Types of garden swings
Modern swings are a common attribute of landscape design; According to their functional purpose, they can be divided into the following types:
Hanging swing
Known to everyone since childhood, suspended structures have become more complex; they are often equipped with a comfortable backrest and armrests. Models are available with seats and backs made of metal, wood and rattan. Plastic seats, although they reduce the cost, are less popular due to their low mechanical and thermal strength.
Suspended structures look great under a canopy, on a terrace or in a gazebo. Using hooks, metal chains or ropes, suspended models are mounted on ceilings; This method of fastening fasteners requires periodic maintenance and inspection. You can also use a branch of a fairly strong tree as a crossbar.
Hanging swing on the veranda Source decoor.net
Portable (on supports, standard) swings
Such designs are characterized by mobility; they can be installed anywhere on the site and, if necessary, moved. Small models (swing chairs) are convenient because they are compact and cozy; light varieties woven from rattan will serve as an additional decoration for the garden or terrace.
The disadvantage of such designs is the limited load (most of them are designed for 100-120 kg); they can be used by one adult and a child at the same time. Many hanging swings can be dangerous for small children if left unattended.
Rattan swing chair Source pinterest.com
Baby swing
These models are reduced in size. Since such a structure is intended for active recreation of children, the safety of the restless younger generation comes first. When choosing a children's swing for your dacha, pay attention to its stability and reliability of connecting parts of the structure. Responsible manufacturers use environmentally friendly materials, carefully smooth corners, and equip the seat with adjustable seat belts.
Wooden swing for children Source weller.ru
Family (swing-sofas)
Such models are designed for joint recreation; They come in a variety of sizes, a comfortable wide bench and usually a protective awning. The sofa swing is a massive structure that will require enough space. The advantages of such garden furniture include the following:
- Comfort . The sofa swing is designed for relaxation by the whole family (manufacturers offer options designed for 2-4 people); Most often these are folding models. They are preferable for older family members as they are comfortable and have a limited range of motion.
- Variety of designs . In addition to ordinary sofas, manufacturers offer wide models (swing beds) with a canopy and mosquito net, allowing you to relax comfortably in the fresh air. The swing gazebo is made in the form of an original structure (for example, a Chinese pagoda), inside of which there is a hanging bed for two. Some areas are decorated with forged and carved wooden swings, real works of art.
Metal swing for three people Source yandex.uz
- Accessories . This functional garden furniture can be supplemented with a variety of pillows, a mosquito net, and a cover can be purchased.
- Easy care . Only mattress and pillow covers need periodic washing.
- Mobility . The swing is easily transported from place to place, at the end of summer they are dismantled and hidden until the next season (if it is not a forged version).
The disadvantage of swings is the requirements for the place of their installation - for the structure to be stable, a flat and hard surface is required. Another common problem is improper use, and does not relate to the quality of the swing, but to the way it is used. Reading the instructions and regular inspection will protect them from damage and extend their service life.
Based on the material used, the following models are available:
- Metal . This includes luxury forged models and popular options made from metal pipes of different diameters. Metal swings are durable and stable; they look modern, are equipped with an awning and are designed for significant loads. Forged products are expensive and massive (which makes them difficult to move from place to place).
For stability you need a solid foundation Source ogunstroy.ru
- Wooden (swing benches). These are often premium products that use high-quality wood (often pine or larch). Such models fit harmoniously into any landscape; as a rule, they are produced without pillows. For some models, you can choose the color of the paint and the color of the awning. The disadvantage of wooden swings is their shorter service life (compared to metal models), which can be eliminated with timely maintenance.
- Made from rattan . There are swing chairs (for 1-2 people) and swing gazebos. The frame of such products is made of aluminum or steel pipes, the hanging part is made of artificial rattan. In winter, rattan swing chairs will look impressive on a closed veranda or in the living room of the house.
Garden and terrace swing made of natural pine Source pinterest.ru
See also: Catalog of companies that specialize in garden furniture.
Frame material is the main safety factor
To make the frame, different materials can be used, which have their own pros and cons. But, first of all, the material must guarantee safety.
Plastic is the most inexpensive and lightweight material. It is easy to transport, resistant to moisture and weather conditions. Does not promote the development of microorganisms. The main disadvantages are the possibility of frost damage (there are frost-resistant plastics) and relatively low strength.
