Preferred Height to Hang a Porch Swing

Porch-Swing Height for Able-Bodied Adults

• An easy method of determining the optimal height for suspending a porch swing requires only a comfortable chair and a measuring tape. Find a chair that is at a comfortable height for you or other adults who will be using the porch swing. Measure the distance from the floor to the seating surface of the chair. When you hang the porch swing, use that measurement to determine the distance from the floor of the porch to the seating surface of the swing.

Porch-Swing Height for Elderly Users

• If the porch swing will be used by elderly family members or guests, hanging the swing slightly higher may make it easier to use. Ambulatory seniors who may have diminished strength or joint problems in their hips, knees or spines often find it easier to seat themselves or stand from seating that is higher off the floor.

Considerations for Kids

• If children will be using the porch swing, it should be mounted low enough for accessibility. On the other hand, mounting the porch swing closer to the floor requires longer suspension lines which increases the swing radius. It doesn't take children long to discover the fun potential of a porch swing with a wide swinging arc.

Nearby Structures

• In addition to suspending the porch swing so it is accessible and convenient for its users, the swing's proximity to nearby structures should be considered. The swing should be hung so that nearby walls and porch railings, for example, will not interfere with or pose a danger to users as they use the swing.