Choosing Between A Porch Swing vs A Glider

You're looking for a rocker or swing for your porch. Suddenly a salesman offers you a glider. You've never heard of it, yet you grew up sitting on grandma's lap while she rocked you to sleep in her rocker, or sat with mom and dad on a large porch swing while reading your favorite book. Now, what exactly is a glider?

A glider or platform rocker is a type of rocking chair that moves like a swing seat, where the entire frame consists of a seat attached to the base utilizing a double-rocker four-bar linkage. The non-parallel suspension arms of the tie cause the chair to simulate a rocking-chair motion as it swings back and forth.

On the other hand, porch swings are swinging wooden bench-like seats intended for adults. Its suspension chains are mounted to the porch ceiling, and the seat is typically large enough to seat about three people, with an armrest at opposite ends.

They are an alternative to using rocking chairs or gliders outdoors. Both definitions are from Wikipedia. To simplify the difference between the two, a glider cradles you on the ground while the other does it while suspended on air. Which one do you prefer?

Now that you know the difference between a porch swing and a glider, the next question is how to choose the right furniture for your home. Take a look at some of the bench glider's advantages to see if you should get one for your porch.

Advantages of a Porch Glider

#1 Gliders don't consume space

Unlike a wooden or metal chair swing wherein you have to leave space behind, and in front of it, a glider has fixed dimensions for its movement. It's predetermined how much space you need to accommodate it. Furthermore, you don't need to find a place to hang it.

#2 It doesn't leave marks

Unlike rocking chairs, when you sit on a porch glider, its base stays in place. Rocking chairs tend to move around the place a lot, and the rocking motion tends to scrape floors. This is especially obvious in tiled or hardwood floors.

#3 It's safer than rockers

Rockers tend to move fast and topple over, causing accidents. While adults may have more sense to be careful, little children may have frequent accidents with rockers. A glider stays on its base and slides smoothly and efficiently, making it safe for everyone. There is also no fear of little hands that might get caught by chair rockers.

#4 It comes in a variety of styles

 

While the rocker may have won the hearts of many stylish homeowners, the porch glider has evolved into a stylish and functional addition to any outdoor spaces. These days, there are cushioned porch gliders that make the experience more relaxing.

There are also glider benches that can comfortably seat two to three people and porch gliders that come in pairs for the whole family. Some porch gliders also come with canopies for protection against the sun rays, and some even have built-in tables or armrests with cup holes for refreshments. 

Some porch gliders have adjustable backrests for added comfort and convenience, while some have ottomans with built-in footstools for nursing mothers.

Glider or swing?

While there are many advantages to owning a bench glider, it might not appeal to everyone. Weighing out the pros and cons of each outdoor furniture might help you make a wise decision on what type of furniture that suits you best.