How to Decide Between DIY and Professional Furniture Assembly

Assembling furniture can be a daunting task. Whether it’s a sleek new bookshelf or a modular sofa, many people find themselves torn between tackling the assembly themselves or hiring a professional. In this blog post, we’ll explore the considerations you should make when deciding which route to take.

Understanding DIY Furniture Assembly

Do-it-yourself (DIY) furniture assembly has become increasingly popular. With various resources available, including instruction manuals, YouTube tutorials, and online forums, anyone can attempt to put together furniture.

For those who enjoy hands-on projects, DIY assembly can be rewarding. You may experience a sense of achievement after completing the task and saving money on labor costs. However, this method can also lead to frustration if the process doesn’t go as planned.

Before diving into a DIY project, consider the following points:

• Skill Level: Are you comfortable using tools? If you have experience with DIY projects, you may find this task manageable. However, if you rarely pick up tools, some tasks might be overwhelming.

• Time Commitment: DIY assembly can take several hours, especially for complex pieces. Consider whether you have the time available or if you need your furniture set up quickly.

• Instructions and Tools: Are you able to follow instructions clearly? Do you have the necessary tools for the job? Missing out on either can lead to an incomplete project.

  
  

Eye-level view of a modern assembled bookshelf.

When to Consider Professional Furniture Assembly

On the flip side, hiring a professional for furniture assembly can take a lot of stress off your shoulders. Professionals typically come equipped with the skills and tools needed for the job. Here are several reasons to consider seeking help:

• Experience: Professionals have often put together hundreds, if not thousands, of furniture items. They understand how to handle different types of furniture, including complicated designs.

• Time-Saving: If your schedule is packed, hiring someone can save you precious hours that you could spend on other responsibilities or relaxing.

• Quality Assurance: Professionals ensure high-quality assembly. If the furniture isn't assembled correctly, it can lead to damage or instability, which professionals can typically avoid.

  
  

Before making a decision, think about whether you can afford the cost associated with hiring a pro. Most assembly services charge a flat fee based on the type and size of the furniture.

High angle view of a professional assembling a sofa.

Does Next Assemble Furniture?

When discussing furniture assembly, many people wonder if specific retailers offer assembly services. For example, does Next, a popular home goods store, provide assembly? Next does not generally offer furniture assembly services directly. However, they often collaborate with third-party assembly companies. This means you can purchase pieces from Next and hire a service to handle assembly, giving you the convenience of professional help while acquiring the furniture you desire.

If you decide to buy from Next and require assembly, you could look for "furniture assembly near me" to find suitable options available in your area.

Tips for a Smooth Furniture Assembly Experience

Whether you choose DIY or professional services, certain tips can help improve your furniture assembly experience:

1. Read Reviews for Professional Services

Before hiring an assembly service, always check online reviews. Testimonials from previous customers can provide insight into the quality of service and reliability of the company. Websites like Yelp or Google Reviews are excellent resources for this.

2. Gather Necessary Information

If you opt for professional assembly, ensure you have all the necessary information ready. This includes:

• Model of the furniture

• Dimensions

• Any additional parts needed, like brackets or tools

  
  

Having this information will assist the professional in preparing for the job.

3. Ensure a Clear Space

Whether you’re assembling furniture yourself or a professional is coming to do it, ensure the space is cleared. Remove any obstacles, move existing furniture, and create a designated area for assembly. This will allow for a safer and more efficient process.

4. Use Online Resources

If you choose to go the DIY route, utilize online resources. Many websites offer detailed assembly instructions, tutorials, and even videos that can walk you through the process step-by-step. These tools can be incredibly helpful for visual learners.

5. Don’t Rush

Taking your time is crucial in ensuring that everything is assembled correctly. Rushing can lead to mistakes, missing bolts, and even damage to furniture. Remember, it’s better to take your time and do it right than to fix mistakes later.

Wide angle view of a living room furnished with stylish furniture.

The Final Decision: DIY vs. Professional Assembly

Deciding between DIY and hiring a professional boils down to your comfort level, budget, and time constraints. If you’re skilled with tools, have time to spare, and want to save money, DIY can be a fulfilling route. Conversely, if you’re short on time or are uneasy about your skills, hiring a professional for assembly can be the best choice.

By assessing your situation in detail, you can make an informed decision. Remember, whether you assemble your furniture yourself or seek out help, the primary goal is to enjoy your new pieces in a comfortable and inviting space.