In news:ZouTn.2$k15.1@hurricane,
dadiOH spewed forth:
mcp6453 wrote:
My elderly in-laws have a couch that allows you to sink deeply into
it when you sit. Because of their physical infirmities, standing is
difficult. The frame of the couch is in tact. None of the frame is
broken or drooping. The cushions look fine, but I'm sure they have
lost some of their support. My theory is that the springs supporting
the seat cushions are worn.

Springs break. Springs come loose. That's about all that can happen
to them.

The only springs I have ever seen break are no-sags(sinuous wire) and old
copper coils used in antiques.


If the couch was made in the last 50 years or so and is not super
high end the springs are most likely zigger wire ("no sag"). They
attach to clips at the front and back of the frame, the clips can
come loose. They can be fixed but not without taking the upholstery
loose. Those springs are attached so there is a camber.

There are clips made that allow you to repair no-sags from the bottom


The other method is coil springs on a web foundation. The webbing is
usually jute, jute can rot. The individual springs are tied one to
another so they work in unison. The tying can break. Both those can
be fixed as well, should be able to do so from the bottom after
removing the cambric. I doubt they have coil springs though.

I'd like to see someone retie coil springs from the bottom.
It can't be done properly, if at all


______________

The couch is in great condition otherwise, and the in-laws are not
amenable to buying new furniture. Any thoughts?

Easy fix - one I used to do frequently when photographing families at
home - is to put pieces of plywood under the cushions. For them, I
would suggest 1/2 or 3/4. The couch won't be all squishy soft
(better, IMO) but will still be comfortable and they won't sink in
much.