Porch Swing Frame Ideas

The A-Frame

• An A-frame is the most common kind of movable porch swing frame. This frame resembles the structure that holds up a playground swing set. It can be made from wood or metal, and it is often equipped with a canopy to keep the sun and rain off of those enjoying the swing. It is relatively easy to build.

Permanent Cross-Bar Frame

• For those wanting a more permanent placement for their porch swing, a cross-bar setup provides superior stability and strength. This kind of frame resembles a wide doorway. It is most often made of three pieces of wood. Two thick posts are sunk into the ground and a third post is secured across the top. The swing hangs from the top bar.

  Reinforce the two vertical posts with concrete for added stability. You can grow perennial plants on the cross-bar frame because it does not move from place to place.

Arbor

• A strong arbor can make a beautiful porch swing frame. Be sure to choose an arbor that is reinforced and can bear the weight of two adults. There are many arbor frames created just for swings. Adding lattice to a cross-bar swing frame is one way to achieve this look while ensuring your frame has adequate strength and durability. Morning glories, roses, wisteria and even grape vines can be grown over the arbor to provide shade.

Tree

• Trees can be used as porch swing frames. Porch swings can be secured to strong tree limbs or hooked to a crossbar secured between two trees. Be sure the limb you choose is a living limb at least 8 inches in diameter and it can bear the weight of two adults. Secure the porch swing rope or chain with bolts if possible. If placing a crossbar between two trees to create your frame, be sure the bar or wood post you use is securely seated and can resist forward and backward motion. Secure this post or bar with brackets bolted into the tree in front and back.

Modern metal frame

• Durable metal frames can support your porch swing. These frames look like a rectangle folded in half. One half sits on the ground, while the other half supports the swing. While these frames can be expensive, costing between $750 and $850 in 2010, they are weather-resistant and strong, and they can add a clean, contemporary look to your yard.