10 Best Porch Swings and Buying Guide

Top Rated Porch Swings

Porch Swing Buyers Guide 

Thinking of a good way to relax and chill without necessarily leaving the comfort of your home? A porch swing will give you all the comfort you need. Aside from its comfort, it also gives your porch an outstanding look. If you’re thinking about getting one but don’t know what to look out for, you’ve come to the right place.

This article will help you choose the best porch swing for your space and preferences.

Investing in a Porch Swing – Is It Necessary?

Owning a porch swing offers great benefits you may not know of. With the increasing social media addiction, spending time with family and friends is almost impossible. However, you can have a fun-filled family time with a porch swing. Since a swing is naturally designed for fun, having family and friends on the porch swing is a good way to bond.

Are you having a stressful day? Well, just like rocking chairs, porch swings are great for relieving stress. Its outdoor positioning allows you to breathe fresh air and clear your mind. Asides from being fun-filled and promoting comfort and relaxation, porch swings beautify your environment. Most of them have outstanding decorative features that add life and beauty to your space.

Factors to Consider Before Buying a Porch Swing

We have outlined some key factors that will guide your choice of porch swings. Read on to find out more. 

What Type of Porch Swing Would It Be?

 Porch swings come in different types and designs. Knowing the types helps you identify which is best for your porch.

Classic Porch Swing 

The classic swing is for you if you would love a porch swing with a natural finish. Its native design would give your surroundings a simple yet classic look. It is mostly made of wood but can also be found in metal designs. This porch swing has a straight armrest and slated back, which gives extra comfort.

Umbrella Swing 

If your porch doesn’t have enough shade to protect you from direct sunlight and rainfall, then you should consider the umbrella porch swing. This kind of porch swing is usually movable, so it can be removed from the porch when necessary. It is portable and comfortable to use. And it comes with a stand, so you won’t have to mount it directly on your porch.

Log Porch Swing

Log porch swings are made of wood. They give your porch a rustic cabin look. Their straight armrest and slated backrest are perfect for comfort and relaxation. Feel free to use throw pillows on them for extra comfort and relaxation.

Adirondack Porch Swing 

This porch swing will give your surroundings a contemporary design. It is usually designed with deep seats that are sloppy. Like the log porch swing, you’re guaranteed extra comfort with its slated backrest and straight flat armrest.

Porch Swing Bed

Aside from extra comfort, the porch swing bed adds a touch of luxury to your space. This porch is designed with cushion seats, armrests, and backrests for your convenience. Having an afternoon nap with this swing bed is super relaxing. These porch swings are usually large, accommodating a large number of people. However, you must ensure its installation is sturdy to avoid falling and breaking.

Porch Swings with Stands 

Most porches don’t have the requirements to install a swing. In such instances, you can opt for a porch swing that comes with its stand. These swings are easier to manage and can be moved to any desired location. Additionally, their stand makes it possible to use them anywhere.

Porch Swing with Foldable Back And Armrest 

Are you trying to save some porch space with a porch swing? Saving space is easy with a porch swing with foldable arms and backrests. When not in use, the backrest and armrest are simply folded. Moreover, they are much simpler to disassemble and store.

Carrying Capacity 

Porch swings vary in size; hence, carrying capacity should be a feature to look out for. Most porch swings have a height of about 4-5 feet and a depth of about 18-46 inches. The carrying capacity of your porch swing determines the size of the swing you eventually purchase.

Furthermore, before purchasing a porch swing, ensure you look at the dimensions of the swing and compare it to that of your porch. Ascertain that it is not too large or small for your space. You also have to ensure that there is still room to move around after your swing has been installed.

Here are the carry capacities you can choose from;

• 2-foot porch swing: This porch swing is designed to accommodate only one person. So if you live alone and want a porch swing for yourself, then you can opt for this.

• 3-foot porch swing: This can accommodate one to two persons comfortably.

• 4-foot porch swing: The 4-foot porch swing is often confused to accommodate up to three persons. It can only hold two people comfortably.

• 5-foot porch swing: This swing can comfortably contain two to three persons.

• 6-foot porch swing: This swing is designed to take between three to four persons. If you have a large family or you want a porch swing to entertain your friends, then this swing is a great choice.

Pick the Right Material 

The material your porch swing is made of determines its durability. Your location may also affect your porch swing choice. A plastic porch swing is best for you if you are in an area with very harsh weather conditions. However, this plastic should be recyclable to ensure it is safe for both you and the environment.

Plastics are durable and weather resistant; they are naturally waterproof and UV ray resistant. They can be used in any weather condition; however, ensure you opt for those with fade-resistant features. This is because constant exposure to harsh weather conditions can make this plastic look faded and worn out.

Most porch swings are made of wood which isn’t a problem. Since most porches have shades, the chances of a wooden porch swing getting bad over bad weather conditions are minimal. However, if your porch isn’t properly shaded, you can opt for wooden swings that are rot-resistant and waterproof. This is because if your wooden swing isn’t rot-resistant, it can get damaged when it comes in contact with inclement weather.

Metal is an excellent choice as they are durable and sturdy, although heavy. However, if you want a metal porch swing, look out for those made of aluminum. Aluminum swings are lightweight and easier to move around. In addition, it’s essential to look out for those with rust and corrosion-resistant features.

Installation Process: Rope or Chains? 

Porch swings that do not come with their stand can be installed either using a rope or a chain. So, which should you opt for?

Using ropes for installing your swing is fine. Most swings are installed with cords. However, ropes are ideal for lighter swing weights. It is used for a 2-foot and 3-foot porch swing. Regarding weightier swings like the bed porch, swing ropes are not advisable.

Chains are stronger and more durable, making them perfect for heavier swing weights. However, chains aren’t versatile enough to suit all designs of porch swings. Ropes are preferable for rustic porch swings; chains will look out of place on them.

Ceiling Installation or Porch Swing with Stand 

Most porches have a ceiling, but the ceiling might not be strong enough to handle a porch swing. What do you do then?

Interestingly, some swings don’t require ceiling installation; these are usually called free-standing swings or A-frame swings. They can stand on their own, and the good thing is you don’t have to damage your ceiling during installation.

The A-frame swings are movable and easier to assemble. Chances of rope or chain getting damaged and causing injuries are greatly minimized with free-standing swings.

Additionally, you should confirm that the number of hooks required to suspend your swing from your porch will fit. To properly suspend most swings, two to four hook points are needed. However, choosing the four hook suspensions is advised since they’ve better chances to be firm.

Conclusion

Porch swings are great additions to your porch; they promote relaxation and fun. To purchase a durable porch swing, you have to pay attention to the type of materials it is made of. Also, consider the size, design, and installation procedure. Although plastic porch swings are easier to use because they are weather-resistant, a wooden and metal porch swing with a water-resistant feature will work perfectly in the rainy seasons.