How to Install a Porch Swing

Put the right swing in the right place. Measure your porch or garden spot for height to support chains and a wide berth for crash-free swinging.

Buy a hanging kit with your swing, but be sure it includes all the galvanized hardware and heavy-duty chain you'll need for your particular swing. To buy your own, read the directions completely, make a list and stick to it when shopping.

Locate an overhead beam (with an 8-foot clearance below it) to install two swing hooks spaced at the width of the swing to hold chains. Drill pilot holes first to prevent wood splitting when screwing in the large hooks needed to hold your swing safely.

Use four chains to hang your swing from its hooks - two chains descend from each hook, one to the front of the swing and one to the back. Seven-foot-long chains hung from a beam 8-feet above the floor will lift the swing 17 inches off the ground for easy on and off.

Build or buy a frame for your swing if no porch is handy. Put tubular frames anywhere in the garden, but build an arbor/swing frame in enough sun for vines to take over and shade it.

Screw all hardware securely into the wood and use chain connectors for safety. Double-check that all hardware is installed before hanging your swing.

Get a friend (or use your ironing board for support) to lift the swing and its harness up to you on a ladder near the beam. Hook the swing in place, adjust the chains evenly and give it a test swing.