Upgrade Your Sofa Legs: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide to Freshen Up Your Living Room

You know that moment when you’re sitting in your living room, sipping your coffee, and thinking, "Something feels a bit... off"? Maybe it’s the sofa itself or, more likely, the legs of your old sofa that bother you. Sometimes, we need to let go of the old to make room for the new!

Swapping out your old sofa legs is an effortless DIY upgrade that can instantly lift the look of your whole space. It’s like giving your couch a new pair of shoes, and suddenly it stands taller, looks sharper, and fits the room better.

Whether you’re updating from tired timber legs to sleek metal ones, or just raising your couch a few centimetres to make vacuuming easier (we get it!), this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. And the best part? No tradie required.

What You’ll Need

Tools & Materials:

• New sofa legs from Urban Hardware

• Tape measure

• Screwdriver or drill (depending on your existing fittings)

• Screws (most of our legs include these, but double-check)

• Pencil or chalk for marking

• Spirit level

• Blanket or rug to protect your floor

• A friend to help lift (optional, but highly recommended)

Step 1: Choose Your New Legs

Before anything else, you’ll want to pick the perfect replacement legs. Consider having a "Furniture inspiration board" to make your vision more accessible and imaginable! Think about:

• Height – Want a bit more lift? Measure your current legs and go up or down a few cm depending on your needs.

• Style – From raw oak to matte black steel, your choice of legs can dramatically change the overall aesthetic. Of course, change of fabric is another story!

• Mounting Type – Most sofas use top plate or hanger bolt fittings. If you’re unsure, flip your sofa over and snap a pic and send us a photo here at Urban Hardware, and we'll be happy to help identify it!

Step 2: Prep the Workspace

Clear some space and lay your sofa on its back or side (whatever gives you access to the base without straining your back). Use a rug or blanket to protect the floor and your furniture.

Safety tip: Don’t do this alone if your sofa’s a heavy one. Call a mate to help lift! It’s safer and more fun with company.

Step 3: Remove the Old Legs

Using your screwdriver or drill, unscrew the existing legs. If they’re stuck, try gently twisting them by hand or using a wrench for extra grip. Make sure to keep any old screws or mounting plates! You never know if you’ll need them as a reference.

Step 4: Measure and Mark

Now it’s time to position your new legs. If they align with the old holes, then perfect! If they do not, please indicate where new ones need to be drilled. Use a tape measure to ensure they’re placed evenly and a spirit level to keep things balanced. An uneven sofa is nobody’s friend.

Step 5: Attach the New Legs

Using the screws provided (or your own if needed), attach the new legs carefully. Start with one screw in each leg to check alignment before fully tightening. Once everything’s secure, double-check that all legs are firmly attached and level.

Step 6: Flip & Admire

Turn your sofa upright again—this is where the magic happens. A simple leg swap can make a significant difference. It’s like your sofa went to a spa and came back stylish, refreshed, and ready for compliments!

Safety Tips & Bonus Advice

• Always drill slowly and carefully to avoid splitting wood or damaging the base.

• Keep your tools organised—especially if you’re working around kids or pets.

• Don’t overtighten screws, as doing so can damage the legs or frame.

• Save the old legs! They might come in handy for future projects. 

One project that offers significant value is upgrading your sofa legs. It’s quick, customisable, and instantly elevates your space. Literally and visually!

Ready to find your sofa’s perfect match? Explore our collection of durable, stylish furniture legs at URBAN HARDWARE, and let us help you transform your everyday furniture into something truly yours.

Happy DIYing!