Sectional Sofa Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right One

A sectional sofa is one of the best ways to add seating, comfort and style to a living room. But with so many shapes, sizes and features, choosing the right one takes a little planning. Here's how to find the perfect sectional at Roberts Furniture & Mattress.

1. Measure your space first

Before anything else, measure the room — length, width, and the path to the room (doorways, hallways, stairs). Sketch where the sectional will sit and leave at least 18 inches for walkways. Knowing your dimensions prevents the most common mistake: buying a sectional that's too big to fit or too small to anchor the room.

2. Choose a configuration

Sectionals come in several layouts:

• L-shaped — the most popular; fits naturally into a corner.
• U-shaped — maximum seating for large families and media rooms.
• Chaise sectional — one end extends into a lounge for stretching out.
• Modular — separate pieces you can rearrange any time.

Pay attention to "LAF" (left-arm facing) and "RAF" (right-arm facing) — this describes which side the chaise or arm is on when you face the sofa. Picture where the long side should go before you order.

3. Decide on reclining and sleeper features

Want to kick back? Power reclining sectionals add motorized comfort at the touch of a button. Need a spot for overnight guests? A sleeper sectional hides a pull-out bed. Both are great options — just remember reclining models need extra clearance from the wall (or choose a "zero-wall" design).

4. Leather or fabric?

Leather is durable, easy to wipe down and ages beautifully. Fabric offers more colors, textures and a softer feel. Homes with kids and pets often prefer performance fabrics or leather for easy cleaning. (See our full leather vs fabric guide to decide.)

5. Don't forget color and care

Neutral tones — gray, beige, ivory — are versatile and timeless, while bold colors make a statement. Ask about stain-resistant performance fabrics if your sectional will see heavy use.

See sectionals in person in Hampton Roads

The best way to choose a sectional is to sit on it. Visit any of our five Hampton Roads showrooms — Yorktown, Williamsburg, Newport News, Hampton and Suffolk — to compare comfort and configurations. We offer same-week local delivery and 12-month financing. Shop all sectionals to get started.