Porch Swings

One of the nicest places on earth is right in front of many homes. It is the porch swing. Nothing brings back memories of pleasant days and nights like the soothing comfort of a relaxing swing with family and friends. Best of all, porch swings are very affordable and easy to install.

Adding a porch swing can melt even the grumpiest of people as they bring back thoughts of a more genteel time. You may not know it, but the porch swing became popular during the middle of the 1800's. This was time in history when average people were finding more leisure time to spend with family. The porch swing's popularity was also enhanced because homes of that era were often constructed with large front porches. Add all of this together and the porch swing becomes inevitable.

Today, the styles of porch swings have increased. You can find virtually any type of porch swing that you might imagine. It is true that metal and wicker versions are available, but most porch swings today are wooden. These are often made from teak, cedar, pine, maple, or oak. Plantation teak is a very popular wood for porch swings because it is very strong and rot resistant. This allows it to hold up to the outdoor environments. Teak will also weather beautifully.

 Porch swings that are made of teak or cedar are meant to weather in the elements, turning silvery or dark gray. Other, less expensive wooden swings are meant to be painted, which is exactly what many homeowners prefer as it allows them to complement their porch or exterior trim. For swings that take paint well consider pine, oak, or maple. Each of these can be coated with exterior trim paint or high-gloss porch enamel.

 Generally speaking, porch swing seats come 4 or 5 feet long; they can be contoured or flat. Seat depth varies widely, running from 18 to 36 inches. Since comfort comes down to personal preference, it's a good idea to test-drive a swing before you buy.

 Style differences emerge mainly in the swing's back: It may be squared off or curved, and constructed with horizontal or vertical slats. These slats may be set close together or they may be spaced wide apart. While the peaked back of an Adirondack-style might seem more appropriate for the porch of a clapboard cottage than a brick Georgian, virtually all porch swings can easily be adapted to their surroundings with fabric-covered cushions.

 Why not take a look at some of the many porch swings available today and pick one out for yourself? A good porch swing can being years of relaxation and enjoyment to any home.