Outdoor Hanging Swing Chairs

Grab a swing for your porch and have fun all day! Delight in the nostalgia it brings every time you swing. Safely tuck in your kids, and thoroughly enjoy the moment.

 

Q1: What are the two main styles of Outdoor Hanging Swing Chairs, and how does each affect the experience?

 

A: Hanging chairs offer distinct designs affecting movement, enclosure, and comfort.

  1. Basket/Egg Chair Style: These chairs have a fixed, pod-like shape, often woven from rattan or resin wicker. They offer a high degree of enclosure, privacy, and full-body support. They typically hang from a single point, allowing them to swing and gently rotate.
  2. Hammock/Macramé Style: These are open seats made of fabric, rope, or macramé. They offer a moreopen, airy feel and are often more portable. They may hang from a single point (rope chair) or two points (hammock style) for a more fixed, swing-like motion.
  • Note: Many basket styles come with a freestanding C-stand or frame, offering great flexibility in placement.

 

Q2: What is the most crucial factor for safe installation, and what is the typical minimum load rating required?

 

A: Safe installation requires extreme vigilance regarding the structural support.

  • Structural Support: Hanging chairsmust be anchored to a robust structural beam (such as a 4x6 beam in a covered patio or pergola). Drywall, ceiling plaster, or non-structural ceiling joists are insufficient and pose a severe hazard.
  • Load Rating: The mounting hardware and the supporting beam should be rated for a minimum dynamic load of 300 to 500 pounds. It accounts for the static weight of the chair and occupant, as well as the dynamic forces generated by swinging or twisting.
  • Hardware: Use heavy-duty, commercial-gradeswing hangers, eye bolts, or rotational swivels that are designed to handle constant stress and motion.

 

Q3: What are the primary material considerations for the chair itself to ensure longevity outdoors?

 

A: The chair material must withstand constant movement, sun, and moisture.

  • Basket/Frame: If woven, useUV-treated synthetic resin wicker (HDPE) over a powder-coated steel or aluminum frame. Natural rattan is not suitable for continuous outdoor exposure and will rot. Aluminum frames are best for rust-free longevity.
  • Cushions: Usesolution-dyed acrylic fabric (Sunbrella, etc.) for the cushions and pillows. The foam core should be quick-drying, open-cell foam to prevent mildew inside the enclosed basket.
  • Rope/Chain: Hanging rope must be a heavy-duty, weather-resistant synthetic fiber. The chain should be galvanized or stainless steel to prevent rust, which could stain the patio surface.

 

Q4: How should a customer determine the optimal height and clearance for a comfortable swing?

 

A: Height and clearance are crucial for the motion and ease of use.

  • Height: The chair should be hung so that the bottom of the seat is approximately 18 to 20 inches off the ground. It allows the user to push off with their feet comfortably and prevents the chair from hanging too low when an occupant is seated.
  • Clearance: Ensure there is at least 3 to 4 feet of open space around the chair (on all sides). It prevents the chair from hitting walls, railings, or other furniture when it swings or rotates.
  • Motion Control: If the chair hangs from a large overhead beam, using a longer chain or rope (rather than a short one) typically provides a smoother, gentler arc.