You don't need a lot of hardware to install a new porch swing.
A porch swing is a good do-it-yourself project that will provide you with years of enjoyment on your home's front porch as you sway back and forth with family, friends and loved ones. You can go to any home improvement store and find a variety of swings that match all types of home décor but you'll need more than the swing to get yourself up and running. You have to get some hardware to hang the swing with, and it takes specific items to get it done correctly so your swing is sturdy and safe. Does this Spark an idea?
Eye Bolts and Nuts
First you'll need a sturdy place to attach the swing to the ceiling of the porch. If you have exposed joists this will be easier but you may need to cut out a section to reach the joists to make it as strong as you can. Depending on your home design, you could have other options to attach the swing to. Regardless of the location of your connection, you will need machine-threaded eyebolts to secure the swing. You'll need to predrill holes for the bolts to prevent splitting of wood joists. Six-inch eyebolts should do the trick. Nuts will also be needed to secure the bolts and a connector and matching nuts may be necessary to lengthen the connection.
Hooks
Instead of using eyebolts, you may opt for screw-in hooks to fasten the swing to the ceiling. The same size hardware would be useful in completing this task. The main difference is that the eyehooks are not as easy to hang and remove the lower parts of the assembly from, but they may be more secure.
Chains or Rope
Most people choose a metal chain to hang the swing from because of its strength, but some may choose to use a rope for aesthetic purposes. Either can work. A porch swing chain should be made of stainless or galvanized steel. If you choose to go with a rope, it will work fine as long as you use marine-grade braided rope made of nylon or polyester. You will also need to keep an eye on rope swings to ensure there is no damage to the rope material.
Comfort Springs
Some people may choose to add an optional piece of hardware to their new porch swing. Comfort springs are metal springs with hooks on each end that attach to the eyebolts or hooks at the ceiling and have another set of hooks at the bottom to attach to the chain. Installing this extra hardware will make the swing more bouncy and make swinging very smooth.
Tags: porch swing, attach swing, hang swing, people choose, swing ceiling, will also