Best Outdoor Swing: 6 Best Tips on How to choose it
A porch swing–or a swing bed, as they’re sometimes called–is the perfect place to relax and enjoy your outdoor living space. By choosing the right type of porch swing, you can add an instant touch of style to your home that will make all your neighbors jealous. A stylish homefront can increase the value of the property, making it well worth the investment. And, of course, a porch swing is also a great place to relax outdoors in comfort.
What should you consider when looking for outdoor swings?
After you have considered the practical considerations such as clearance spacing and distance from the wall, then it is time to focus on what material will be best for your climate. If you need heavy-duty porch swings, poly is often a popular choice because of how well it resists different weather conditions. However, there are also aesthetic considerations such as color and style that come into play when choosing a porch swing. You can find swings online that fit any type of vibe–from modern to traditional or even vintage styles!
These factors are important to think about when choosing a porch swing: size, type, and material. By reading this guide, you will be better equipped to make the right decision for your needs.
Tips on buying the perfect outdoor swing
Size
Porch swings aren’t a one-size-fits-all product. You can find them in lengths from 4 feet to 6 feet, or even larger sizes. The most common size of swings is 4-foot and 5-foot swings. The depth of the seat can also vary from as small as 18 inches, up to 46 inches.
To ensure that everyone can enjoy the porch swing, here are the standard sizes and how many people they can accommodate.
2-foot porch swing – holds one person
3-foot porch swing – holds two people
4-foot porch swing – holds two people
5-foot porch swing – holds two or three people
6-foot porch swing – holds three or four people
Before you decide on a swing, make sure to measure the desired hanging area to ensure it can accommodate the size of your planned purchase. To get an idea of how much space you’ll need for your particular swing as well as how far it should be from any wall, you should plan on where’s the perfect spot to put your new swinging chair.
Material
You’ll most likely hang your swing outdoors, so you should take into consideration the climate of where you live when choosing a material. Poly, cedar, and pine are the three main types of materials swings are made from. You could also opt for a metal swing which is usually made of a powder-coated steel frame that will protect itself from the elements.
If you’re going for a classic vintage-style swing for your outdoor space, you can opt for a weathered wood material that’s durable enough to carry you. On the other hand, if you want that chic modern minimalist style of a swing on your patio, you can opt for a hanging egg chair that not just looks cool but also cute and snug.
The porch swing’s weight capacity varies by size and material. For example, some models can hold 250 lbs while others can support up to 800 lbs or more. To be sure, always check with the manufacturer for recommendations specific to your model. As a general rule of thumb, if a 3-person swing comfortably fits 3 people sitting on it then that is likely its maximum load-bearing capacity so adding additional weight would not be recommended.
Price
Prices for porch swings can differ based on three factors: size, material, and type. For example, a poly porch swing will cost more than a wooden one, but it is also more resistant to wear and tear and will last longer. On the other hand, wooden swings often look nicer—for instance, if you want a rustic or farmhouse style for your porch area. Usually, they range from $200 to a little over $1000.
Space
Keep the following measurements in mind when hanging your porch swing: 26-36 inches from the wall, 48 inches behind the swing, and 14-16 inches on both sides of the swings. Also, be sure to install hooks, eye bolts, or screws’ eyes 2-4 inches wider than the length of the swing for even distribution of weight and so chains do not rub against the swing. Lastly, aim to hang your swing at least 17-19 off the ground.
Porch Ceiling
An A-Frame swing is a perfect option if you don’t have either a porch or ceiling to hang your swing from. You can also get a freestanding swing if you’re not sure if your ceiling can support the weight of a porch swing.
All Things Cedar’s 4-foot wood swing and A-frame stand are set to come in many different colors and styles, so you’re bound to find the right one for your backyard. The lovely A-Frame swing stand can be bought on its own or along with the swingset, depending on what you need. It’s made of high-quality red cedar wood and zinc-plated hardware that won’t rust over time.
Cushions
Add the finishing touch to your porch swing by adding a porch swing seat cushion and pillows. There are tons of outdoor swing cushion covers and outdoor swing pillow options available, giving you plenty of choices to add a pop of color or pattern to your outdoor space. You can choose from outdoor fabrics that are UV-resistant, waterproof, and weather-resistant to ensure that your outdoor swing cushion stays looking great for years to come.
Wrap up
The first place to look would be your local outdoor furniture stores. You can see what style is most comfortable for you and suitable for your porch. But don’t hurry to purchase your swings in local shops. After you find a general style you like, check online furniture stores and compare prices. Many sites sell discounted garden furniture and usually, you can get a good deal when you buy your wooden porch swings online.
Keep in mind that outdoor swings made of real wood are usually more expensive than the ones made of other materials. So, if you want a sturdy outdoor swing that will last for many years, consider investing in a quality outdoor swing. With proper maintenance and care, your outdoor swing will be a beautiful addition to your outdoor space for years to come!
You might also consider our list of outdoor swivel chairs if you want for more great outdoor furniture ideas!
