I just realized I don't know a thing about fabric protection. All my friends have been advising "make sure you get your fabric protected" - and I don't know what that means or how it is done.

Here are my questions:
Is the fabric itself protected before it goes on the sofa?
We are going to buy H&M. Do they protect the fabric before upholstery or after sofa is completed? Is this an option when ordering?
One friend bought from a local company. She told me that the local furniture company applied the fabric protection. Is this a good route to take? Duane, do you provide fabric protection?
Do customers complete fabric protection themselves? I don't have lots of confidence in my abilities and would prefer a professional do this for me.
What should I expect from fabric protection? Will it repel stains? Make it easier to clean? Protect it from damage from sun?
Does fabric protection change the feel of the upholstery?
Does fabric protection need to be repeated at specific intervals? If so, how often?

I guess that's all for now - see, I don't know a thing about fabric protection!

Thanks.