How to Repair Sling Patio Chairs
Sling chairs are durable. Therefore, they are excellent for outside use. However, if they are not properly maintained they will often need repair. Although it is difficult, if not impossible, to repair an old sling replacement can be fairly easy. Here's how to do it.
Supplies
- Replacement sling
- Utility knife
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Pop the caps off the ends of the rail with a pair of pliers. Be careful of the caps depending on their age--they may be cracked or brittle.
- Use the utility knife to slice the old fabric sling down the center.
- Remove the old sling fabric by taking out the bolts that hold the sling rail.
- Pull the rails themselves off of the chair frame.
- Lay the rails out making sure to note which is top and which is bottom.
- Pull the sling spine out of the rail with your screwdriver along the top and bottom rail. Continue until they are pried loose.
- Put the sling spines along the replacement sling fabric's edge. Install the spine through side holes of the sling.
- Insert the spines with the replacement fabric back into the sling rails. Place the rails back on the chair.
- Put the bolts back into the rails, but make any adjustments to the sling fabric before tightening the bolts.
- Center the rails back into the chair frame with the pliers. Tighten the bolts.
- Cut off any fabric that might be hanging over the rail.
- Replace the end caps.
Remember, it is a good idea to replace the slings at least once every five years. This is especially important if the chairs are exposed to direct sun light for they can deteriorate the fabric. It is also recommended, if the chairs are a set, to replace all the slings at the same time so they match.