We all visit furniture shops to explore various types of furniture, often captivated by the shine and design on display. Impressed by the appearance, we may quickly decide to make a purchase. But is that all that matters when it comes to quality furniture? Absolutely not!
After completing the purchase and bringing the furniture home, we’re excited to show it off to guests. However, here’s the twist: within a month or so, cracks appear, the polish begins to fade, and other issues start to surface.
Here are some tips and tricks from the New Light Furniture Shop in Jubail to help you avoid falling into seller’s traps and evaluate furniture quality yourself before making a purchase. Here you go!
Researching Materials and Construction
First comes first! The materials used and the way furniture is built are important to its quality and lifespan. When you’re shopping for good quality furniture, focus on pieces made from strong, durable materials. Solid wood is always a good choice. Hardwoods like oak and maple are especially strong and can resist damage over time.
It’s best to avoid furniture made from cheaper materials like particleboard or MDF. These materials may seem affordable, but they tend to warp, break, or wear out quickly. Pay attention to how the furniture is constructed, too. High-quality furniture will have strong joints, like dovetail or mortise-and-tenon joints. These joints show that the furniture is well-made and built to last.
Be careful of furniture that’s held together with just staples or glue. These methods are less trusted and may fall apart easily over time. Always choose furniture with solid construction for better durability.
Examine Quality Indicators and Certifications
When buying good furniture, it’s important to check for signs of quality and any certifications the product might have. These details can help you understand if the furniture is well-made and uses good materials. Look for certifications like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which shows that the wood used comes from sustainable sources. Another good one is Greenguard, which means the furniture has low emissions and is safer for indoor use.
These certifications ensure that the furniture follows certain environmental and safety rules. Besides certifications, pay attention to how the furniture is built. Look at the type of joints, the finish on the wood, and the hardware like screws or handles. Furniture that has sturdy construction and good-quality parts will last longer and be more trustable.
By checking these quality indicators and certifications, you can feel confident that you are buying furniture that meets high standards and is worth the investment.
Inspect the Finish and Detailing
A good quality finish is smooth and consistent across the entire piece of furniture. Whether it’s a polished, painted, or varnished surface, there shouldn’t be any bubbles, drips, or uneven patches. Look closely at the edges and corners of the furniture. These areas can reveal the attention to detail in the craftsmanship. A poor-quality finish may wear off or chip easily over time.
Here are some common types of finishes for wood:
- Lacquer: A strong, durable finish that protects wood from moisture and scratches.
- Polyurethane: Great for shielding wood from water and heat, making it perfect for things like dining tables and kitchen cabinets.
- Oil: Soaks into the wood, bringing out its natural beauty. It gives a warm look but needs regular upkeep.
- Wax: Adds a soft shine and provides protection. It’s best used as a top layer over other finishes.
Weight and stability matters
High-quality wooden furniture is usually heavier and more stable due to its solid construction and the density of the materials used. The weight of a piece can often be a good indicator of its quality. Heavier furniture tends to be made from durable materials like solid wood or metal, rather than lightweight materials like particleboard or plastic.
For example, a dining chair made of hardwood might weigh between 15 to 25 kg, while a large hardwood dining table could weigh up to 150 kg. Bed frames and dressers made from solid wood are also quite heavy, ranging from 50 to 120 kg. In general, heavier furniture made from solid wood is more durable and long-lasting than lighter pieces.
To assess the stability, give the furniture a gentle shake. Well-made furniture should feel sturdy and secure, without any wobbling, creaking, or signs of instability. A solid, heavy piece is less likely to wear down or break over time, offering better longevity and reliability. While lighter furniture might be easier to move, it usually doesn’t offer the same level of durability as heavier, well-constructed pieces. Always opt for furniture that feels substantial and built to last.
Look for Warranty and Return Policies
A strong warranty or return policy is a good sign of a manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Before you purchase, check the terms of the warranty. Does it cover the frame, upholstery, or construction issues? How long is the coverage period? A reputable furniture company should offer some form of guarantee to protect your investment.
So here are some handy tips to make your furniture purchase smooth and easy. Have fun picking out your favourites!
