Outdoor Furniture, Patio Furniture and more!

As the snow melts and spring is on the horizon, our imaginations run wild with the potential for creating fun outdoor activities in our own backyards. Why not bring the relaxation of an outdoor furniture favorite, the porch swing onto the branch of your favorite tree? This week we present a “How To” on the perfect tree porch swing that will keep your afternoons tranquil.

Although there are numerous ways to throw a rope over a branch and attach it to a swing, one of the most important things to remember about using nature in your outdoor design is understanding how to respect it. First, make sure you’re working with a live tree’s thick branch (measuring 8” in diameter). You’ll want to be sure the swing can hang approximately three feet from the trunk of the tree itself. If positioned too much further, the branch will feel the stress.

It seems contrary to popular belief, but I recommend using a large eye bolt in the branch as opposed to a rope to hang the swing. However, it is actually better for the tree to receive a bolt drilled into it that it can eventually grow around and thrive with rather than a rope that will end up constricting the life of the tree down the road. That said, use galvanized or stainless steel eye bolts measuring 5/8”. To install them, drill holes into the limb that will comfortably hold the bolts. After you insert the bolts all the way – with the eyes tight against the bark – secure them with a large flat washer and two nuts.

Without harming the tree you adore, hang a porch swing over the riverbank, garden, or grassy lawn of your backyard to infuse some movement into the finale of winter.

Tags: Outdoor Furniture, porch swing, porch swings

If your porch or deck area has future plans for a revamp or it just isn’t living up to its overall potential, don’t let that deter you from outfitting the space. With proper decor that makes it functional and aesthetically pleasing, you may or may not change your mind about its reconstruction altogether. So although I’d say a jacuzzi is never a bad idea, strategically placing a patio swing on your porch is its key to greatness.

One roadblock that many realize after deciding to include a gliding porch swing in their porch design is inadequate hanging space. For these situations, opt for an A-frame porch swing stand. Using an A-frame will let you decide where it belongs among your other chairs or tables, and does not require much more space than the swinging of the hanging version.

Another factor is the view your family will have while relaxing into its gentle motion. If your home is near to neighboring houses, you may choose to face your porch swing away from their windows. (No one wants you to seem like the creepy, swinging folks next door.) If your porch wraps around, or if you have plentiful options, you may want to think about the amount of direct sunlight you’ll receive or which side of your property has the best landscaping views.

Lastly, the placement of your porch swing must logically fit into the perimeters of your porch space. Before choosing on the design, make sure that you have accounted for the 3 feet required behind the porch, and the 6 inches needed on each side. This will make sure your home or porch structure, and the swing itself, are not damaged by strong windy days or the times where you just feel like rocking out.

With these tips, there is no need to fret over the placement of your patio swing. Consider what your space can offer, and use the above tips to imagine where and how it fits into the floor plan of your ideal porch area.

Tags: a-frame porch swing stand, patio swing, porch swing

Though the size, color, and design of your porch swing should reflect your personality, you also want to make sure the material will suit your needs as well. Whether those needs are related to budget, sustainability, weather conditions, or durability, every material used for outdoor furniture and porch swings has its ups and downs. It’s good to know the facts before getting lost in the nearly endless varieties of patio furniture!

Western Red Cedar: The two aspects that cedar is most famous for are its aroma and resistance to decay. The naturally lustrous wood is warm with that rich reddish hue, and the subtly aromatic qualities fill any space it’s used in with a rustic and homey feel. Cedar is also filled with naturally occurring oils that act as preservatives against both decay and insect attack.

Western Red Cedar is also an incredibly affordable material. Though it’s rich in aroma, color, and natural protective oils… you don’t have to be rich to enjoy it.

But, artists beware, if you’re hoping to paint your cedar porch swing in anyway… cedar is not a good choice. It resists paint the same way it resists moisture and becomes incredibly difficult to paint.

Southern Yellow Pine: Pine is one of the most affordable woods out there: if budget is your main concern, pine porch swings may be the best bet for you! It’s also much easier to paint than Red Cedar, so people looking to add their own color and decorative painting to their patio furniture would find pine to be a great option.

It does lacks some of the weather-durability of many other woods. Though incredibly sturdy structurally, it is very susceptible to decay and damage. However, a pressure treatment process creates Pressure Treated Pine that boasts a 30 year warranty against rot, decay, and insect damage.

Grade A Teak: Teak is “grade A” if the tree has reached full maturity to provide the best quality wood. This process takes over 30 years, and only a few countries are able to export this fine and rare wood. Teak, once its achieved “Grade A status,” is one of the strongest woods available.

