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What to Know Before Buying a Sectional Sofa

Sectional Sofa

Clara West |


Whether you're furnishing your first apartment or upgrading your family living room, a sectional sofa might just be the most impactful piece you’ll ever buy. But with all the shapes, sizes, and configurations out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

We’re breaking it all down — from fit to fabrics — so you can shop smarter, not harder.

What Is a Sectional Sofa?

A sectional is a modular sofa made of multiple sections that can be arranged to fit your space. It usually comes in L-shaped or U-shaped formats, sometimes with added chaise lounges, recliners, or even sleeper features.

1. Know Your Room’s Flow

Before you fall in love with a look, map your space. Ask yourself:

  • Where are your windows and walkways?

  • Will the sectional block anything important (outlets, radiators, patio doors)?

  • Do you need a left-facing or right-facing chaise?

Tip: Use painter’s tape to outline different sectional sizes on your floor. Walk around it. Live with it for a day. You’ll instantly know if it feels too cramped or too small.

2. Understand the Configuration Terms

These terms show up a lot online — and here’s what they actually mean:

  • LAF/RAF: Left-arm facing or right-arm facing. This refers to where the arm is when you’re facing the sofa, not sitting on it.

  • Reversible Chaise: These can be flipped from left to right. Great for renters or frequent movers.

  • Modular: Individual pieces you can rearrange — the most flexible option.

3. Don’t Ignore Depth and Height

  • Seat depth: Go for deeper (over 22”) if you love to lounge.

  • Back height: If you have low windows or want a modern vibe, lower backs work. For maximum comfort, taller backs support your shoulders and neck.

4. Material Matters

Sectionals are investment pieces — so your choice of fabric will make a big difference:

  • Performance fabrics (like LiveSmart, Revolution, or polyester blends): Great for kids, pets, and spill-prone households

  • Velvet: Luxe and cozy but can require more upkeep

  • Leather: Long-lasting and timeless, but usually pricier

  • Corduroy base: A stylish mid-century trend making a strong comeback (and yes, we carry them)

5. Is a Sleeper Sectional Worth It?

If you entertain or have frequent guests, the answer is yes — especially if space is tight. Modern sleepers are nothing like the lumpy sofa beds of the past — they come with memory foam mattresses, hidden compartments, and smooth pull-outs.

You can browse our sleeper sectional collection .

6. Test Before You Buy (If You Can)

In-store testing is ideal — and if you’re in SoCal, stop by our Santa Ana showroom near 17th Street & Tustin Ave (next to In-N-Out and Chick-fil-A). Sit, lounge, lie down — this is a piece you’ll live with for years.

If you’re shopping online, read reviews carefully, check return policies, and always ask about firmness.

7. Same-Day Delivery? Yes, Really.

We offer same-day delivery on many of our best-selling sectionals across Orange County and Los Angeles. Get it fast, skip the stress.

Final Thought

Buying a sectional shouldn’t feel like a gamble. With the right layout and fabric, it becomes the heart of your home — the spot for Netflix nights, family gatherings, or just stretching out solo.

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