Want to swing your afternoon away in the warm breeze? Here's how to set up your porch swing in no time.
Time 1 - 2 hours
ComplexityBeginner
CostAround $40
Introduction
You've just finished building or buying a porch swing. Now it's time to hang it. Follow this guide to do it right.
Are you ready to elevate your outdoor space and create the perfect spot for backyard relaxation? Look no further than a porch swing! Hanging one may seem daunting, but with our step-by-step guide you’ll have your swing up in no time. Let’s get started!
Tools Required
- Bolt cutter (to cut the chain)
- Drill bits
- Drill/driver
- Screwdriver or length of pipe
Materials Required
- 2 - 3/8-in. eyescrews
- 3/16" welded zinc plated chain
- 8 - 2-1/4-in. quick links
Project step-by-step (5)
Step 1
Prop the swing
Set the porch swing near the space you’d like to hang it and prop it up so it sits at a comfortable angle. I like to use the arm rests as a guide. If they’re just about parallel with the ground, it should be at a comfortable sitting angle. Don’t worry if it’s not quite right after you hang it; it can be adjusted.
Step 2
Porch swing chains
Traditionally, front porch swings are fastened on both sides with the chain toward the front of the swing and near the back.
With around three foot of chain, attach each end to these points using a pair of quick links. Then, with the chair still propped up, pull this chain upward and taught without tipping the chair to find its balancing point. Then attach a third quick link. Repeat this on both sides of the swing.
Pro tip: Use the exact same length of chain on both sides. Count how many links are on each side of the third quick link to make sure both sides are hung in the same position.
Step 3
Porch swing eye bolts
Drill a pilot hole for the 3/8-inch eye screw with a 5/16-inch drill bit. Start the eye screw by hand. Then use a lever, like a screwdriver or length of pipe, through the eye screw to tighten it into the ceiling. Be sure to secure the eye screw into solid framing like a ceiling joist or a beam in a backyard pergola.
Step 4
Hang the swing
Using two longer lengths of chain, connect one end to the third quick link on the lower chain. Now you can hang the swing on the eye screw with another quick link. Adjusting the swing up or down is simple — just remove the chain link from the quick link and hook connect it through a different link in the chain.
Step 5
When to call a pro
Safety is the main objective of this project. If you’re unsure of the stability of your porch structure or your ability to execute these steps, please consult a professional.
