How to Build an Easy Porch Swing
An easy way to add character to your porch and improve your outdoor experience is by installing a porch swing. With a few basic tools and a quick trip to the hardware store you can easily create a beautiful and functional swing that will provde you with pleasure for years to come.
Building an Easy Porch Swing
Items you will need
- Screws: four inch, three inch and two inch wood screws
- Tools: drill, screwdriver, wire cutters, saw
- Eyebolts: two 3/8 of an inch diameter and four inches long and four 3/8 diameter and one inch long
- Lumber: 10 six foot one by four's and three eight-foot two by four's
- two S-hooks
- two lengths of one-half inch chain
1. Decide where to place your swing. Measure from the roof to the porch and subtract 12 inches. Have a hardware store cut your chains to this length.
2. Mark on the roof for the two drill holes six feet apart an equal distance from the edge of your porch. Drill in three inches and place the eyebolts using a screwdriver.
3. Create the seat of the swing: Cut three two-by-fours to match the length of the one-by-fours and attach six one-by-fours to the three two-by-fours on each end and in the center. Do the same with the four one-by-fours which will be the back of the swing.
4. Connect the back of the swing to the base. Cut two two-by-fours to 12 inches to create the armrests and screw them vertically from the back. Six inches from the armrests place two eyebolts. Stain or paint your swing if desired.
5. Suspend your chains from the eyebolts and hang the two S-hooks.