The Complete Porch Swing Buying Guide

Front porches—and the iconic front porch swing—have a longstanding history in American culture and architecture. While other outdoor living spaces, such as private patios and balconies, have gained in popularity over the past several decades, the porch swing’s versatility has earned it the title of "the seat you can enjoy anywhere" (as long as there’s a structure to support it). Whether you’re waving to the neighbors from the porch or enjoying a glass of wine out back, an outdoor swing is a cozy perch for well-deserved R&R at home.

But there are a few considerations to make before you buy, from the practical (think materials, measurements, and installation) to the actual style and add-on accessories. Deciding what’s most important to you is a good place to begin, and from there you can further whittle down the types of porch swings you’re looking for.

• Durability: How well will the materials hold up when exposed to the elements?
• Maintenance: Are the materials easy to keep clean and pristine?
• Appearance: How will the material look over time? 
• Design: Does the swing work well with the current style of your outdoor space?
• Comfort: Is the swing designed with contoured seats or cushions?
• Weight: How easy is it to move or install the furniture, and can it withstand strong wind gusts?
• Price: How much value (i.e., frequency and years of use) will you get from the swing?
• Size: How many people do you want to accommodate?
• Structural support: Do you have the ceiling joists or architectural beams required for proper installation? If not, do you have a flat surface that can be used for a freestanding swing?

• Aluminum & steel: Durable and resistant to rust, an aluminum or steel frame is a solid choice for outdoor furniture. These metals can be left outside year-round but may get uncomfortably hot on warm, sunny days. Some designs are constructed of lightweight hollow tubing, which makes installation easy but leaves your outdoor porch swing vulnerable to strong wind gusts.
• Wrought iron: A traditional choice for patio furniture, wrought iron is beloved for its elegant appearance. This material is susceptible to rust, so it will require a good deal of maintenance. Wrought iron porch swings are also heavy, which could make installation challenging.
• Softwood: Some outdoor seating is made of western red cedar, pine, or other softwoods, which are abundant and typically inexpensive. They don’t tend to weather well and will need to be restained or revarnished on a semi-regular basis. It’s recommended to cover them during inclement weather or when not in use.
• Hardwood: Solid hardwood, like teak, oak, and acacia, is a better choice than softwood for well-crafted, enduring outdoor furniture. While relatively resilient to the elements, your wood porch swing must be regularly maintained and covered to look its best. 
• Wicker: Wicker furniture refers to the weaving process, not a single material. Natural materials like willow, bamboo, and rattan are popular choices, but they don’t bode well in inclement weather. Resin wicker, also known as all-weather wicker, is superior for outdoor applications. Keep in mind that the weave results in deep grooves, which can be hard to clean.
• High-density polyethylene (HDPE) lumber: Ultradurable, versatile, and low-maintenance, we believe HDPE is the best material for outdoor seating. It’s fadeproof, weather-resistant, and easy to clean. This hefty lumber can be more expensive than other materials, but many believe the durability, longevity, and sustainability offset the overall cost.

Width: Smaller seats typically range between 2–4 feet long, making them comfortable enough for 1–2 adults. If you entertain often, have many family members, or prefer to lay down while reading, look for a large seat that’s 5–7 feet long.

Depth: Referring to the distance between the front and back of the seat, swing depth varies greatly (approximately 18–36 inches). What you choose should be determined by your desired comfort levels, available space, and family members' heights. The deeper the seat, the better for taller folks and nap-taking.

Now that you’ve narrowed down the best materials and size for your space, it’s time to talk swing styles.

Similar to traditional styles but with extra seat depth and comfortable cushions for all-day hangs.

Once you’ve checked off all the other steps, you can decide the hue of your new swing. Here are some popular color choices: