Your home should be a place that welcomes you away from the hustle and bustle of life and your front porch is the gate to that. When the work day is done, and the chaos has settled down, your home is the place you want to be. And out of the more relaxing parts of your home, your front porch can be a top contender with a great swing that just exudes comfort.
If you think about typical outdoor furniture, tables and chairs made for porches can be crafted out of a seemingly endless assortment of materials. Front porch swings are just as varied. To help you understand the value a front porch swing can bring to your home, here’s a little more information about the accessories.
Metal
Metal offers a diverse range of possibilities, in terms of design. Victorian aesthetics are often applied using metal, as the swirls and intricate designs are amplified by the sturdy material and bold finishes of black or vibrant bronze. With this option, you can match your swing’s design with your beautiful ornamental fence.
Wrought iron and steel are common elements used to create metal front porch swings, each worth it’s weight in consideration. Keep in mind that metal is among the heaviest of front porch swing materials, with wrought iron coming in at the top of the list, so your support will need to be strong and sturdy and the chains you use will need to be equally as prepared to bear the weight of your beautiful new swing.
Wicker
More flexible than wood in general, wicker also tends to be higher on the comfort scale, too. Front porches made from wicker typically create a feeling of romanticism of days gone by, bringing a bit of nostalgia to modern day living.
Many contemporary wicker pieces are reinforced with stainless steel metal framing and protected by a durable resin coating, both of which contribute to increasing the longevity of these beautiful pieces. Wicker front porch swings are often ordered in white, paying homage to the original furniture pieces that would have been seen down here in the South many decades ago, but they also look great in any range of colors, neutral or otherwise.
Plastic
In this eco-friendly world that we live in, there’s always an Earth-y alternative to the status quo. Recycled plastic is quickly becoming a popular product where front porch swings are concerned. Generally made from old plastic milk and juice jugs, this type of swing helps to reduce the mountains of material which could otherwise contribute to the masses in landfills.
The end result of the recycling process produces an incredibly sturdy and versatile material from which an endless array of designs can evolve. The end material is called polywood, a material resistant to mold, sun damage, fading, and chipping. The color range runs across the entire rainbow, from completely neutral tones to vibrant and brilliant brights.
Cedar and Other Woods
Cedar is an incredibly hardy wood, making it an excellent option for outdoor furniture. One of the most distinctive things about cedar is the smell. It has the ability to create a peaceful, calming environment that will make your porch the ultimate relaxation spot. Care for cedar is easy; simply applying a coat of cedar oil to the wood and chains from time to time for protection is all it takes.
Swings can be made from any number of woods, though, just like your fence. Cypress, oak, and teak are some other great choices for front porch swing creations. Add a pop of color or stain to make your swing fit right into the decor and become a true part of your home.
Any of these porch swings will be a great investment for your home. Having a great place outside to relax and enjoy nature is sometimes just what the doctor ordered. Match your swing with your fence, your home’s architectural style, or inside decor to truly integrate it into the home of your dreams.
Call on us for more tips and for your fencing needs.