Choosing the Right Upholstery Fabric for Commercial and Residential Applications
High-quality upholstery fabric is costly; it's a big part of the cost of your furniture. If you choose the wrong residential upholstery fabric, you could deal with ugly tears and stains a few months later. In the commercial world, the wrong industrial vinyl upholstery fabric makes your business look cheap.
What Is Upholstery Anyway?
Upholstery is the fabric or other material that covers chairs, couches, and other furniture. Today, many upholstered furniture items use foam and springs to offer better durability and longer life. High-quality materials may look similar to their low-price counterparts, but they make a big difference in comfort. Commercial-grade upholstery fabric is insurance that protects you from prematurely replacing your upholstery or furniture.
Choosing the Right Upholstery
As you shop for upholstery fabric, think about practicality. You can use nearly any material if your furniture sees little use. If your furniture is in a high-traffic area, choose a durable fabric that can stand the test. One more consideration, don't just think about what your fabric looks like now; think of how it will age.
Commercial Grade
When you see the words “commercial grade” on furniture or upholstery, what does it mean? Manufacturers build commercial furniture to withstand heavy, continuous use. Every aspect of its design and construction keeps this use case in mind.
Different Types of Upholstery
Different materials have different characteristics. Here is an overview of a few standard commercial upholstery fabrics:
• Canvas
Canvas comes in a range of grades. It's a sturdy fabric ideal for printed designs. Canvas can warp over time, so it's most suitable for furniture that will see moderate use.
• Chenille
This is an excellent choice for delicate pieces that will see heavy use. Chenille may be made of natural cotton or fully synthetic materials like rayon.
• Marine Vinyl
Marine vinyl is a suitable material for outdoor furniture that will be exposed to wind, rain, and sun. It mimics the look of leather but is durable and easy to clean.
• Microfiber
Microfiber offers a combination of softness and strength. It's durable, but it mimics the look and feel of suede. It's also easy to clean, making it an ideal choice for busy families and commercial use.
• Tweed
This is a classic fabric that is often seen on old guitar amplifiers. Tweed is famous because it is exceptionally durable and has a pattern that tends to hide stains.
What is the best fabric for your commercial upholstery? Now you have the tools to help you make the right decision.
What Fabric is Best for Commercial Use?
When selecting fabrics for commercial use, it is essential to consider factors such as durability, ease of maintenance, and cost. Here are a few fabric options that are often suitable for commercial use:
Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic fabric known for its durability and resistance to fading, staining, and wrinkling. It is also easy to clean and maintain, making it a popular choice for commercial applications.
Acrylic: Acrylic is another synthetic fabric resistant to fading, staining, and wrinkling. It is also water resistant and quick drying, which makes it a good choice for outdoor or high-moisture environments.
Nylon: Nylon is a strong and durable synthetic fabric resistant to fading and stains. It is also easy to clean and maintain, making it a popular choice for commercial use.
Leather is a durable and high-quality fabric often used in commercial settings. It is easy to clean and maintain and can add a touch of sophistication to any space.
Vinyl: Vinyl is a synthetic, waterproof fabric often used in commercial settings where durability and easy maintenance are essential. It is resistant to stains and fading and can be easily wiped clean.
Many other fabrics may be suitable for commercial use, depending on your application's specific needs and requirements. It is essential to carefully consider the fabric's intended use and select a suitable material for the environment in which it will be used.
Are Commercial And Residential Upholstery Fabric The Same?
Commercial and residential upholstery fabrics can be similar in some ways, but they also have some key differences.
One of the main differences between commercial and residential upholstery fabrics is the durability and wear and tear they are designed to withstand. Commercial upholstery fabrics are generally more durable and resistant to stains and fading, as they are designed to withstand the higher levels of use and abuse common in commercial settings.
On the other hand, residential upholstery fabrics are typically designed for less frequent use and may not be as durable as commercial fabrics. They may also have more decorative or stylish features, such as patterns or textures, which may need to be more practical in a commercial setting.
Another difference between commercial and residential upholstery fabrics is the type of maintenance they require. Commercial upholstery fabrics may be easier to clean and maintain as they are designed to withstand frequent cleaning. Residential upholstery fabrics may be more prone to fading or staining and require more careful cleaning and maintenance.
Overall, it is essential to consider the intended use and environment of the upholstery fabric when selecting a material for your project, whether it is for a commercial or residential setting.