Churches have little overhead, but one area that every sanctuary must invest in is seating. Gone are the times when members of the congregation were more than happy to stand up for an entire service.
Now, you must consider the cost of church chairs when:
- Starting a new church;
- Remodeling a church;
In this guide, we’re going to discuss the cost of chairs for church sanctuary, materials that your chair may be made from, and also if you can skip the purchase and simply refurbish your chair.
Contents
What Is the Average Cost of Church Chairs?
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How much does a church chair cost? That depends. Multiple factors must be taken into account to determine how much a chair will cost, such as:
- Open back;
- Arms or no arms;
- Interlinking;
- Materials;
You may spend $80 – $130+ per seat on the chairs that you purchase. Working with a manufacturer directly will offer you the best price and can often help you receive a bulk discount on your purchase. A single chair may cost $130 normally, but when purchased by the dozens, the price can come down 10% – 25%+.
Depending on the manufacturer, you may be able to choose from multiple fabric and color options, too. Sustainability is very important for churches worldwide, and you may have to pay a premium for “going green.”
Warranties are also something to consider, especially when buying hundreds of chairs at a time. Be sure to check the warranty information before making a purchase. Many church chairs come with warranties that cover defects in materials or workmanship for a certain period of time.
Some manufacturers are offering warranties of 10 – 15 years on things such as:
- Foam;
- Fabric;
High-end chairs will have a lifetime warranty on the frame, and this is something that is certainly worth spending more money on.
When purchasing your chairs, we recommend:
- Comparing the pricing of multiple suppliers;
- Discussing any discounts on bulk purchases;
- Inquiring about warranties;
You’ll find that many suppliers are willing to work with you to find a seating option that is perfect for your congregation. Additionally, there may be some seating material options available that you don’t know about. Make sure to have this information from your manufacturer before making them.
What Materials Can a Pew Be Made Of?
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Wooden church pews are less common in new churches than they were in the past. While pews are long-lasting, they do not offer the same comfort and convenience as a chair. These pews weigh a lot, but they’re made out of strong woods, such as:
- Oak;
- Maple;
A mix of oak and maple has been used for pews, too. The mixing of the material allows for lower weight and stronger seating.
However, if you’re creating your own pew with interlocking chairs, you’ll also find a wide range of chair material options. A few of the material options include:
- Foam seating;
- Steel legs and base;
- Multiple fabric options;
If you reach out to the manufacturer, you’re likely to find that they’ll find a material option that works well for you. Often, the manufacturer will have fabric samples that they can send to you to find one that you like.
Vinyl, microfiber, and other materials are all good options for church seating.
Wool is another great option because it resists fading, wrinkling, and pilling. However, you will want to compare each material, its costs, and its own unique benefits to find the right option for you.
Can Chairs Be Refurbished?
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When considering church chairs prices, you must know that refurbishing is often possible. You may have a church that is worn beyond simply the cushioning material, and in this case, you may need to purchase a new chair.
However, there are plenty of pew and chair materials that can be refurbished. For example, you may be able to have your chair’s:
- Legs, back, and seat refurbished;
- Cushioning reupholstered;
Of course, if you have beautiful wooden chairs or pews, you’ll need to talk with a specialist who will alert you to the options you have for your seating. In many cases, the wood can be sanded and stained, but if the wood has been sanded in the past, refurbishing may not be possible.
How to Care for Church Chairs
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Church chairs are important in a church setting. They help to create an atmosphere of worship, and can be used for a variety of purposes. However, like any other piece of furniture, church chairs need to be taken care of in order to maintain their appearance and function. Here are some tips on how to care for church chairs:
Wash the chair with mild soap and water when it begins to get dirty. Be sure to remove any built-up dirt or grease.
If the chair is stained, use a cleaning product specifically designed for stained wood. Do not use bleach, paint remover, or ammonia because they will damage the finish.
Avoid using harsh detergents or disinfectants on your chair. These chemicals can strip the finish off of your chair over time, leaving it looking aged and dull. Instead, use a mild soap or water solution.
Apply a coat of clear sealer to the wood if you want to protect it from weathering and stains. (Some churches may prefer not to seal their chairs as this can add years of beauty.)
If the chair needs new cushions, replace them every three years or when they start looking worn.
In conclusion
If you take good care of your seating, it will provide a comfortable area for your congregation to worship.
Over time, examine your chairs for any sign of serious wear and tear and decide if it’s worth the new church chairs cost or if it’s better to try and refurbish the ones you have. It’s crucial that you invest in the best church chairs if you want people to come and worship. Have a productive worship service that improves the life of your congregation with comfortable, safe, and secure church chairs.
