Purchasing a sectional sofa can significantly enhance the comfort and aesthetic appeal of your living space. However, ensuring that the sectional fits perfectly into your designated area requires careful measurement.
Proper measuring not only prevents potential fitting issues but also helps you visualize how the sectional will complement your room’s layout. This guide on how to measure for a sectional will walk you through the essential steps to measure for a sectional, ensuring you make an informed and confident decision.
What is a Sectional?
A sectional is a type of sofa that comprises multiple pieces, usually consisting of two or more connected sections. These sections can include a combination of loveseats, armchairs, and chaise lounges, creating a versatile seating arrangement.
Sectionals are ideal for larger living spaces or open floor plans as they offer plenty of seating without taking up too much space visually. They also come in various styles, making them suitable for different design preferences.
Why Measure for a Sectional?
Before you begin measuring for a sectional, it’s essential to understand why accurate measurements are crucial. Here are some reasons why measuring is essential:
1.Ensures Proper Fit:
Measuring helps you determine the size and configuration of the sectional that will best fit your designated area.
2.Prevents Potential Issues:
Inaccurate measurements can result in fitting problems, such as pieces not aligning or leaving gaps. This, in turn, can affect the comfort and aesthetics of your living space.
3.Helps with Visualization:
Measuring allows you to visualize how the sectional will look in your room. This helps you determine if it complements your existing furniture and layout or if adjustments need to be made.
10 Simple Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Measure for a Sectional
Step 1: Choose the Location
The first step in measuring for a sectional is to choose the location where you want it to be placed. This can be against a wall or in the center of your living space. The location will determine the shape and size of the sectional you can purchase. You also need to consider any obstructions or doorways that may affect the placement.
Step 2: Measure Your Room
Once you have chosen the location for your sectional, the next step is to measure your room. Use a tape measure to determine the length and width of the area where you intend to place the sectional. Be sure to account for any architectural features, such as windows, fireplaces, or built-in shelving that may impact the sectional’s placement.
Make a note of the measurements and mark the corners or boundaries of the sectional area with painter’s tape for visualization. This will give you a clearer understanding of the available space and help you choose a sectional that fits perfectly without crowding your room.
Step 3: Consider the Style
Before moving on to measuring individual pieces, think about the style of sectional you want. Different styles, such as L-shaped or U-shaped, require different measurements and configurations. It’s important to have a clear idea of the style you want before taking specific measurements.
Step 4: Determine Height Requirements
Consider any height restrictions in your room, such as low-hanging fixtures or ceilings that may affect the height requirements for your sectional. This is particularly important if you plan on purchasing a sectional with a tall backrest.
Step 5: Measure Doorways and Hallways
If you are planning on placing your sectional in a room that requires it to pass through doorways or hallways, measure their width and height. This will ensure that the sectional can fit through without any issues during delivery.
Step 6: Measure Obstructions
If you have any obstructions in your room, such as pillars or built-in furniture, take measurements of their dimensions. These will help determine the size and configuration of the sectional that can fit around these obstacles without causing any fitting problems.
Step 7: Consider Other Furniture
Take into account other pieces of furniture in your living space, such as coffee tables or end tables, when measuring for a sectional. You want to ensure that there is enough space for these items to be placed comfortably alongside the sectional without overcrowding the room.
Step 8: Measure Individual Pieces
Now, it’s time to measure each individual piece of the sectional. Start by measuring the length, width, and height of the armless pieces, then move on to corner pieces, chaise lounges, and any other additional pieces. Be sure to measure from the backrest’s outer edge to the front of the seat cushion for accurate measurements.
Step 9: Consider Seat Depth
When it comes to seating depth, you want to ensure that your feet can touch the ground comfortably while sitting on the sectional. Measure how much space you have between your knees and ankles while seated in a chair or sofa for reference when choosing a comfortable seat depth for your sectional.
Step 10: Final Check
Before making your final purchase decision, double-check all your measurements and make sure they are accurate. This will prevent any potential fitting issues and ensure your sectional fits perfectly in your designated area.
Following these steps on how to measure for a sectional will guide you in measuring for a sectional and help you choose the perfect fit for your living space. Remember, accurate measurements are crucial for ensuring a comfortable and visually appealing sectional that complements your room’s layout. Use this guide to make an informed decision and enjoy the benefits of a well-fitted sectional in your home. Happy measuring!
Additional Tips
1.Take Pictures:
As you measure and visualize the placement of your sectional, take pictures of your space from various angles. These photos can be useful when consulting with store representatives or designers to find the best sectional for your room. Visual references can help ensure you’re considering all aspects of the space and potential sectionals.
2.Use Furniture Layout Apps:
There are numerous apps and online tools available that allow you to input your room’s dimensions and arrange virtual furniture pieces. Using these tools can help you try out different sectional shapes and configurations without the need to physically move furniture around.
3.Think About Future Changes:
Consider any future modifications you might make to your room. If you plan on adding new furniture, changing the room’s layout, or using the space for different purposes, make sure the sectional you choose can easily adapt to these changes.
4.Swatches and Samples:
Ask for fabric swatches and material samples to bring home before making a final decision. Seeing and feeling the fabric in your room’s lighting can help ensure it matches your décor and meets your comfort preferences.
5.Check for Customization Options:
Many furniture stores offer customizable sectionals where you can select the configuration, fabric, and additional features such as recliners or storage options. Explore these options to create a sectional tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
6.Consider Delivery and Assembly:
Finally, remember to think about the delivery and assembly process. Ensure you have the space and tools necessary to receive and set up your new sectional. Some sectionals require professional assembly, so factor this into your planning.
By following these additional tips, you can ensure a smoother process when selecting and placing a sectional in your living space. With careful planning and consideration, your new sectional will not only fit perfectly but also enhance the comfort and aesthetics of your home. Happy shopping!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I Measure for a Sectional on My Own?
A: Yes, measuring for a sectional is a simple task that you can do yourself. However, it’s always recommended to have someone assist you in holding the tape measure and double-checking your measurements. This will ensure accuracy and prevent any potential mistakes.
Q: Are There Standard Measurements for Sectionals?
A: No, there are no standard measurements for sectionals as they come in various sizes and configurations. It’s essential to measure your designated area accurately and choose a sectional that fits within those dimensions comfortably.
Q: Why Do I Need to Consider Other Furniture When Measuring for a Sectional?
A: Considering other furniture in your living space is crucial when measuring for a sectional because it helps you determine the available space and ensures that the sectional will fit without overcrowding or causing any fitting issues.
Q: Can I Modify My Sectional’s Dimensions?
A: No, you cannot modify a sectional’s dimensions once it has been purchased. It’s important to measure accurately and choose a sectional that fits perfectly in your designated area. If you need a customized sectional, it’s best to consult with a furniture professional for assistance. So, it is always better to measure correctly before making the purchase.
Conclusion
Measuring for a sectional may seem like a daunting task, but it’s an essential step in ensuring you choose the right size and configuration for your living space. By following these simple steps how to measure for a sectional, you can confidently shop for a sectional that not only fits perfectly but also complements your room’s layout and design.
Remember to always double-check your measurements and consider any obstructions or height requirements before making your purchase decision. Happy shopping!