Wooden frames look more attractive and natural, and blend harmoniously with the garden area. The wood heats up slightly in the sun and is pleasant to the touch.
Source: kachelikacheli.ru
The material is inferior in strength to metal, but superior to plastic. Afraid of moisture, even with a protective coating. Susceptible to insects. The tree needs to be looked after promptly.
Metal frames are characterized by maximum strength and durability. The design is stable and can withstand high loads.
There are different ways to decorate the material to give a natural look. It is also possible to decorate with forged elements.
Modern three-seater swings with a metal frame can withstand loads of up to 320 kg. But, you need to take into account the cross-section of the pipes of the supporting supports of the structure. Thicker supports can withstand increased loads, but increase the weight of the entire structure. Such swings will not move while swinging, but they are difficult to move around the site.
Choosing a garden swing
The choice of garden swing will be successful if it is made taking into account the following factors:
- Budget . Having determined the amount you are willing to spend on this garden device, you can focus on a narrower segment of offers.
- Manufacturer . You should contact a trusted manufacturer whose build quality is beyond doubt.
- Type and size of structure. Ease of use depends on this; swings can be designed for 1, 2, 3 or 4 people. Pay attention to the height of the seat from the ground (it cannot always be adjusted).
- Frame material . The wear resistance and service life of the product depend on the quality of the wood or whether anti-corrosion treatment of the metal was carried out.
- Maximum (permissible) load . It is indicated in the product description and can reach 300, 500 and 700 kg. It is better to purchase a swing with a safety margin for this parameter.
Seat design
Garden swings are usually equipped with seats in the form of small sofas or armchairs. On such a swing you can relax both sitting and lying down. The base of the seat can be fabric or metal mesh.
Fabric-backed seats are typically found on the most affordable models. They are vulnerable to moisture and are designed for light loads. They gradually wear out and require replacement.
The base made of woven metal mesh is much more reliable, practically does not wear out, and can serve for decades. Withstands almost any load. But such swings must be equipped with a special backing that is laid between the base and the seats themselves.
The backing protects the soft sofa from damage due to contact with the mesh. It will also protect your hand if it slips between the pads.
Soft part
The soft elements of the swing provide much of the comfort and determine the appearance. The following types of materials are used in production:
- Filler for mattresses and pillows . In most cases, the contents are foam rubber or holofiber. Foam rubber is known for its elasticity, hypoallergenicity and good air permeability. The only thing that can ruin the quality of foam rubber is high temperature and humidity. Holofiber is a more expensive alternative to filler, but it also has more advantages. This is an environmentally friendly, elastic, waterproof textile material.
- Mattress covering . Sometimes cotton or polyester is used for covering. Natural material is pleasant to the skin, but absorbs moisture and therefore quickly loses its presentable appearance. The use of polyacrylontrile (Dralon) is considered more practical. This coating easily withstands solar ultraviolet radiation, allows air to pass through and does not become electrified. Another plus is that dralon is easy to wash and dries quickly.
Material of pillows and backrests, covers
Various materials can also be used to fill sofas. Inexpensive models are filled with foam rubber. Its disadvantage is the gradual loss of shape. Sheet foam rubber covered with fabric is a better solution. Its service life is much longer. If necessary, solid foam rubber can be easily replaced.
It is worth choosing models with removable covers. This will allow you to periodically wash them in the washing machine.
At the same time, no special products or tools are needed to clean assembled sofas. There are pillows with two work surfaces. If the lining is already worn out on one side, you can simply turn it over to restore the appearance of the swing.
Useful little things
When buying a swing, you should pay attention to the additional features of a particular model. The little things that can make your stay more comfortable include the following:
- Folding backrest . Such a backrest can have several degrees of freedom. During a tea party or a picnic, the most comfortable position of the backrest is vertical. If you want to rest, you can fold it back.
Sofa swing with folding back Source pinterest.ru
- Locking function . An important detail for most users. Drinking tea when the seat is rocking under you is not an easy task, and often fraught with minor household injuries.
- Anti-mosquito net . Saving on this extremely useful device can nullify hopes for a languid evening rest.
- Shape of the racks . If the structure will be installed on a solid area, you can safely choose classic designs with four legs. If there is soft ground under the swing, pay attention to models with arched legs. Such garden furniture will take a stable position and will not sink into the ground.
