One of the most important decisions your church will make is choosing the right kind of seating for your sanctuary or other areas. While options include pew seating and theater-style seating, chairs offer the benefit of being portable, and they allow for multiple setups and changes as needed. One you decide on this popular style of church seating, here are some things to consider.

Q: What kinds of chairs are comfortable and have pleasing aesthetics?

A: First are stack chairs. Manufacturers of stack chairs have come a long way over the years in building comfortable and attractive seating. Typically, you will find a range of colors that will be "standard" in stock color choices, and then there usually should be a variety of "custom" fabric or vinyl pattern choices with longer lead times, if you are willing to wait and match your sanctuary colors. Standard color choices typically may arrive in just two to four weeks, while you can expect as much as eight to 10 weeks for your special color requirements. You should also be able to choose from a variety of frame colors, including popular "veined" powder-coated painted colors, which can be quite attractive; they also absorb scratches and wear and tear quite well. There are also many styles from which to choose, such as chapel style, crown back, dome back, and a more standard high or low square back. Cushion thickness can range from one inch to as much as four inches. Thicker padding can be more comfortable, but it may not maintain its plushness as well over time. Make sure to ask about the density of the foam. A 1.5 density or higher should be requested.

Next are folding chairs. While the basic design and functionality of folding chairs have not changed in many years, comfort and design have come full circle. There are many sizes, colors and designs to suit your needs. From the most basic metal folding chair to the most oversized, ergonomically designed, plush folding chair, there are many choices.

Plastic seats and backs are available as well, and you can even buy what's known as a fan back, which provides more comfort and "breathability" for long sitting periods. Many fabric, vinyl and frame choices are available, so don't be afraid to look for what you really want. Of course, standard colors—such as beige, grey, blue, brown and black—will be most readily available and in stock. Some manufacturers or distributors will advertise "In Stock." Always make sure you ask what that means. A good stocking program will allow shipment of your order in a matter of days.

Q: How can we identify features on a chair that indicate that it is strong and built well enough to endure the heavy use in our church for a long time?

A: Four of the main things to look for are: (1) gauge and strength of steel frame, (2) plushness and density of cushion, (3) how parts are connected, and (4) oversized and matching glides and plugs.

Gauge of steel defines the thickness of the steel wall of the tubular frame. The lower the gauge, the thicker and stronger the steel frame. Folding and stacking chair frame gauges typically range from 18-20 gauge. Don't be afraid to insist on specifications provided by the manufacturer indicating 18 gauge. You'll be happy you did!

When it comes to the comfort of the cushion or seat, request a sample to try out. Many dealers and manufacturers will offer free samples for serious buyers of quantities of 100 or more chairs.

When you get that sample, look for how the braces are attached. Riveted leg braces typically outlast welded 3 to 1. Another important feature that provides stability to folding chairs are double hinges linking the front leg to the rear. On welded chairs, make sure welds are neat and strong. Small "tack" welds may not last.

Another important thing that is sometimes overlooked are the floor glides or plugs and rear leg plugs. These should be color matching and built to last. They should not scratch floors. Some manufacturers of folding chairs even offer stability plugs at the top of the rear legs, which keep the chair stable in open position. Alternatively, you'll have a choice of solid plug floor glides on stack chairs or "self-leveling" glides that are great for carpeted or uneven floor surfaces.

Q: Space efficiency is important to us. What products will suit our needs and yet store efficiently with portability?

A: Most quality manufacturers will offer dollies or caddies for space-efficient storage and transport from one area to the next. Many styles are available to accommodate individual facility needs, such as placing chairs horizontal or vertical. Even under-the-stage storage is often available at a price upcharge. Caster wheel options can make a difference, too, regarding ease of portability with dollies. Powder coat paint/durability on your furniture is also a factor for long-term use. Make sure to choose your furniture based on available dolly options to suit your needs.

Q: What about other seating areas within the church?

A: There are many other types of chairs built for different applications available from a variety of manufacturers. Some examples are:

* Plastic High Density Stackable Sled Base Cafeteria Chairs

* PolyShell Stack Chairs for lounge areas

* Stackable Folding Chairs for multi-purpose use

All of these products typically have matching dollies for portability.

Today's manufacturers have responded to market demand with a large array of quality seating solutions. With proper research, you can be very satisfied with your purchase for years to come.

arry Stauber is the president of National Public Seating located in Clifton, New Jersey, www.nationalpublicseating.com