Expert: Mark H. Miller - 3/6/2008

Question
I have a leather couch that has attached cushions.  The couch has begun to sag badly.  I have flipped the couch and opened up the bottom.  There are two semi-circles of foam supported with some flexiable wood that has broken.  Where can I get those materials to try and repair the couch myself.  Are they things at Home Depot or do I need to see an upholstery specialist?  I've tried to call someone to come in and repair it, people haven't been very helpful.

Answer
Hi,  yours is a very common problem.  From what you describe there are no springs in your sofa, that is the least expensive way of making furniture.  To repair the broken wood, if you can even find an upholsterer to do the job will most likely cost you more than the sofa is worth.  

To repair the broken slats yourself you could consider cutting 4X1 inch slats that run from front to back inside the cavity and then bracing that with a 2X4 under those slats that run the length of the sofa one in front and one back.  Problem with doing that is you may feel like you are sitting on wood slats which may be very uncomfortable.

Another way to solve your problem is a "trick of the trade" and that is that you fill the entire cavity with foam, any foam will do, old cushions or an upholsterer may sell you his scrap foam.  Once you have filled the cavity then you install 1/4 thick or more, depending on the size of the sofa, plywood sheets and securely screw those into the base of the sofa to hold it all in place.  If you do that you will be sitting on the cushions that are semi attached and they properly supported underneath by a huge block of foam which will give like springs.

I hope this makes sense,  please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of further help.

Mark Miller.