Selecting a new sofa is an exciting experience, but it can quickly become a headache if the piece doesn’t fit your space or won’t make it through the door. Accurate measurements are crucial, ensuring that the sofa you choose not only looks perfect in your living room but also makes it to the intended spot without any trouble. In this guide, we'll go over practical tips to help you measure your space, doorways, and access routes, so you can make the right choice the first time.
Why Measuring Matters
Buying a sofa without measuring first can lead to frustrating scenarios like delivery day surprises or ill-fitting furniture.
- Avoid Delivery Headaches: Ensure the sofa can pass through doorways, hallways, and stairs.
- Fit the Room Perfectly: Choose a sofa size that suits your space without overcrowding it.
- Save Time and Money: Correct measurements reduce the risk of returns, saving you from extra delivery costs and delays.
How to Measure Your Room Properly
Getting accurate room measurements is the first step to finding the perfect sofa.
- Measure Wall Space: Use a tape measure to check the width, length, and height of the area where you plan to place the sofa.
- Consider Clearance: Leave enough space for walking paths around the sofa. A minimum of 18-24 inches between the sofa and other furniture is recommended.
- Account for Other Furniture: If you have other large pieces in the room, measure them too and ensure they won’t crowd the space.
Don't Forget to Measure Doorways and Access Routes
Getting the sofa inside your home can be the trickiest part. Pay attention to every potential obstacle.
- Doorways: Measure the width and height of your doorways. Remember to account for door frames and handles that might reduce space.
- Hallways and Corners: Check hallway widths, and if there are any tight corners, measure the turning angles to ensure the sofa can pass through.
- Stairwells and Elevators: If you live in a multi-story building, consider stairwell width and ceiling height. For elevators, note the interior dimensions and ensure the sofa will fit inside.
Choosing the Right Sofa Size for Your Space
Once you've taken measurements, consider the size and shape of your sofa based on your room's layout.
- Compact Sofas for Small Spaces: If space is tight, opt for smaller two-seater or loveseats. Consider sleek designs with lower profiles.
- Sectionals for Large Rooms: In spacious living areas, a larger sectional can be a great focal point. Make sure to check both length and depth to avoid overwhelming the room.
- Depth and Height Considerations: The seat depth should align with your comfort preferences—deeper seats are better for lounging, while shallow seats are good for formal seating.
Tips for Ensuring a Smooth Delivery
Even with careful measuring, it's essential to double-check delivery logistics to avoid last-minute issues.
- Ask for Sofa Dimensions: Use the manufacturer’s sofa dimensions to cross-check with your room and access measurements.
- Consider Delivery Services: Some stores offer white-glove delivery, where professionals handle all the heavy lifting and positioning.
- Have a Backup Plan: If the sofa won’t fit through a doorway, see if the legs or other components can be removed temporarily.
Conclusion
Measuring correctly before buying a sofa can save you a lot of time, money, and stress. Follow our tips to ensure you get a piece that not only fits your room perfectly but also makes it through your home’s entryways with ease. If you’re ready to find the perfect sofa, explore our collection for options that match your style, size, and comfort needs.
For more tips on selecting the ideal sofa for your home, check out our blog on How to Choose a Sofa that Fits Your Space and Style
FAQs
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What’s the most common mistake when measuring for a sofa?
The most common mistake is not measuring doorways, hallways, and other access points, leading to difficulties during delivery. -
How much clearance should I leave around my sofa?
Leave at least 18-24 inches of space between your sofa and other furniture or walls for easy movement. -
What if my sofa doesn’t fit through the doorway?
Check if the legs or other components are removable. You can also consider professional delivery services that might have additional solutions. -
How do I measure for a sectional sofa?
Measure the full length and depth of the space you want the sectional to occupy. Ensure each section fits the room’s dimensions and doesn't block pathways. -
Can I rely on the online dimensions provided by the retailer?
Yes, but it's always best to measure your space and compare it to the sofa dimensions to avoid any surprises on delivery day.
