Porch swings became popular during the days before air conditioning and electric fans were available to help keep people cool in the summer. Swinging offered a way to create a breeze with little effort on a hot day. These simple pieces of furniture also provided a gently relaxing, repetitive motion and created the perfect atmosphere for a little old fashioned courtship.

 

Recently, porch swings have staged a trendy come back as a way to enhance the residential outdoor living experience. Rustic cedar or cypress, wrought iron, and wicker are traditional materials. However, faux wood is also a popular choice since plastic is impervious to insects and rot. Canvas is another option for seat and back material and is available in fabrics that can withstand the moisture, heat, and sun of a typical Dallas summer.

 

Want more information on creating an ideal Dallas outdoor living space? Contact us anytime with our online form or call during business hours.

 

Porch Swing Installation Tips

 

Front porches, back patios, and covered gazebos are all good locations for a swing. Some models are free standing; but most need to be screwed into a sturdy overhead beam. Installation is fairly simple making this a great DIY project that can often be completed in less than an hour.

 

Plan to leave at least 3’ of space behind the swing so it won’t bump into anything. Install the eye bolts a couple of inches further apart than the width of the swing for proper weight distribution. Choose chain covers or coated chains to minimize the risk of pinched fingers.

 

Gliders are the New Swing

 

Patio gliders offer an even smoother movement than swings and don’t require any overhead support. They are often luxuriously upholstered for an enhanced outdoor living experience. Some models come with an overhead canopy to block the sun. There are even padded single person gliders that offer an alternative to a rocking chair. Always check fabric labels for mildew resistance and ease of cleaning so you won’t have to replace the cushions on your glider for many years.

 

If you buy a wood glider, be prepared to paint or seal it to keep it in good condition. Look for metal furnishings that are powder coated for the greatest level of corrosion resistance. Parents of small children should choose glider models that include safety features such as coverings over moving parts. For an attractive and environmentally friendly option, look into recycled polywood materials.

 

General Maintenance

 

Create a way to secure your porch swing or glider in place when it’s not in use. This will keep it from moving and becoming damaged in the event of high winds. Check the eyebolts, hooks, or brackets on your swing regularly for signs that they may be working loose from the beam in which they are installed.

 

Lubricate all friction points on the chains where they connect to the arms bolts and ceiling hooks. If you have a glider, lube all the moving parts on the base. WD-40 will loosen components and stop squeaking over the short term. For longer lasting results, use a silicon based lubricant.