When buying old items, check the underside of each piece. It is common for it to look solid, but actually be in poor condition. Older furniture is usually plagued by two common problems - dry rot and rust Outdoor Furniture.
When you see something you like, wait to buy it for at least 24 hours. If it's not the last item in stock, you have the time. You need to go home and see if the piece you're considering would work in your space, and whether you really want to spend the money. Waiting will help.
When considering wooden furniture items, look deeper than the surface. Check both the inside and underside, and also any drawers or cabinets. Many times, this inspection is going to let you make a better assessment of the furniture than you'd get by simply inspecting the surface wood. Also known as secondary woods, you can learn about the wood's quality and age through these surfaces.
Watch out for furniture that is poorly made. To ensure that you are purchasing a sofa that will withstand the punishment your family can do to your sofa turn the sofa upside down and look at the structure of the sofa. Poorly made furniture will be made using 1x1's instead of 2x2.
Really look at the legs of any furniture you are considering buying. Those legs need to not only support weight, they'll also be in contact with your flooring. If they look like they'll do damage to your floor due to the materials used (like metal), then you may want to opt for a different style.
Think about where you are going to place a piece of furniture that you are shopping for. If it is going near a heating unit or a vent of some kind, then wood furniture is not a good choice. Dry heat means wood is likely to dry out and shrink over time, which leaves cracks. If you have to, compensate with a humidifier in drier months. You want a moisture level of about 40 percent.
Plan well ahead of any furniture purchase. Don't go shopping on a whim. Know what type of vehicle you'll need to pick up the new piece. Know what you'll do with the old furniture that you are replacing. Also know what you'll do if there's a significant gap in the timing between getting your new furniture and getting rid of the older furniture. There are lots of questions that need to be considered.
As you venture out to the furniture stores now, you will know how to get the best deals. You will understand what your options are. You will be prepared to be the best shopper ever when it comes to buying the furnishings your home needs to look its absolute best.
