It’s a nice, breezy day. A nap might be in your future. You could crash on the couch or bed, but what if you had a nice porch swing? They provide you with another lounging option and boost your curb appeal.
Like anything, they’re more affordable if bought in the offseason. There are also some DIY plans available that aren’t too difficult, and I’ll share some of them. For now, here are 10 porch swings I’ve seen around Long Island.
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Crib Mattress Swing
Homeowners who want a daybed swing but don’t have the space will be happy to know that there is a compromise in the form of a crib mattress swing. They’re compact.
They measure around 60 inches wide and 30 inches deep. So, if your porch is small but you still want a place to snooze on it, this is a great option. The crib mattress serves as the cushioning material (obviously). You’re in luck if you have kids that are moving on to a larger bed. You’ve got what you need on hand. These mattresses aren’t that expensive, though.
For the construction, you’ll need to build a strong wooden frame. Clients have installed these swings in covered porches, three-season rooms, and deck corners that require a smaller swing instead of a full-size one. The weight capacity of your hanging points must be sufficient to support 300 to 400 pounds.
Here’s a nice-looking plan from Plank & Pillow if you’re interested in that route: DIY Crib Mattress Swing.
Porch Daybed
If you do have the space, a daybed swing is an awesome addition to your porch. I would say these swings are not the best for a front porch, though. It’s just an opinion, but they’re often too bulky and can actually undermine your curb appeal. But if you have a screened-in back porch with lots of space, they’re perfect.
Porch daybeds make a statement-making option for those with sufficient space. They are usually twin-sized, but I have seen a queen-sized one (and it was too big, honestly; it swallowed up the space).
Most of these swings are built on a 6-foot by 4-foot platform. The construction of porch daybeds requires more complexity than standard swings because they need robust structural support to handle a minimum weight of 600 to 800 pounds when fully loaded.
The main challenge when building porch daybeds involves designing the hanging system. You’ll need heavy-duty swing hangers rated at 1,000 pounds. As you can imagine, there are numerous blooper-type videos on social media and programs like America’s Funniest Home Videos, where porch swings break or detach from their hangers. That’s why I’m not including a DIY plan for this. If you’re a professional, go for it. Otherwise, it’s risky.
The best placement for these structures exists on deeper porches. You need 8 feet of depth to swing safely without touching railings or walls.
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Classic Porch Swing
There’s a reason why the classic porch swing has been around for more than a century. They just work. They’re practical. We’re talking about that familiar two or three-seater with vertical slats on the back, arms on both sides, and enough room for a couple of people to sit comfortably. Just because the title says “classic,” it doesn’t mean you can’t have a modern take on it. There are several good DIY plans online, like this one.
Most classic swings run about 4 to 5 feet wide and 24 inches deep. The beauty is in the simplicity. Cedar or pressure-treated pine, straightforward joinery, and hardware you can pick up at any decent lumber yard. This is the type of porch swing I see the most.
The classic design also means you can find replacement parts if something breaks. Chain links wear out and bolts corrode in our salty environment, but everything is standard sizing.
Construction-wise, you’re looking at basic carpentry skills. Pocket screws or traditional joinery, a good exterior finish, and proper hanging hardware. The key is getting the proportions right. You should be comfortable with a seat height of around 18 inches and a back angle that allows for leaning.
High-Backed Porch Swing
There are a lot of variations of the classic porch swing. One that came to mind as I was planning for this post was the high-backed swing. If you really want to lounge around, then this is a good way to go.
Your standard porch swing hits you right at the shoulder blades, which is fine for a quick sit, but try reading a book or having a long conversation. Your back’s going to have some things to say the next day. The high-backed versions I recommend usually run 24-30 inches from seat to top — enough to support your head and neck properly.
These swings typically weigh 15 to 20 pounds more than standard versions due to the additional lumber, so make sure your hanging hardware can handle it. Go with 5/16″ lag bolts minimum for high-backs.
The one I’ve seen the most is an Adirondack-style high-back. Consider adding armrests that connect to the back support. It creates a more integrated look and gives you somewhere to rest your coffee cup.
Vintage Glider Chair Swing
Every once in a while, you’ll see a restaurant or business with those old glider chairs from the 50s. Well, you can turn them into a porch swing. I haven’t personally seen one yet around here, but I know there are some homes with the personality and vibe that could pull it off.
These glider chairs from the 1950s exist as suspended versions instead of rocking ones. Their designs are durable. The powder-coated steel and aluminum materials used in modern reproductions withstand coastal weather conditions without developing a discoloration.
There’s not much maintenance you have to do either. The cushions come off easily, so you can store them inside during harsh weather or when the season ends. The frames require periodic cleaning with a hose.
The downside? Weight and comfort. The weight of these items provides stability but makes them difficult to move. And without good cushions, they’re not as comfortable.
Quick Summary
Porch swings not only give you a place to read, rest, and spend time with guests, but they also give your outdoor space a renewed look.
I shared five of my favorite porch swings. From vintage glider chairs turned into swings to crib mattress swings, you should have some good ideas for your porch.
Porch swings can boost your curb appeal and property value, too.