- Protective case . Extends service life; it must be purchased separately.
Additional amenities and features
The swing can be equipped with all sorts of additional structures and mechanisms that increase ease of use. Such options include:
- tables. Mounted on side supports and armrests. Suitable for placing books, cups, etc. Armrests can be made of metal or have a soft padding with covering. The second option is more preferable, it is more convenient and safer;
- protection from sun rays. Almost all models of garden swings are equipped with an awning. But keep in mind that with the small weight of the swing, the awning will act as a sail, which can even cause the structure to overturn in windy weather. Therefore, you should not choose the lightest models. The awning itself must be waterproof;
- cape for protection from rain. It is also equipped with most models of garden swings. Allows you to quickly close from the rain. This is not only convenient, but also protects the swing itself from corrosion, as well as damage to the soft seats due to water ingress;
- mosquito net. A very useful accessory, especially in areas with a lot of mosquitoes and other insects. You can purchase a mosquito net separately for almost any swing model. It is better to do this right away so as not to spoil the impression of your vacation.
Choosing an installation location
If you decide to purchase a garden swing for your dacha, then you have already chosen a place where you can install (or hang) them and know who will use them, because:
- If a swing (free-standing by design) is purchased primarily for children , there is no place for it on a stone-lined or paved area.
- If the swing is planned as a place for adults to relax , then, on the contrary, they try to place it on a hard surface. Otherwise, the supports of the structure will inevitably begin to go deeper into the ground.
- A hanging swing on a tree is an option exclusively for children, unless it is a particularly massive tree with strong branches.
- A hanging swing on a terrace with a canopy is the most comfortable relaxation option; covers on pillows and mattresses will be protected from direct sunlight. Sometimes the suspended structure is placed in a glazed veranda, which allows you to enjoy a cozy stay not only in the rainy summer, but also in the winter.
Hanging sofa swing on the veranda Source pinterest.nz
Hanging swing
If we talk about hanging swings, we most often remember this design: ropes on the sides and a seat between them.
When I was a child, we had a rope on bearings, attached to a tree, and the seat was a board carved by my grandfather, which was attached to the rope. But progress does not stand still, and the “flying swing,” beloved by many, has become more comfortable, lighter and more durable. Consider the lightweight Swing suspension seats, which are very popular today. When choosing such a swing, it is worth considering that the maximum load on it should be 120 kg. They can be attached to the ceiling at home (but the ceiling height must be at least 3 m) and outdoors. I saw a similar option: the swing was attached to supports under a canopy (terrace). Swing suspended seats. Photo from the site overhear22.ru
Now many people choose natural materials, so swings made of logs and boards are very popular. If desired, you can make them yourself.
Such swings are easy to make from scrap materials. Photo from the site overhear22.ru Below is a hammock chair suspended directly from a tree or other horizontal support, which creates the effect of floating above the ground without a separate iron support.
The hammock chair can be mounted on trees. Photo from the site yapokupayu.ru
Suspended swings with a futuristic shape will also certainly find their connoisseurs.
Swing of an unusual shape. Photo from negacom.ru
To conclude the topic of hanging swings, I would like to say: whatever swing you choose, the main thing is that they are as safe as possible and, of course, comfortable and easy to use.
How to extend the service life
No matter how simple a swing for a summer house may look, they also need some attention. In order for such garden furniture to function as long as possible, it is recommended to follow a few simple rules:
- Do not exceed the permissible load . Ignoring this important condition will lead to premature wear of the mechanisms and structure frame.
- Avoid shock loads . It is worth knowing that the passport implies a static (distributed) and not a point load. In other words, the swing was not designed for sudden jumps, sitting down and swinging to the sides, even if they are performed by a user suitable for the parameters.
- Do not increase the swing amplitude . One can hardly call a comfortable vacation that ended with the swing overturning.
- Proper care . Information about what and how to clean, wipe and lubricate can be found in the passport or description.
- Protection . Swings of any kind must be protected from moisture. To do this, during bad weather or the absence of the owners, they are covered with a cover or hidden under a canopy. Wooden structures are regularly treated with special impregnation.
A cozy place for an evening relaxation Source stroymix-v.ru
