How To Choose The Best Porch Swing Material?

Choosing a porch swing material that fits your needs is more important than you think. It is not as simple as, *insert random hard material, add cushions*. So, don’t be taken in by the first swing you set your beautiful eyes on because a preemptive choice can leave your body aching and your wallet hurting. Figuring out the right material for you is a must.

Choosing a porch swing material that fits your needs is more important than you think. It is not as simple as, *insert random hard material, add cushions*. So, don’t be taken in by the first swing you set your beautiful eyes on because a preemptive choice can leave your body aching and your wallet hurting. Figuring out the right material for you is a must.

There are several materials that porch swings can be built from, such as; Natural Wood, Metal, Poly, and Wicker. Take a minute from your busy day and learn about your options with our quick guide designed to help you pick the right material today.

 

Wooden Porch Swings

As you probably expect, natural wooden porch swings are available in just about as many hardwood materials as there are different types of trees. However, we will cover the most popular types of wood used by manufacturers, which are:

• Cedar
• Cypress
• Oak
• Pine (Treated)

Natural hardwood is resilient to water damage, decay, and insects, which means your swing last longer and require less maintenance over its lifetime.

Cedar is for those of you who want beauty in your swing. The ability to hold a range of finishes, including dark and light stains, and the ability to hold light paint makes cedar the ideal choice for an attractive swing. Its crisp, rich tonal colors and properties make for eye-catching pieces. Cedar is also eco-friendly due to it being bio-degradable and by assisting in the removal of greenhouse gasses.

Cypress is great for those of you who are looking for a natural wood porch swing that can survive in humidity, heat, and extreme rains. The mix of beauty and built-in durability make cypress the ideal candidate for an outdoor swing in places where the weather is a force to be reckoned with.

Oak is known for its resilience and hardness. The dense and durable properties make oak a great choice if your porch swing will need to support larger quantities of weight.

Pine (Treated) is the opposite. Its composition is that of a lighter weight, therefore making it a less expensive option. The yellow, white color combined with brown knots creates the perfect rustic appearance.

 

Metal Porch Swings

The big selling point of metal materials such as iron for porch swings is their durability and modern designs. Thanks to this durability, the swings do not warp or dent from weather and use, do not crack, do not grow mildew, and do not need to be removed in the winter months to avoid weather damage. If you are looking to place you swing once and be done, then a metal porch swing is the option for you.

Be prepared for more assembly requirements in metal porch swings as opposed to wood swings. Have your hammers, screwdrivers, pliers, and wrenches available!

 

Poly Porch Swings

The major benefits of using poly swings lie in helping the environment:In layman’s terms, poly is recycled plastic. Poly is made from high-density polyethylene, UV-inhibited pigment systems, foaming compounds, and selected process additives. Be aware that poly swings are not cheap recycled-plastic swings. They are higher quality and come with a load of benefits.

 

• No trees are consumed in the making of your porch swing
• Loads of plastic is kept out of landfills thanks to your swing
• No harsh chemicals needed! Easily cleaned with soap & water

Other benefits of purchasing recycled plastic swings are:

• Durability & Resistance to almost anything nature can throw at it
• Extremely low maintenance
• Resistant to corrosive substances
• Comes in just about every color you can imagine
• Color does not fade
• Have more weight than their cheap, plastic counterparts
• Low cost to purchase

 

Wicker Porch Swings

Choosing wicker as your material brings elegance and grace to your front porch. Impress your neighbors with resin/vinyl material woven in patterns that will leave them breathless.

Major advantages of choose Wicker as your material:

• Elegant style & eye-popping designs
• Lightweight material
• Easy maintenance
• Extreme durability
• Immune to heat
• Available in many colors

Wicker porch swings truly have it all – style, durability, and easy maintenance. While they may be a little pricey, the benefits you gain in style and long-term use far outweigh the cost. The perfect addition for any home and any family.

 

Which Material Is Right For You?

By now you should have the knowledge needed to choose the right porch swing material for your needs – Natural Wood, Metal, Poly, or Wicker. Choose hardwood if you need a natural look that can withstand most anything nature can throw its way with care on your end. Or with a metal porch swing if you need durability and use that will last a life time.  If saving the environment and looking good while you do it is more your style, then go with poly materials. Otherwise, check out wicker materials for beautiful, woven designs that have been around since ancient times.

Now go out there and decorate your home with a porch swing today! Take a look around our shop at the different styles of porch swings.