How to fix a sagging sofa

There are several reasons you might need to learn how to fix a sagging sofa. Sadly, our beloved couches don’t last forever. However, if you’re not quite ready to give up your trusty stead, you might be tempted to fix it instead.

You can do this by hiring an expert to complete a professional repair or by attempting various DIY methods yourself.

This blog is going to focus on the latter. So, read on for our step by step guide.

How to fix a sagging sofa

Before you begin, you need to work out the cause of the sagging. Is it a broken frame? Are the springs old and worn? Or do the cushions need restoring?

Once you’ve identified the cause, it’s time to get to work.

How to fix sagging sofa cushions yourself

If your sofa is sagging because of worn-out cushions, then it’s a good time to wash the cushion covers and revamp the inside layer with new stuffing. Most cushions are filled with foam and ‘batting,’ which is an upholstery fabric made out of wool, cotton or polyester blends. The batting covers the foam to create a smooth finish. So, if the batting is worn, you can just replace it and leave the foam. But if the foam is dented, it’s worth replacing the entire cushion.

To do this, either hire a professional to restore your cushions for an expert finish or take the entire cushion to your local upholstery shop so they can replace it for you. Alternatively, measure the height, width and depth of your foam and batting and order replacement materials online.

Top tip: If you’re doing it yourself, be sure to cut the batting to shape. We recommend layering it around the foam and smoothing it out to avoid lumps.

How to fix sagging sofa springs

Repairing sagging sofa springs is one of the trickier aspects of sofa repairs. So, unless you’re a confident DIY’er, we highly recommend hiring a professional to come and do the job for you. Read our sofa spring repair cost guide for information about pricing up your project.

However, if you’d like to do it yourself, read our step by step guide below.

Step one: Inspect the springs on your sofa by removing the dust cover. Does your couch use zigzag or coiled springs? And are they bent or broken?

We ask because bent springs are easier to fix yourself while broken springs require a professional replacement due to the need for specialised tools.

Step two: For springs that are bent, use a pair of pliers to bend them back into shape. This works for zigzag springs but will have a limited effect on coiled makes, which will need to be replaced.

Step three: If you still want to do it yourself, remove any broken springs and recycle them. Then, use a spring compressor tool on either end of the replacement spring, turning the handles clockwise with a wrench to pry the coils open. This will allow you to thread each end of the spring through the supports screwed into opposite ends of your sofa.

Step four: Turn the compression tool anticlockwise to decompress the springs and secure them in place.

Step five: Replace any fabric or dust cover that needed removing to get to the springs.

Note: This is a dangerous job that needs to be done using proper care and consideration. Trapped fingers and spring-back accidents are common occurrences.

How to fix a sagging sofa with plywood

For broken frames, you can use plywood to fix the issue. There are two issues plywood can resolve when it comes to a sagging sofa. These are broken slats or broken frames. We’re going to explain how to fix both.

Tools you need for the job

Before you get started, add the following to your arsenal:

• Replacement wood
• Screwdriver
• Nail remover
• Wood filler
• Staple gun

Step one: Check the slats and frame and remove any broken wood. Do this carefully to avoid tearing your sofa fabric. Pry out any nails or broken springs attached to the wood.

Step two: Work out what replacement wood is needed and purchase the right dimensions, plus a little extra in case you make a mistake.

Step three: Remove the broken boards with the new boards using your staple gun to secure them in place. For extra security, add wood glue to the joints and let everything dry overnight.

Step four: Once your wood glue is set, reupholster your sofa by replacing any fabric or springs.

FAQs

How can I make my sofa firmer?

To make your sofa firmer, replace your cushion filling with higher-density foam and batting. You can also secure a piece of plywood between the couch frame and the cushions, which adds extra support. Note: This won’t work for couches with cushions that are permanently attached.

Can you fix a sunken couch?

It’s possible to follow our step by step guide above to fix a sunken couch. However, for a long-lasting and professional finish, we always recommend hiring one of our experts.

How do you fix a sagging couch with plywood?

Follow our ‘how to fix a sagging sofa with plywood’ guide above. Alternatively, hire an expert your neighbours recommend to undertake a professional repair.

How to fix a sagging leather sofa

Follow our above steps or hire an expert your neighbours recommend to undertake a professional repair. If you opt to go down the DIY route and replace your cushion filling, make sure you replace it with high-density foam and batting.