feels like silk | $40-$90 per yard |
Acrylic | Lightweight Warm Feels like wool | $50-$80 per yard |
Vinyl 1 | Plastic material Durable Easily cleaned | $50 per yard |
When reupholstering your couch you should factor in labor costs. Reupholstering a couch doesn’t have to be scary or time-consuming. In fact, picking new fabrics and other materials, and deciding on the final design is part of the fun for many people.
The upholsterer will remove and dispose of old fabric. Before adding new padding, cushioning, and fabric they will repair any damage to the frame. While you can try to do it yourself, having a professional do the work means you will get a great quality refurbished piece of furniture. A professional has all the tools and equipment to handle and fix any issues that arise. Professional labor prices for a couch on average cost $100 per hour and take between 4 and 9 hours of labor. The total labor cost can be anywhere from $400-$900, depending on the location of the upholsterer and any details added into the couch. Service can take a couple of weeks to complete depending on the professional.
Once you receive your newly reupholstered couch you will want to perform regular maintenance on it. Keep your fabrics looking new by completing the following:
It is hard to determine if reupholstering or replacing your couch is the right option. Buying a new couch can often cost thousands of dollars, while paying for reupholstering can take more time and mean you go without a couch for a while.
Considerations for reupholstering your couch should include the quality of the frame and the type of material used for padding. If your couch is sturdy or has sentimental value, reupholstering it is a great option. If, on the other hand, it isn't standing up to the test of time, the frame is too broken to fix, or you don't have the time to wait, reupholstering might not be the best option.
You may need to refill and replace the padding under the fabric, which will add to the cost and labor. Extra filling averages around $25.00. New foam pads cost between $40-$75 per cushion.
The original couch frame could need to be repaired which will increase labor costs. Minor repairs are often needed once the old fabric is removed. However major repairs can add around $100 an hour for the additional labor time. Materials may cost more.
Adding decorative features and embellishments such as tufting or buttons will also increase the cost anywhere from $100 to $1,000, depending on details.
It costs anywhere between $850 and $3,500 to reupholster a sofa, depending on the size of the couch, materials used, embellishments and style, the location of service, labor costs, and other additional considerations.
Some pieces of furniture are more expensive than others. A sectional sofa, for example costs up to $3,500 compared to around $1,000 for a standard sofa.
Depending on how well you maintain your couch it should be replaced every 10 years. Well-maintained couches with regular cleaning can last up to 15 years, while in a home with pets and kids it’s only around 7.
Any stain resistant fabric like a cotton polyester blend is a good choice for a chair. However, there are many fabrics to choose from such as cotton, leather, or polyester.
Yes, if the couch frame is in good shape you can. And even if it is not, you can have it fixed and give new life to an old couch.
A standard 8-foot couch requires 18-20 yards of fabric.
Contact a professional to reupholster your couch with new fabrics and cushions. A professional has the tools and equipment necessary for the job and it will last longer than a slipcover.
Cost to reupholster a couch varies greatly by region (and even by zip code). To get free estimates from local contractors, please indicate yours.