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How to Build a Porch Swing

Loveleena Rajeev
A porch swing is a fine way to enjoy the outdoors, where one can relax with their feet up and gently sway to and fro. Get to know how to build a porch swing.
Porch swings became popular all across America in the mid-1800s, when people bought houses with huge front yards and built swings; where they spent a lot of leisure time, swinging and enjoying a glass of iced tea or lemonade. They are very popular as leisure furniture in many households.
Although ready-made ones are available in the market, nothing is more enjoyable than making one yourself. You can use the same technique for building smaller sets for children too.

Structure

  • These units can mostly seat up to four people.
  • They are generally five to six feet long and about four to five feet wide.
  • The depth is based on individual requirement, but it tends to vary from 20 to 40 inches.
  • Design and style can be incorporated at the back and arm rest.
  • Some prefer keeping it simple, while others love to get artistic by creating a decorative back and arm rest.
  • While building, one should give priority to comfort in its design.
  • Most of them are made of wood, but metal sets have also become quite popular these days.

Materials Needed
  • Treated lumber boards (Length and width as per need)
  • Rust-proof fasteners
  • Jigsaw
  • Circular saw
  • Hammer
  • Tape measure
  • Electric drills
  • Screws, nuts, and bolts
  • Galvanized chain

Method

  • Take three rectangular 5-feet long and 1-foot wide pieces of wood, and with the electric drill and galvanized wood screws, secure them together in the shape of a big rectangle. This is the seat.
  • Take four or five (depending on the desired length of the back) rectangular pieces (5-feet long and 1-foot wide) and attach them in the same way as for the seat.
  • One can get a ready-made decorative back and arm rest or carve out the design themselves.
  • Assemble the seat and the back frame by securing them together with nuts and bolts at five-inch intervals in between the corners.
  • To build the arm rest, cut two pieces of wood about 1-foot long and another piece 3-feet long.
  • The long pieces are the arm rests, while the shorter ones are their supports.
  • Cut out another set of three wood pieces for the other side.
  • Secure the pieces together, and attach it to the seat.
  • Once this is done, it is time to paint it.
  • Use varnish or paint along with anti-termite treatment for a longer fatigue life.
  • Allow the paint to dry up completely.
  • Determine the position of your swing. This should be done so that while you are seated in it and swaying comfortably, it does not hit a wall and get damaged.
  • Attach two large hooks with the help of screws into the ceiling and beneath the frame (towards the sides of the arm rest).
  • Pass the galvanized chain through the ceiling and the hook, and fasten.
It is important to have a plan for building your own set, before you actually put yourself to the task. There are a few important things one must bear in mind, while undertaking this assignment. Curve out all edges by using a sandpaper.
This must be done to smoothen sharp edges to prevent splinter injuries. Ensure safety measures if operating power tools. Don't leave tools unattended.