Porch Swings: Memorable Evenings With Family and Friends

One of the great things about summer is sitting on the porch in the evening and enjoying the sunset. It is even better if there is a comfortable porch swing to sit on, complete with a padded seat and comfortable pillows to lean against. Add in a glass of lemonade or sweet tea and it is a picture perfect setting.

If your home has a porch large enough to accommodate a swing, there are a few factors to consider when deciding on which swing to purchase.

First, which material to use in building the swing is one of the most important decisions you will make. This will determine what the swing will look like, how strong it will be, and how it will weather the elements. Most swings are made from wood, but some of the more modern ones are now made from polyurethane and even come in different colors.

If you think you would prefer wood, there are several different types of woods to consider. Some of the more practical woods used in making swings are cypress, ash, redwood, western red cedar, and treated pine. The least dense of these woods is western red cedar, so if you decide on this wood, look for at least one inch boards. Another affordable option is treated pine, although pine does have a tendency to warp over the long term. Also, some have concern over chemicals used to treat pine boards.

More exotic woods which make beautiful swings, but which are more expensive are Ipe and teak. These are very heavy woods which adds to the shipping costs, but which makes the swings very sturdy.

There are some woods which it is recommended to avoid when building or buying a swing. These are poplar, untreated yellow pine, and some species of oak. There is a concern that when exposed to the elements, these woods have a tendency to decay.

The next important factor is the thickness of the wood. The wood should be at least 3/4 of an inch to provide enough support for those who will be sitting in the swing. Anything less than this could bow and eventually fail over the long term, especially in the seating area.

The fasteners should ideally be made of exterior hardware, especially if the swing will be used outdoors in coastal or humid areas. Even though this hardware may be more expensive, it will last longer and is more durable than other fastening materials. It also will not rust or discolor like other materials.

The last significant factor to think about is the finish. Acrylic paints are good because the wood can contract and expand as the outside temperature changes without the paint cracking. Oil-based paints and finishes tend to become brittle and as the wood expands and contracts can crack.

Whichever finish you select, ensure it is an exterior finish and remember, a glossy finish is easier to clean. It is also a good idea to select a finish that contains mildew, water, insect, and UV protection. This will really help over the long term and can help prolong the life of the swing.

A porch swing can provide many wonderful evenings relaxing with family and friends. Ensure your swing is made from the best quality products so it will last as long as your memories.

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