Calgary homes see a lot of action. Kids spill snacks. Pets sneak onto cushions. Winter boots trail in snow. Because of this, many families look for sturdy pieces without stretching the budget. Used furniture stores can help you find quality pieces that last. You save money, reduce waste, and bring home items with character. The key is knowing what to look for so you avoid hidden problems.
Pros and Cons of Buying Used Furniture
Buying used has clear strengths. Prices are lower. You often find solid wood pieces that are harder to get new. Many older items were built with better materials. Calgary shoppers often appreciate this, especially during dry winters that can challenge weaker frames. Used furniture stores also support sustainability. Choosing pre-owned means one less piece going to the landfill.
There are trade-offs. Some pieces carry stains or strong smells. Drawer tracks may stick. Upholstery may sag. Quality varies a lot from store to store. You need to inspect each item carefully. A good find can last for years. A rushed purchase might fall apart after a few months. Taking your time is worth it.
How to Inspect Furniture Before You Buy
A strong inspection helps you buy confidently. Calgary homes demand pieces that can handle daily use. These checks keep you from taking home regrets.
Check the frame
For chairs, tables, and storage pieces, look for hardwood. Maple, birch, or oak feel heavy and solid. Press on corners. If you hear creaking, the joints might be loose. Avoid frames made mostly with particleboard. They weaken fast in dry homes.
Test drawers
Open and close every drawer. Drawers should glide smoothly without wobbling. Check the bottom for signs of warping. Warped drawers stick when the weather changes. Calgary’s humidity swings can make this worse.
Look at upholstery
Scan the fabric for stains. Run your hand across the surface. If the texture feels uneven, the foam inside may be breaking down. Press on the cushions. If they flatten and do not spring back, they might need to be replaced. Smell the fabric. Strong odours are hard to remove, especially when pets or smoke are involved.
Check support systems
Sit down. Shift your weight. Listen for squeaks. Uneven support usually means worn springs or webbing. If the seat sags deeply, the repairs may cost more than the piece is worth.
Scan for structural damage
Tilt chairs and tables to check the legs. Look for cracks or repairs that seem sloppy. A quick fix made with glue alone will not last long. Calgary floors can be uneven in older homes. Solid legs help keep the furniture stable.
When visiting used furniture stores in Calgary, take your time. Move pieces. Test pieces. Ask about the item’s history if the staff knows it. Your goal is to balance price with long-term use.
Quick Ways to Refresh Used Pieces
One advantage of buying used is how simple it can be to refresh a piece.
Stain and paint
Sanding a wood table and adding stain gives it new life. Pick colours that match your home. Lighter stains brighten smaller Calgary rooms. Darker stains add warmth during long winters. Paint works well on dressers and shelves. A fresh coat can make a dated piece feel new.
Replace hardware
Switching out knobs or handles changes the look right away. This small detail brings personality to your space without spending much.
Re-upholstery
If the frame is solid, new fabric can extend the life of a sofa or chair. Performance fabrics handle kids and pets better. They also stand up to Calgary’s bright sunlight. Even a simple slipcover works well if you want a quick fix.
Minor repairs
Tighten screws. Add furniture pads to protect floors. Oil drawer tracks. These small steps improve daily use.
If you enjoy a bit of DIY, buying used can feel rewarding. You create pieces that fit your home’s style and routine.
Calgary shoppers who want brand-new furniture with strong warranties often visit Showhome Furniture. They carry Canadian-made pieces built to handle the city’s climate. If you prefer new but still want to stay on budget, their showroom offers many options.
Used furniture stores give you the chance to stretch your budget while finding solid, stylish pieces. With careful inspection and a few simple upgrades, you bring home furniture that supports your daily life without compromise.
Visit Showhome Furniture for Quality Pieces Built to Last
If you prefer new furniture with clear warranties and long-lasting materials, Showhome Furniture offers strong options designed for Calgary living. Their selection includes Canadian-made sofas and solid pieces that handle pets, kids, and changing weather. You can compare fabrics, frame types, and support systems while getting friendly guidance from their team. For shoppers who want dependable quality without surprises, their showroom gives you practical choices that fit everyday life and busy homes.
FAQs About Shopping at Used Furniture Stores:
How do I know if a used furniture piece is worth the price?
Start by checking the frame, joints, and overall stability. A solid wood frame usually signals long-term value. Sit on chairs and sofas to test support. Open drawers to make sure they glide without sticking. Look for stains or strong smells, which can be tough to fix. When browsing used furniture stores, compare the price with the amount of work the piece needs. If the repair cost stays low and the structure is strong, the piece is usually worth buying.
What are the best materials to look for when buying used furniture in Calgary?
Hardwoods such as maple, birch, oak, and ash hold up well in Calgary homes, especially through dry winters. Solid wood pieces from older decades often use stronger joinery. For upholstered pieces, look for thick fabrics, tight weaves, and cushions that still bounce back when pressed. Leather can work if it shows mild wear without cracking. When checking used furniture stores, focus on solid construction first. Cosmetic issues are easier to fix than weak frames.
How can I tell if an upholstered piece has hidden issues?
Start by pressing the cushions. They should rise back into shape. Run your hand across the fabric to check for thin spots. Lift the cushion if possible and examine the support under it. Sit and shift your weight to listen for squeaks or sinking areas. Smells are important. Smoke or pet odors can be hard to remove. When visiting used furniture stores, trust your senses. If something feels off, it usually is.
Is buying used furniture safe for homes with kids or pets?
Yes, if you take time to inspect each piece. Check corners for sharp edges. Make sure legs are stable so the item does not wobble. Strong frames and durable woods work well for busy homes. Upholstered pieces should feel clean and smell neutral. If you plan to re-upholster, choose performance fabrics to handle spills, fur, and sunlight. Used furniture stores often carry pieces with strong bones that work well once refreshed.
What are simple ways to update used furniture without spending much?
A light sanding and new stain can change the entire look of a table or dresser. Paint works well for older pieces that need a fresh style. New hardware helps update drawers and cabinets. Slipcovers or new fabric on seat cushions improve comfort. Adding pads under legs protects floors and keeps the piece steady. When shopping at used furniture stores, think about how a few low-cost upgrades can turn a basic item into something special.
When is it better to skip a used piece and buy new instead?
If the frame feels loose, the drawers sag, or the upholstery carries deep odors or stains, the repair costs may outweigh the savings. Pieces with cracked legs, warped tops, or damaged suspension often need more work than expected. In those cases, choosing new furniture makes sense. Many Calgary shoppers visit Showhome Furniture for durable Canadian-made options with clear warranties. This gives you strong materials and long-term comfort with no hidden repairs.
