by Kathleen Hesketh

Created on: March 04, 2009

In any Sunday paper there are a myriad of ads depicting furniture at sale prices. The problem is, these sale prices run the gamut from $300 at one store for your favorite style sofa, to over a $1,000 at another. A third ad shows the same style in the perfect fabric, but it is over $2,500. While most buyer's are willing to sacrifice a fabric to save a few thousand dollars, this may not be the only thing they are giving up.

Furniture generally falls into one of three categories: High, Mid and Low end. The differences found between low end and high end manufacturers are quite dramatic in means of style, quality and availability of options. Low end manufacturers specialize in turning out a popular product at a popular price. This means cutting corners on features that would ensure longevity in both construction and finishes. On the other hand, high end manufacturers, who charge 3 to 4 times as much for a product, are intensely conscious of every detail of manufacturing and must price their product to offset the cost of doing business. When buying furniture, it is important to understand why value furniture is priced so far below high end pieces and make the choice accordingly.

Low End Furniture

Low end manufacturers sell their pieces at rock bottom prices. To make money, they must scrimp on quality that may be important to some buyers. Construction is generally not on par with pieces of the upper level and materials do not support longevity. The use of particle board and laminates is common, though sometimes favorable to certain buyers. For example, a young family may prefer the ease and durability of a laminate finish over wood. Most construction is done by screws or nails and sometimes supported with wood glue. Where solid woods are used, fewer steps are employed in the finishing process resulting in less luminosity and a rougher feel. Veneer styling is often made from laminates and not real wood, and when placed over poor substrates such as particle board or plywood, often warp or peel. Where upholstery is concerned, fabrics are limited to very few choices or none at all. Construction can include a coil or sinuous coil base, but some manufacturers use straps or bands which will soon stretch or warp out of shape.

Mid Range Furniture

Pieces in this range often provide the best value for the dollar. While incorporating a solid variety of fabric and finish options, their true mark is on better quality. Most manufacturers in this range are conscious of constructing a

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