If your sofa has seen better days, it might be time for a refresh.

Thats where reupholstering comes in.

Choosing to reupholster a couch comes with a slew of advantages, namelyextending the lifespanof your existing couch.

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Photo:Nadia Cruzova/Getty Images

Ahead, find out what you better know before reupholstering your couch.

Common fabrics used in reupholstery include cotton, linen, wool, leather, polyester, and nylon.

Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon are typically more affordable than natural materials.

Pete Faris, owner ofPistol Petes Upholsteryin Yarmouth, Maine, cautions to be careful when choosing lower-priced materials.

With fabric, you often get what you pay for, Faris notes.

Size and Shape

The size, shape, and complexity of your couch come next.

Similarly, the types of cushions and padding will play a role in the fee and final product.

Are you adding more stuffing into sagging cushions?

Are you preserving the tight seats and back that have served you well for so long?

Naturally, any additional features or customization options will also add lines to your invoice.

The newer the piece, the less time and effort will be needed to improve its interior structure.

Labor

The largest indicator of price will likely be labor, explains Faris.

Faris points out that locationreallymatters and is a major reason for the broad price range.

But for one with fabric thats $45 per yard, the cost is $720.

Faris recommends perusing discontinued bolts of fabric that often sell for less.