Should You Mend Your Sofa or Buy a New One?

Posted by Mayang on May 6th, 2025

When your sofa starts showing wear—torn fabric, sagging cushions, or faded upholstery—you’re faced with a choice: fix it or replace it? In Singapore, where furniture is expensive and space is limited, this decision isn’t always clear-cut.

The quick answer: sofa repair is often cheaper than buying new. But it depends on the damage, the sofa’s quality, and the repair needed.

Let’s break it down.

When Is Sofa Repair the Smart Choice?

If your sofa’s frame and core structure are still solid, repair is usually the better option. Common issues like these are typically fixable:

• Ripped or worn fabric
• Flat or uneven cushions
• Loose or broken springs
• Stained or faded upholstery
• Minor pet or water damage

These can often be addressed through sofa upholstery services, widely available in Singapore. Simple fixes, like patching fabric or replacing foam, might cost -0. A full reupholstery job could range from 0 to ,100, depending on fabric and sofa size.

Compare that to a new sofa: a decent one starts at ,300, while high-end models can hit ,000 or more. If your sofa isn’t structurally damaged or poorly made, sofa repair is usually the more budget-friendly choice.

When Should You Replace?

Not all sofas are worth saving. Consider a new one if:

• The frame is cracked, warped, or wobbly
• It’s a cheaply built piece with weak joints
• Repair costs exceed 70% of a new sofa’s price
• You want a different style, size, or design

In these cases, replacing might be the better long-term move. If you’ve never loved your sofa’s look or comfort, a new one could be a chance to upgrade.

What Does Sofa Repair Involve?

Singapore’s sofa repair services offer various solutions:

• Foam replacement: Swap out old foam for high-density foam to restore cushion support.
• Spring repair: Fix or replace sagging or squeaky springs.
• Sofa upholstery: New fabric or leather can completely refresh your sofa’s appearance.
• Frame fixes: Minor frame damage can often be reinforced by professionals.

Most services provide free quotes, and some offer on-site assessments. When choosing sofa upholstery, request fabric samples to ensure the color and texture match your vision.

Why Singapore’s Context Matters

Several factors make sofa repair particularly appealing in Singapore:

1. High costs: Quality furniture is pricey, making repairs a cost-effective way to extend your sofa’s life.
2. Space constraints: Moving old sofas out and new ones into HDB flats or condos can be a hassle.
3. Sustainability: Repairing reduces waste, which is crucial in a compact, eco-conscious city.

These realities make sofa upholstery and repair both economical and practical.

Pros and Cons of Sofa Repair

Here’s a snapshot to help you decide:

Pros:

• Significantly cheaper than a new sofa
• Preserves a sofa you’re fond of
• Customizable with new fabrics or cushion firmness
• Eco-friendly, reducing landfill waste

Cons:

• Not worthwhile for low-quality sofas
• Repairs may take 1–3 weeks
• Requires a reliable service provider
• Some damage can’t be fixed

How to Choose a Sofa Repair Service

To ensure quality results, be selective when picking a service:

• Expertise: Opt for specialists in sofa upholstery and repair, not just general furniture work.
• Reviews: Check customer feedback for insights on quality and punctuality.
• Portfolio: Before-and-after photos showcase their craftsmanship.
• Quotes: Compare two or three quotes, but avoid suspiciously low prices, which may indicate subpar work.

If your sofa has sentimental value—say, it’s a family heirloom—repair is almost always worth it. New sofas rarely carry the same emotional weight.

The Bottom Line

Is sofa repair cheaper than buying new? In most cases, yes.

In Singapore, where furniture is costly and space is tight, repairing your sofa often makes more sense. If the frame is solid, sofa upholstery can fix issues like worn fabric or flat cushions for a fraction of a new sofa’s cost. Plus, you can tailor it to your style.

Choose repair unless the damage is severe or the sofa’s quality is poor. A good sofa repair can make your furniture feel brand new—without the hefty price tag.