Articles & notes
Spotting solid frames in marketplace photos
Quick cues we rely on to separate sturdy frames from flimsy builds before driving to inspect.
InspectionDue diligenceFrames
Look for seat deck support: visible webbing with sagging lines is a flag; crisp decking or sinuous wire that isn’t drooping is a good sign.
Tight, even seams and aligned piping usually indicate better craftsmanship than wavy stitching or rounded, saggy corners.
Leg construction tells you a lot: screwed-in block legs without corner bracing are weaker than integrated legs or well-braced corner blocks.
Ask for a straight-on back photo—lean or twist often means a rack in the frame. If the seller won’t share, assume risk.
Takeaways
- Deck support and stitching reveal build quality fast.
- Corner blocks and leg design hint at longevity.
- Ask for back/underside photos; skipping them is a red flag.
Resources
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