Though many consumers purchase a sofa based on how it looks and feels, what’s under that cover may be as important as, if not more important than, how it looks. Inner support systems are almost as varied as cover choices, and they play a big role in how long a piece will last.
Cushions
The part that usually gets the most attention is the cushions. Attached or detached, soft or firm, cushions are what determine the comfort level of the furniture.
Back cushions that take on a pillow look are most often stuffed with a poly fill that is shapeable and soft. Shaped cushions, whether they be back cushions or seat cushions, are created by taking a foam core and wrapping it with a Dacron batting or adding down stuffing to make the cushions softer.
The firmness of the cushions is usually determined by the density of the core itself, how thick it is, and how much additional padding is included. High density cores, though they can feel firmer, often last longer.
Sofa Support System
Beneath the cushions lies the support system. Traditionally, the support system consisted of a series of springs laid out in a wooden frame. These springs were tied to the frame to determine the amount of give and ensure the springs stayed in place.
The term “eight-way hand-tied” refers to a method of attaching the springs to the frame. This method is a highly specialized technique that has diminished in use in recent years, though some manufacturers, such as Clayton Marcus, still make use of this method. A more cost-effective method of attaching springs is machine-tying them to the frame.
In either method, the springs lie under the cushions, allowing the furniture to give while at the same time pushing back to provide support. The thickness of the springs and the spacing between them determine how long a support system will last. Thicker springs are less likely to break with frequent use, and a higher quantity of springs allows for more even distribution of weight.
Two more modern methods of support have appeared to compete with traditional springs. These support systems don’t require the depth that springs do, allowing for a sleeker design in contemporary furniture.
Sinuous springs are one option. Unlike their coil counterparts, sinuous springs lie flat, gaining their strength from the “S” shaped curve of the metal. Thickness of the metal, and how far apart the curves are, will determine how strong and durable the springs remain.
With seat webbing, a series of straps is woven together and attached to the frame. These straps are made from synthetic materials, such as polyester and nylon. While critics express concerns that the straps may break or become detached from the frame, the straps are made of strong materials, designed to maintain their shape and strength, and manufacturers take into consideration the need for secure attachment.
Frames
Frames for upholstered goods are usually constructed of hardwoods for strength and durability, though they may be comprised of solid wood or layered wood.
Solid wood maintains the strength of the original tree, making it difficult to break while offering a slight flexibility. The panel is, of course, solid, making it less likely to splinter or come apart.
Layered wood creates a thick panel by combining thin layers of wood and stacking them, often in a cross-grain pattern. This method prevents problems that may result from defects, such as knots, that may weaken a solid piece of wood.
Keeping the wood frame together can be glue, screws and/or staples. The combination of these will vary depending on the manufacturer, with the idea that having more than one provides added durability. Screws often provide the most long-lasting connection, but the time and effort it takes to use screws can add to the cost of a piece of furniture. As a result, many manufacturers have resorted to using heavy duty staples instead.
In addition, some manufacturers will add corner blocks to the frame for support. Corner blocks are small pieces of wood that are tucked into the corners where two side panels meet. Rather than having two wood panels attached to each other, the corner blocks add additional stability to the frame by making it a three-way support system to resist movement.
Choices
There is not necessarily a right way and a wrong way to make a piece of furniture. Rather, there are different techniques and options that have developed over time. Some have enhanced the quality of the furniture, while some are simply for aesthetics. Consumers must make the ultimate choice based on their individual needs and concerns.
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