If you have a front or back porch, adding a porch swing is a great way to get more use out of it. If you're in the market for a porch swing, you should look for a high quality, hand built swing that won't fall apart after months outdoors.
At Monarch, all of our furniture, including our collection of porch swings, is made with poly lumber, made with recycled plastic milk jugs.
The Amish are known for their craftsmanship when it comes to furniture, and outdoor furniture is no exception. Read on for our tips on how to craft the perfect summer hangout spot.
Why Get a Porch Swing?
Sitting outside on the porch is one of the best parts about summer! Porch swings, which usually seat up to two people, are a great place to relax and watch the sunset, read a book, or hang out.
If you have a large enough porch, definitely consider getting a swing! They are great for:
- Reading outside at night
- Swinging and catching up with friends
- Enjoying dinner or a snack
- Sunset watching, people watching, and more
If you don’t have a porch but instead have an open space, you can get an A-frame to hang your Amish porch swing from instead.
What Material Should My Porch Swing be Made From?
With porch swings, you have a few options.
Traditional wood is probably the most common option on the market today. Though it has its benefits, traditional wood is prone to cracking and rotting, leading to splinters and a weak frame over time.
Another option for outdoor porch swings is vinyl. Though more durable than wood (if high quality vinyl is used), vinyl porch swings may creak more than other types of porch swings. Further, they tend to collect a film of dust that requires cleaning or pressure washing.
At Monarch, we sell poly porch swings. Poly lumber is a material made with recycled milk jugs. Our composite porch swings last longer and never fade, crack, or rot, unlike wooden swings. We have found that poly is cooler to the touch in the hot, summer months, and is much easier to maintain. Amish carpenters take great care in constructing our poly porch swings, which will last a lifetime.
What Size Porch Swing to Buy?
Of course, it’s important to make sure that the swing you purchase fits the space it’s meant for!
Ideally, your swing should have at least 1 foot of clearance on either side. Thus, if you’re looking for a swing to fill a 7 foot space, try looking for a 5 foot porch swing or smaller.
Also, you’ll want to make sure that your swing has enough room to move back and forth. Try to find a space that can allow the swing to move freely without bumping into a wall or railing. The more space the better, but allow your swing at least a yard or two in both the front and back in order to move freely.
As far as height, we’ve found it best to hang swings between 2 to 3 feet off the ground. Any higher, and you’ll have to jump up to get into the swing, and any lower and your new porch swing might scrape the floor as you swing back and forth. You can easily adjust the height of your swing with the chain that comes included with your purchase.
Choose your Style of Porch Swing
You may be surprised to learn that there are lots of different styles of porch swings!
You’ll want to choose a porch swing that fits your decor style the best. Have a big porch with a few other Adirondack chairs? Try finding a swing that matches your existing furniture. For example, if you have a modern style, look for a porch swing that has a minimal design. If you’re having trouble finding a modern design, look for a classic porch swing that works well in any environment.
Here are a few different styles of outdoor porch swings.
Adirondack Porch Swings
Adirondack porch swings look a lot like their chair counterparts. With a classic design, the Adirondack Porch Swing will fit in almost any space.
High Back Porch Swings
High back porch swings come in a few different variations. High back swings are super comfortable and can make for great spots to spend hours on end.
Wildridge Savannah SwingThe Wildridge Savannah Swing is a simple yet classy high back porch swing. It’s a heavy-duty swing and is extra comfortable, with a gently curved seat for maximum comfort. Its tall back allows you to swing freely and is great for kids as well.
Wildridge’s Signature Swing is a stunning piece of furniture. The style of swing exudes luxury and elegance. It is somewhat more expensive than other outdoor heavy-duty swings, but will last you decades.
Mission Style Porch Swings
Mission style furniture is known for its clean, straight lines, as well as its simple and casual design. You can find mission style furniture in indoor chairs, tables, and desks, as well as in outdoor poly swings. Wildridge’s Mission Swing is perfect for those who are in search of a casual, minimal outdoor porch swing.
How to Maintain your Porch Swing
We recommend using soap and warm water to clean any poly porch swing. With poly swings, you do not need to take the swing down for the winter, as poly lumber is much more durable than traditional wood. Unlike traditional wood swings, poly swings won’t absorb water, meaning the frame won’t be put under stress as water expands into ice during the cold months.
If you decide to go with a traditional wooden swing, we recommend cleaning with soap and water as well. Also, you may want to consider taking your porch swing down for the winter. Outdoor furniture made with traditional wood may crack or splinter in colder months, especially if it gets damp. In order to maintain your outdoor wood furniture, seal or paint it with a fresh coat of paint each spring.
Buy Amish Made Porch Swings
At Monarch, all of our furniture, including our collection of porch swings, is made with poly lumber, made with recycled plastic milk jugs. Instead of ending up in the landfill, these milk jugs make their way into durable, colorful furniture that will last a lifetime.
We believe in only selling high quality products, and all of our furniture is made right here in the U.S.A. Most of our furniture today is made in Amish-based communities in Ohio and Pennsylvania and includes long-lasting manufacturer warranties. We are proud to carry poly manufacturers like Breezesta and Wildridge.