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"The porch swing hangs fixed in a morning sun
that bleaches its gray slats, its flowered cushion Even when hanging still on a quiet fall morning, a porch swing can evoke poetic sentiments in its owner. This autumnal quietness and contemplation is one reason why this outdoor icon is so enduringly popular. The other, of course, is the summery side: laughter, conversation, that rhythmic swinging sound which is such a perfect accompaniment to reading—or a hypnotic prelude to afternoon naps. In short, this quintessential outdoor staple is pleasurable in any season. The following information will help you to find the right swing for your spring, summer, fall, and winter. |
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Style, material, and size are the primary attributes to consider when selecting a swing. Some available styles include Adirondack, classic, contemporary, and rustic. Canopy swings are a good choice if you don't have a porch or prefer to sit on your patio, and the canopy offers good UV protection. Painted models offer a good way to add a punch of color to your outdoor area. White is the most popular choice, but there's a rainbow of colors available. Some styles have a rubbed finish for an antique or rugged look. Wood is the most popular material choice. You can leave the wood unfinished, in which case it will turn sun-bleached silver (as in Kooser's poem), or finish or paint the surface. Choose from among cedar, cypress, pine, alder, and cherry. Cedar is popular because of its natural resistance to rot and decay. Alternative materials include wrought iron, rope, wicker, and wood-like recycled plastic, which is very durable and weather-resistant. Seat width can vary from two to six feet.
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If you find yourself without a porch or would prefer to swing in your yard rather than next to the house, a swing-and-stand set is an ideal solution. Sets are also convenient in cases where a porch may be unable to support a heavy hanging swing. Swings with frames combine the carefree joys of childhood swing sets with a grownup's appreciation for durable construction and beautiful design. To help shield from the sun, choose one of our roofed stands or canopy swings. Porches don't always have the space or overhead support for a swing. In such cases, one of our outdoor gliders might be a viable substitute. While cruising on a glider, you can contemplate your garden in comfort or entertain guests on a backyard deck. Choose a 4- to 6-foot wide model or one of our 2-foot wide glider chairs. Available styles include Adirondack, classic, and rustic, with materials ranging from wood and wicker to metal and recycled plastic. |
The selection of hanging chairs at PorchSwings.com includes swing loungers, hammocks, and rope chairs. These chairs are incredibly comfortable and relatively inexpensive. A hanging chair is an excellent choice if you're on a tight budget or have a small patio area. They're even popular choices for dorm rooms and homes. The additional purchase of a hammock hanging kit or stand may be necessary. Make sure to abide by the weight capacity of your hanging chair.
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In addition to our suspensed swings, sets, outdoor gliders, and hanging chairs, we also carry a diverse selection of indoor and outdoor casual furniture, including Adirondack chairs, rocking chairs, patio tables, and settees. Beautiful accent pieces such as cedar planters, wrought iron benches, tete-a-tete furniture sets, and storage benches are available as well. At PorchSwings.com, we're committed to meeting all of your patio furniture needs. If you need a stand for your swing or chair, or pillows and cushions for your outdoor furniture, visit our Stands & Accessories section. This section also includes hanging kits, covers for inclement weather, and specialty products for cleaning and maintaining your investment. |
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Porch swings come in all types of wood. Cedar, cypress, pine, alder, Brazilian cherry, and recycled plastic are a few of the terrific options available. Recycled plastic is not made of lumber but it is used as a replacement.
Fine-grain cedar
Cedar is fine-grain and naturally weather-resistant. The Western Red Cedar contains oils that are natural preservatives and help prevent decay and ward off insects. If maintained with the proper stain and sealants, cedar will last for many years. It is important to stain the swing every year to prevent it from fading and silvering. Cedar will also retain its great fresh scent.
Close grain cypress
Cypress is close grain and dense as well as weather-resistant and virtually indestructible. It is often used in construction for items such as beams, decks, siding, and so on. This type of timber contains oil—called "cypressine"—which acts as a natural preservative, discourages decay, and repels insects. Cypress too will last for many years to come. In addition, it is great for painting; it will hold paint much longer than other types of wood. If you decide not to paint it, it is best that you seal it with an oil-based stain each year.
Soft pine
Many porch swings are constructed from pine. Pine is a soft, lightweight, yellowish timber with brown knots. It is great for staining and needs to be stained and sealed each year. Pressure Treated Pine is perfect for use outdoors because it will not decay or rot.
Tight grained alder
Alder is tight-grained and sturdy. It is often used to make beautiful furniture because of its great ability to be painted. Alder can also be exposed to many kids of moisture without rotting or decaying. Alder is preferred by many because it will give you the appearance of expensive and high-quality wood without the high price.
Brazilian cherry or Jatoba
Found in South America, Brazilian Cherry, or Jatoba, is a hard wood. Its density makes it difficult to manufacture without the application of advanced techniques. Brazilian cherry has only recently become popular in the construction of outdoor furniture and goods. It’s very weather resistant and therefore widely used for things such as railroad ties, decks, and playground equipment.
Durable recycled plastic
Recycled plastic is recycled polymer and is extremely durable. It is made to have the appearance and feel of wood without the added maintenance. This material is simple to clean. It’s great because it won't chip, crack, or warp. Over 500 plastic milk jugs are used in the construction of just one swing! Recycled plastic will last forever.
Porch swings are constructed of many different beautiful and durable wood types. The choice depends on your preference and where you want to use your swing. Any of the above mentioned options are great and will last you from season to season for many years.
