When considering a church chair purchase, there are a number of factors to keep in mind. Consider this short list to ensure you get a great ministry facility tool that will serve your congregation for years to come.
- Value. There are many church chair distributors to be found on the Web, and most can offer what appears to be outstanding pricing, but what you may very well get is a cheaply manufactured chair shipped from overseas.
- Selection. It's important to find a chair that not only looks good but can be built to fit your sanctuary. If you can deal directly with the manufacturer as opposed to a distributor, it's easier to get chairs that are made to different widths so that each row in a curved or awkward-shaped configuration will be the same.
- Financing. Looking for a chair manufacturer that will offer financing at reasonable rates can be critical.
- Foam. Like the padding placed under a quality carpet, the foam can determine the lifespan of a chair. You need to find a heavy foam that is comfortable but will stand the test of time.
- Fabric. It's important to consider not only how the color of the fabric matches your decor but also how well it will hold up to extended use. If your sanctuary is used only for one service, an inexpensive fabric might do the trick. However, if you have several services or plan on expanding, it would be cost effective to pay a little more up front for the fabric. Look for chairs that feature fabric of reputable USA fabric mills to ensure quality and consistency in color.
- Frame. The frames on cheap chairs from overseas are manufactured using a process called crush-bending where the tubular steel is bent without any support from inside, thus crushing the steel as it's bent. This weakens the frame. The better option is to look for frames that are manufactured using mandrel bending where a steel insert is placed inside the tubular steel as it's bent. This is not only important for the strength of the chair but also provides a nicely sculpted look instead of the wrinkles caused by crush bending.
- Options. Different finishes on the chair frame are usually available. Look for options such as communion cup holders, bulletin holders and trays for Bibles incorporated into the seat. While most manufacturers offer these options, it can be advantageous to find one that offers lumbar support and wide backs as well.
- Customer Service. Should problems arise or you need to order more of the exact same chair, it's good to know you have someone you can call and get immediate results. USA chair manufacturers are a better bet for quick service.
- Warranty. Look for a manufacturer that offers warranties up to 25 years and is able to dispatch factory technicians if a warranty issue arises.
- Quality. Many of the chairs offered on the Internet at discounted rates are imported. These are often made from substandard materials in locations that don't have the same health and safety regulations as the U.S. does. This can open up the buyer's facility to potential health risks or mean that it will not stand the test of time.
Bruce Prock joined Bertolini as marketing manager in 2001. Having worked for nearly 10 years as a designer, production artist and commercial art/communications consultant, he brings a creative approach to marketing church-seating solutions. To better serve the church, he also draws on his education (MBA, Azusa Pacific University) and nonprofit leadership experience.
Get Spirit-filled content delivered right to your inbox! Click here to subscribe to our newsletter.
Dr. Steve Greene is now sharing stories, teachings, and conversations with guests who lead with love on Love Leads, a new podcast. Listen now.
Dr. Mark Rutland's
National Institute of Christian Leadership (NICL)
The NICL is one of the top leadership training programs in the U.S. taught by Dr. Mark Rutland. If you're the type of leader that likes to have total control over every aspect of your ministry and your future success, the NICL is right for you!
FREE NICL MINI-COURSE - Enroll for 3-hours of training from Dr. Rutland's full leadership course. Experience the NICL and decide if this training is right for you and your team.
Do you feel stuck? Do you feel like you’re not growing? Do you need help from an expert in leadership? There is no other leadership training like the NICL. Gain the leadership skills and confidence you need to lead your church, business or ministry. Get ready to accomplish all of your God-given dreams. CLICK HERE for NICL training dates and details.The NICL Online is an option for any leader with time or schedule constraints. It's also for leaders who want to expedite their training to receive advanced standing for Master Level credit hours. Work through Dr. Rutland's full training from the comfort of your home or ministry at your pace. Learn more about NICL Online. Learn more about NICL Online.
