How to Buy Living Room Furniture: Sectionals

Your Guide to Buying the Right Sectional

A sectional can transform a living room space, but the right layout depends on your room and lifestyle. From L-shaped and U-shaped designs to chaise and cuddler configurations, here’s how to find the best fit and choose one built to last.

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Learn how to shop for quality living room furniture

Measure. Measure. Measure.

The most common mistake is size. A 12-foot room does not mean a 12-foot sectional will fit. Before committing to a piece, measure your space carefully—length, width, and depth—and account for walking room. As a general rule, leave about 36 inches of clearance in main footpaths so the room stays comfortable to move through.

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Clip System

Check whether the sectional includes a clip system that locks the pieces together. This feature is essential—it prevents the sections from shifting, sliding, or separating when you sit down or stretch out.

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Padded Sides

Evaluate how the sectional looks from every angle, especially if you plan to float it in the middle of a room. Many sectionals are not fully padded or finished on all sides. A light press on the back is a quick test: if it feels hollow, that is a red flag.

Padded side of the Jessie Sectional

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Solid Feel

Give the sectional a quick hip test by bumping it with your hip. A well-built piece stays solid and does not shift or wobble.

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Cushion Density

Make sure the seat cushions are filled with dense, high-resilience foam that won't flatten or sag after regular use. Cushions with a higher foam density hold their shape longer, providing consistent comfort and support for years to come.

Centennial sofa in Hunter detail

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Seating System

The seating system beneath the cushions is key to lasting support and overall durability. Look for options like eight-way hand-tied springs or a sinuous spring system, which distribute weight evenly and prevent the sagging.

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HOW TO SHOP FOR LIVING ROOM FURNITURE

Shopping for living room furniture can feel overwhelming, but we’ve curated our tips for choosing quality furniture so you can find the best sofas, sectionals and leather furniture for your home. We’ll share expert furniture shopping tips on finding durable furniture, including how to evaluate cushion comfort, spring systems and frame durability so you can tell the difference between a piece that looks good and one that truly lasts.

At Havertys, we believe your furniture should be more than just a seat—it should be a blend of comfort, style and long-lasting quality. With the right knowledge, you can avoid common furniture shopping mistakes and make an investment in a piece that enhances your home for years to come.

Want even more help finding the right furniture for your living room? Visit your local Havertys showroom today.

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Your Guide to Buying the Right Sectional

A sectional can transform a living room space, but the right layout depends on your room and lifestyle. From L-shaped and U-shaped designs to chaise and cuddler configurations, here’s how to find the best fit and choose one built to last.

Measure. Measure. Measure.

Check Construction

Clip System

Padded Sides

Solid Feel

Cushion Density

Seating System

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HOW TO SHOP FOR LIVING ROOM FURNITURE