When your sofa starts looking worn—torn fabric, sagging seats, or faded colors—you’re faced with a decision: repair it or replace it? In Singapore, where furniture is expensive and space is scarce, this choice isn’t always simple.

The gist: sofa repair is often cheaper than buying new. But it depends on the sofa’s condition, its quality, and the repairs needed.

Let’s explore.

When Is Sofa Repair the Right Move?

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

• Ripped or worn-out fabric
• Flat or deflated cushions
• Broken or sagging springs
• Stains or faded upholstery
• Minor pet or water damage

These can often be addressed through sofa upholstery services, which are widely available in Singapore. Minor fixes, like patching fabric or refilling cushions, might cost $80-$180. A full reupholstery job could range from $350 to $1,000, depending on fabric and sofa size.

Compare that to a new sofa: a good-quality one starts at $1,200, while high-end models can cost $3,500 or more. Unless your sofa is severely damaged or poorly constructed, sofa repair is usually the smarter financial choice.

When Should You Replace?

Some sofas aren’t worth saving. Consider a new one if:

• The frame is cracked, warped, or unstable
• It’s a cheaply made piece with flimsy joints
• Repair costs are more than 70% of a new sofa’s price
• You’re craving a different style, size, or look

In these cases, replacing might be the better long-term investment. If you’ve never been happy with your sofa’s comfort or design, a new one could be a fresh start.

What Does Sofa Repair Include?

Singapore’s sofa repair services offer a variety of fixes:

• Foam refresh: Replace old foam with high-density foam to restore cushion firmness.
• Spring repair: Fix or replace sagging or noisy springs.
• Sofa upholstery: New fabric or leather can transform your sofa’s appearance.
• Frame reinforcement: Minor frame damage can often be repaired by skilled craftsmen.

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

Why Singapore’s Context Matters

Several factors make sofa repair particularly practical in Singapore:

1. Costly furniture: High-quality sofas come with steep price tags, making repairs more appealing.
2. Limited space: Disposing of an old sofa and delivering a new one can be tricky in compact HDB flats or condos.
3. Eco-friendliness: Repairing reduces waste, which is vital in a small, resource-conscious city.

These realities make sofa upholstery and repair a sensible choice for many.

Pros and Cons of Sofa Repair

Here’s a quick summary:

Pros:

• Much cheaper than buying new
• Keeps a sofa you love
• Customizable with new fabrics, colors, or firmness
• More sustainable, cutting down on waste

Cons:

• Not ideal for low-quality sofas
• Repairs can take 1–4 weeks
• Requires finding a trustworthy service
• Some damage may be unfixable

Choosing a Sofa Repair Service

To get the best results, choose your repair service carefully:

• Specialization: Look for experts in sofa upholstery and repair, not just general carpentry.
• Reviews: Check customer feedback for insights on quality and timelines.
• Portfolio: Before-and-after photos help gauge their skill.
• Quotes: Compare multiple quotes, but avoid overly cheap offers, which may signal poor quality.

If your sofa has sentimental value—like a cherished family piece—repair is almost always worth it. New sofas can’t match that kind of history.

The Bottom Line

Is sofa repair cheaper than buying new? Usually, yes.

In Singapore, where furniture is pricey and space is at a premium, repairing your sofa often makes more sense. If the frame is solid, sofa upholstery can fix issues like worn fabric or sagging cushions affordably. You also get to customize the look to fit your style.

Choose repair unless the damage is extensive or the sofa’s quality is low. A good sofa repair can revive your furniture—saving you money and hassle.