Would you purchase a new car without learning about its warranty? Would you buy a new appliance, like a stove or refrigerator, without first checking if a warranty is offered? Probably not. Yet, many people buy furniture without any guarantee that the item will be repaired if something goes wrong.
So, what is a warranty, and do you really need one for your furniture? A warranty is a written guarantee that your furniture will be replaced or repaired under certain pre-determined circumstances if it’s found to be defective. It’s essential to read the warranty carefully so you understand your responsibilities, exactly what’s covered, and what’s excluded.
Do You Need a Warranty for Furniture?
The answer to this question depends on several factors:
- Price: If you paid a significant amount for your furniture, you should expect it to be free from defects. However, if something like a broken spring, frame issues, or fabric problems occur, you’ll want assurance that these will be addressed by the dealer, manufacturer, or another party. On the other hand, if the item was inexpensive and intended for short-term use, a warranty may not be worth the added cost or effort.
- Quality: You can check the spring system and learn about the type of wood used and how the furniture is manufactured. But it’s harder to assess fabric quality, for example. A fabric may appear fine at first, but in reality, it could be inferior. This is especially true of leather, which is expensive and prone to cracking, peeling, or transferring dye to clothing. A furniture warranty that covers fabric can protect you from these issues and ensure that your upholstered chair or sofa lasts as long as it should. This added protection may offer peace of mind and could be worth an extra fee.
- Furniture Style: If your furniture contains mechanisms that could break, a warranty is likely a good idea. This includes items like recliners, drawer glides, table leaves, sleeper sofa mechanisms, etc. You’ll want to confirm that these are covered under the manufacturer’s warranty and check if additional coverage is available for purchase. You don’t want to end up with a comfortable chair that refuses to recline or a beautiful dining table that can’t expand because of defective mechanisms.
Warranty Options
Most manufacturers offer some form of limited warranty on their furniture. This means they will repair or replace defective items under specific conditions. For example, fabric is usually protected against fraying, dye transfer, and splitting due to “normal wear and tear” for one year from the date of purchase. Cushions and foam are generally guaranteed not to sag or break apart for one year. The springs and wood frame are often guaranteed not to break or separate for up to five years, again under “normal wear and tear.”
Occasionally, manufacturers will offer a lifetime warranty, typically on high-end, quality furniture. Keep in mind, however, that this refers to the “lifetime” of the furniture, not your lifetime. The warranty text will include exclusions and disclaimers, identifying issues such as abnormal wear and tear, excessive abuse, or improper cleaning methods as grounds for voiding the warranty. Be sure to carefully read the warranty in full to understand exactly what is covered and what is excluded.
By following all cleaning and care instructions provided by the manufacturer, you’ll not only maintain the appearance and comfort of your furniture but also keep the warranty intact in case a problem arises down the road.
Whether your goal is to buy affordable furniture for short-term use or invest in a quality piece that will last for years, the importance of a warranty should not be overlooked. Even if your furniture wasn’t expensive, a defective item without a guarantee is simply a waste of money. Before you spend your hard-earned money, talk to your dealer to find out what type of protection is available—both included in the price and for an additional fee. This way, you can relax and enjoy your new furniture, knowing you’re protected should any issues arise.
