Hanging Deck
Hanging deck models are wooden swings that are suspended by a porch's roof via rope or metal-linked chains. Many hanging deck models are wooden and have a bench-like appearance that seat two people. The hanging deck porch swing is made of horizontal slats connected to cross-beam supports. "Popular Woodworking" magazine says the best hanging deck swings are models where side beams have no joints. According to the magazine, the degradation of hanging deck swings is largely because of the loosening up of joints after long years of wear and tear.
Hammock Swing
Some homeowners use their porch space for installing a hammock swing. Hammock swings are made from rope and cloth rather than wooden slats or beams. These type of swings allow users to swing while they are sitting up or laying down. "Country Living" magazine lists hammock swings as one of their top ideas for decorating a porch. On porches, a hammock swing's ropes wrap around the porch's beams. Hammock swings usually accommodate one person, but bigger models carry up to two people.
Glider Swing
Unlike other porch swings, glider swings do not suspend in the air with ropes or chains. Glider swings actually glide along the ground and support themselves. One advantage of glider swings is they are easily removed if homeowners need more space on their porch. Homeowners can find wooden, plastic and metal glider swings on the market. Galt Technology recommends the 5-foot Cedar Mission Glider. This glider swing is made from western redwood cedar and features double-dipped oil finish. The 5-foot Cedar Mission Glider is capable of handling up to 500 pounds of weight.
Adirondack Swing
The Adirondack swing has taller seat backs than other hanging swing varieties. Named after New York's mountain range, the concept of the Adirondack swing was realized by Thomas Lee in the early 20th century. Lee created the design as a chair while he was on vacation in the Adirondacks. The manufacturing of Adirondack swings spawned from the original chair idea. "Cottage Link Magazine" says the broad arm rests of Adirondack swing offer an advantage over other types of porch swings. The magazine explains that the armrest is large enough to place your drinks and food.
