The Best Porch Swing

Buying Guide

Is there any piece of furniture that says “lazy Sunday” more effectively than a good porch swing? For hundreds of years, they’ve been a staple on the most inviting porches. They’re beloved by all ages, from grandparents enjoying a morning coffee to toddlers on the lookout for a good swing (and even sleepy pets).

Before you consider buying a porch swing, take a good look at your porch. Size is going to be a big consideration, and you’ll want to make sure the swing isn’t too wide for the space. Once you’ve measured the dimensions of your space, take a look overhead. While most outdoor porches are built with enough support to handle a swing, that isn’t always the case. Look for a load-bearing ceiling beam, and when in doubt, consult with your builders.

Don’t have a secure ceiling or any ceiling at all? You’re not necessarily out of luck. Some swings come with their own support structure, although this type usually requires a little more space. Some types even come with their own covering to protect you from the elements, giving you that porch swing feel without the need for an actual porch.

Next up, take a look at the materials. Ideally, you’re going to want a porch swing that will last as long as the porch itself. Cheap swings might give you a few months of leisure, but they can rot in inclement weather and get unappealing very quickly — or dangerously insecure.

If you live in a California climate, you might be able to make do with some form of softwood like pine or cedar. Swings made from this type of wood can be very comfortable and have a great look to them, but make sure they’re treated with some type of weather-resistant coating. Even light rains can eventually wear down this type of wood.

Hardwood like oak or acacia will give you a classic look while being a bit more resistant to harsh weather. You should still make sure the wood is treated, but these materials will scratch less and are harder to dent. They’re also heavier, making them less prone to move around on high winds. (It may be a concern for hanging on lighter structures, however.) No matter what type of wood you choose, you’ll probably have to re-varnish it periodically to keep up its looks. Check the product specs for proper care procedures.

On the other side of the weight spectrum is wicker. This material has a distinctive look that matches the look of older houses perfectly. Older wicker chairs can be subject to fraying or chipping, but there are newer resin wicker chairs that can stand up to weather and regular use much more effectively. Either way, they’re very light, which makes them ideal for less windy areas or thinner ceilings.

If you’re less concerned about an “authentic” look, recycled plastic chairs offer a very good mix of durability and style. Depending on how well they’re constructed, they can pass for painted wood at a distance, and they’re much more resistant to the elements. In most cases, you can simply wipe them clean with a cloth periodically — no weather treatment required.

Finally, there are metal porch swings made of aluminum or wrought iron. Needless to say, you’ll want to buy cushions for this type of swing if they’re not already provided. For defense against dents and scratching, it’s hard to beat this material, though you may want to go for a bit of extra rust-proofing in especially harsh climates.

Now, what about the size? The default porch swing can handle two people, which means it will be from 3 to 5 feet in length. If space is a concern, there are 2-foot chairs available for solo swinging. If you want to bring the whole family aboard, look for a swing at least 6 feet in length (and a porch with the structure to accommodate it).

• As with any outdoor furniture, maintenance is going to be important. If you hear squeaks or sense any tilting, check for loose bolts or weak links in the support chain. Many hardware stores or swing manufacturers can provide you with replacement materials on both.
• Wood swings will need a little extra TLC. Painted swings can easily be restored with a fresh coat, but make sure its a weather-safe type that will bond to the wood type. Teak, cedar and other softwoods can be treated with sealants that preserve its natural color, but use a treatment that’s designed for your swing. Teak oil and other varnishes that work well for indoor fixtures can hamper the production of natural oils in your wood, making it less resistant to mildew.