Active RV Upholstery - 7 Vital Questions to Consider before Replacing RV Furniture

Updating the interior of an RV is a fun and satisfying project. However, just as the creative ideas start swirling, this question pops up: Can you put regular furniture in an RV? While you certainly can, you should ask a few questions before getting started. Residential furniture can certainly work inside an RV, but you may need to research first. Take time to plan and research which pieces of furniture will stand up to the elements, and don't make any impulsive decisions about what you'll need when you travel.
Here are seven vital questions to consider before replacing your RV furniture:

​1. How Much Will It Cost?

You need to be practical about your budget before entertaining any ideas about furniture replacement. If you plan to stay in your RV and don't plan to sell it, you may be better served by replacing your furniture with pieces designed to be RV furniture. The materials and construction of furniture can impact their price. Consider the type of wood and construction techniques in your new furniture when figuring out your budget.

2. How Often Will You Use It?

​While it's fun to think about the new furniture and accessories you can purchase for the RV, you should also consider how practical they will be. If you don't travel very often, you might prefer folding chairs or a coffee table. If you travel frequently, you may want something more sturdy, but bear in mind that bulkier furniture can take up space in your RV.

3. How Big Is Your Space?

Think about your space when you consider the furniture you'd like to purchase. If you have ample room, consider a sofa or loveseat. But if you have little storage space, you may want to stick to foldable furniture.

4. What Is the Weight of the RV Furniture?

Loading a trailer is an essential part of safe towing. It could make the trailer sway on the road if one side of the trailer is too heavy. An imbalanced trailer puts a lot of stress on the axel and tires, which can cause them to blow out.

Before buying new furniture, think about where you are adding and taking away weight. If you're not sure how the weight is distributed, take your trailer to a truck weigh station and get exact measurements.
Beyond imbalancing your trailer, heavy furniture will cost you more over time in gas. It may seem small now, but hauling a heavier trailer across the country can add on a high cost.

​5. Will the Furniture Be In the RV's Slide-Out?

​Some RV's come with a slide-out mechanism that enlarges the living space inside. Slide-out furniture mechanisms are finicky. If they are overburdened with too much weight, they can buckle in the middle. Over time, carrying too much weight down the slide could wear on the
trailer and cause separation, sag, or mechanical failure.

6. Does My Trailer Come with a Warranty?

If you bought an extended warranty with your RV or its original factory warranty remains in effect, consider saving your money before replacing the furniture. More often than not, altering the structure of your RV will void all warranties. So, live with your new RV for a few years before making significant changes.

7. Can I Customize RV Furniture?

If you’re unsure about the look of your furniture, you can always customize it specifically for your RV. Custom RV furniture gives your space a unique look. You can make furniture that fits with your existing decor, add storage space to your customized pieces, or include custom storage compartments for your electronics.

Conclusion

​Hopefully, you'll be pleased with your new interior additions. But you must also meticulously consider the details while you're in the planning stages. This way, you're sure your new furniture
will be the right fit for you and your RV. Your new furniture should make your RV comfortable, functional, and enjoyable to travel in.
If you’re looking for professionally-done custom RV furniture, Active RV Upholstery is one of the Southwest's finest upholstery companies, specializing in furniture repairs, re-upholstery,
refinishing, and much more. In just three simple steps, you can check availability on any of our custom-made products. Contact us today!