Expert: Mark H. Miller - 3/30/2010

Question
Hi Mark.
Most references show no-sag (zig-zag) springs mounted to the top surface of the chair rails with clips.  But so far, in the first two chairs I have disassembled, I have found that the spring clips are nailed onto the inside face of the rails.  On my older open-arm side chair, the springs are suspended from the clips by a thick guage wire (basically u-shaped double hook).  On my mid-century Heywood Wakefield wingback, the springs are connected directly to the clips (which are pulling out).  Is this just an old construct, or is there some benefit?  Since I need to repair the wingback before reupholstery, should I simply reattach the springs in the same way, or move them to a top mounting position (if the deck is not raised too much)?
Thanks in advance,
Lisa.

Answer
Hi Lisa,

There are numerous methods for attaching no-sag springs,  in my opinion the best is where the springs are nailed in a clip on top of the rail.  That way the chance of the nail coming out is minimal.   When the clips are on the inside of a frame that usually indicates that at one time a repair has been made.  If you can nail the clips on top of the rail that is the best way to go.

Also,  there is a special nail for holding no-sag springs called a no-sag nail,  that nail is about 1 inch long and has a serrated edge to prevent the nail from pulling out, a nail with a smooth surface will not stay in place.  If you are unable to locate nails with a serrated edge or no-sag nails, then it may be better to use a screw instead of a nail.

Also please be aware that installing no-sag springs is extremely dangerous and could cause serious injury,  the method I recommend is that you securely attach the clip on the back of the chair with all nails and or screw in place.  Then wrap a double twine around the second to last loop at the front, wrap the other end of the twine around your left hand and wrist and pull the spring over the clip then immediately nail or screw it down, that way if the spring comes out it will - hopefully - jump away from you.  

I hope this helps.

Mark Miller.