There are many sitcom episodes that deal with having to say goodbye to a beloved recliner or an ugly sofa. The life expectancy of a piece of furniture will vary by the use it is given and the quality of the piece, not to mention the upkeep or repairs. Obviously, sofas and chairs in a family room will take more abuse and need a sooner replacement than those in a formal living room that is seldom used.
Several indicators tell you it is time to visit your Ottawa furniture store.
- Broken beyond repair
- Stains and worn areas
- Comfort
- Space in your current home
- Personal taste and preference
Sofa
If the lumbar support is shot and the cushions sag, it may be time to say farewell.
Chair
Ditto for a chair, especially if the upholstery is ripped or stained. If it has a recliner element and that does not work well, it's time for a new one.
Wooden chairs
These are usually around a table. Upholstery is easy to replace on these seats, but if the legs are wobbly or wood is splitting, it is time to shop.
Dining Room table
These will be structurally sound for quite a number of years. However, if it is severely scratched or dented, it may need replacement. Also, if your needs or the size of the room have changed, you probably need a new one.
Side and Coffee tables
Again, if they are not structurally sound or look too banged up, it is time for replacements.
Bed
Indicators are a creaky frame or children outgrowing the current size. Headboards will probably last longer than the frame.
Dressers
If the frame is damaged or the drawers don't work, it is time.
Mattress
If it becomes odoriferous or no longer supports your back, it should go away.
Desk
Many times, technology has determined that the desk is no longer applicable.
Office Chair
If you put in 40 hours a week, it won't last more than seven or ten years.
Patio furniture
If it is unstable or won't support body weight from rust or abuse, you should go shopping.
What to do with the discarded furnishings?
- Haul it away or contact your trash/recycling company
- Donate it to a charity. Some will send someone to pick it up, but you will probably need to get it to the driveway.
- Sell. Using clear photos and honesty, post them online.
- Family. Someone just out of college and starting a career, including a new apartment, may be happy to take it off your hands.