How You Can Hang a Porch Swing

Tap to Read ➤ Mukulika Mukherjee

If you know how to hang a porch swing, you can create a cozy space for yourself where you can spend time lazing around or thinking about that special someone in your life! Sounds great? Just read along to know all about hanging a porch swing.

The porch swing is a symbol of fine living and can be your own gateway to relaxation. Porch swings are mostly made of wood, although you do find swings that are made from metal. Teak wood is mostly preferred but maple, oak, and pine are also chosen. These are strong and resistant against the effects of the elements.

If you want your swing to be colorful, you can paint it in a color of your choice or in one that complements the exteriors of your home. There are many ways in which a swing can be customized. You can choose different designs for the back of the swing and also change its look and feel by throwing in cushions in different colors.

When it comes to dimensions for a porch swing, most people prefer a swing that is around 5 feet long with a seat depth that is anything between 20 to 35 inches.

Before you start with the process of hanging the swing, you must take a few points into consideration. When you purchase a porch swing, it usually comes with a booklet that explains the basic steps to hang the swing and this is what you need to follow.

Not only this, it also comes with the necessary equipment such as a rope or chain and also a hook to hang it from. However, if you're interested in building a porch swing at home, then these instructions on how to hang a porch swing, will come handy.

How to Install a Porch Swing

Materials Required

Hand drill Strong chains Nuts and bolts Hooks Measuring tape

Step 1: Choose the Correct Position

The first step is to decide which is the perfect spot for hanging the swing and for this you need to do some measuring. Ensure that there's at least 3 to 4 feet free space all around the swing to facilitate ease of movement of the swing. There should not be objects of any kind, anywhere within this radius.

The more the open space all around, the better will be your experience on the swing! Another important thing is to look for a solid iron beam overhead to hang your swing from. Remember that you should not hang your swing through holes drilled merely into cement or bricks.

Step 2: Fix the Hooks

Once you have decided the exact position of the swing, the next step is to drill pilot holes into the solid beam above. While drilling holes, make it point that they are slightly farther apart than the length of the swing.

For example, if your swing is 5 feet long, let the holes be 5 feet 2 inch to 5 feet 4 inch apart. This way you'll have a swing that is more comfortable to sit on. Fix the bolts into the holes and check if they are securely fastened.

Step 3: Hang the Swing

Hang the chains of the swing through the overhead hooks and after that attach the chain to both ends of the swing. One question that comes to the mind at this juncture is, how high to hang a porch swing. For this, begin with a height of 17 inches and you can adjust it according to your own comfort and that of your kids.

Tips for Hanging a Porch Swing

So, now that you have an idea about how to hang a porch swing, these simple tips will go a long way in making things easier for you. Just have a look! When choosing a chain for the swing, preferably choose one that is made of rust-resistant galvanized steel.

The length of the swing should be large enough for comfort. If you have friends visiting your place often, choose a swing that comfortably seats three to four people. Before drilling the holes for the overhead hooks, make sure that you have taken the correct measurements.

Don't forget to check the installation carefully before allowing your kids on the swing. To make the swing more comfortable to sit on, try using swing springs.

If you are unable to find the perfect location in the porch, you can always hang your porch swing in the garden. Just get an A-frame to hang your swing or simply hang it from the branch of a tree. So, what are you waiting for? Just fix a porch swing in the porch or your garden and watch the little ones have fun!