Teak is absolutely the best hardwood used to manufacture outdoor furniture because it is dense with a tight grain, durable, and has a high content of natural mineral deposits that effectively repel water and moisture. It will absolutely not warp or decay due to changes in temperatures.

Because this wood takes so long to become so great…teak patio furniture will cost you. It is absolutely the best, and it is absolutely the most expensive. Though, like other expensive products, it will last much longer than other materials and will be worth the price of not having to replace it in several years. But, if you’re designing on a tight budget… you might want to look elsewhere.

Polywood: If you’ve made the important and honorable commitment to a greener and more sustainable lifestyle, look no further than Polywood outdoor furniture. Polywood isn’t even actually wood… it’s engineered from polyresins, recycled plastics, and high density polyethylene, and then crafted to look and feel like real wood. Made completely of recycled materials, you will absolutely be doing your part to help the earth by using this material.

Plus, even though it looks, feels, and acts like real wood… it’s not. It requires barely any maintenance at all and will endure all weather conditions. It’s green and low maintenance, but if you’re someone looking for real, through-and-through wood… don’t be fooled by its appearance!

Well, these are the top four competitors for top spot in outdoor furniture materials. There are a lot of other materials out there, but hopefully knowing a little more about four of the most popular will help you make a more informed decision when you’re shopping for this spring’s outdoor décor.

Just like anything, what type of wood is best for you is completely dependent on your lifestyle, budget, and desired uses… so there’s no way for me to tell you exactly what to buy (besides, wouldn’t that take all of the fun out of it?), but at least now you can go into the decision as an expert!

Have Fun!

Hazel

Tags: cedar porch swing, outdoor decor, Outdoor Furniture, patio furniture, pine porch swing, polywood outdoor furniture, porch swing, teak patio furniture

Although you probably wouldn’t size a garden bench to fit the dimensions of your flower bed, your swings for your porch are another story. I’m not suggesting you plant into the floorboards to get around measuring your space, but let’s not underestimate the importance of a suitable garden swing sized perfectly to your porch. If you want to pick the perfect porch swing for your portico- whether its a screened-in, wrap around, or spacious balcony – there are a few guidelines to follow.

Remember that with thoughtful planning, your porch area can be all you’ve dreamed it to be, regardless of the size. But in order to avoid disappointment after deciding on which front porch swing matches the trim on your windows, it’s important to plan ahead. Using a yard stick or tape measure, carefully record the area your future patio swing can occupy. With this information, a calculation of the required space – which is 3 feet behind and 6 inches on either side of its overall size – makes your decision an educated one.

Another criteria is the number of people who might occupy the space. Generally speaking, a garden swing seat should account for 2 feet per person. This number should be adjusted if you want to add extra wiggle room for larger adults (or rowdy kids). If a standard size – typically measuring 4, 6 or 8 feet – does not seem perfect for your porch, many manufacturers for custom sizing.

By taking the proper steps to guarantee that the porch swing of your dreams arrives safely – and fits soundly – it will no sooner rock you to sleep on a warm summer night as it becomes a poignant part of your porch design.

Tags: front porch swing, garden bench, garden swing, patio swing, porch swing

The porch swing is a classic piece of outdoor furniture that is associated with easy living and relaxation.  Today, the humble front porch swing of yesteryear has evolved into a myriad of different styles and options.  With so many types to choose from, there’s sure to be a porch swing for every taste and preference.

Here are some of the most popular types of porch swings that are currently available:

• Swing Beds provide the ultimate in relaxation.  These swings are usually suspended from chains and feature a wider bench that allows one or two people to stretch out and enjoy the gentle rocking motion.  A swing bed is perfect for reading, napping or snuggling.  Offering more structure than a hammock, a swing bed provides full lumbar support.  A front porch, patio, deck or gazebo is a great place to hang a swing bed.

• Face to Face Porch Swings (also known as Dual Porch Swings) are designed to be used by more than one person at a time  Two facing benches and the gentle gliding motion provide the perfect atmosphere for conversation and togetherness.   A face to face porch swing is a real crowd pleaser, especially among children and grandchildren.   Many face to face swings have a roof that will provide shade if the swing is placed in a yard or garden.

• Porch Swings with Stands allow you to enjoy the old-fashioned comfort of a porch swing in any location.  Porch swings with stands can be placed on a patio or deck, in a garden or next to a pool.  This portable swing can be located in the midst of your outdoor activity area or tucked away in a serene corner.  Porch swings with stands are available in many styles and materials and are the most flexible outdoor swing option.

Tags: dual porch swings, face to face porch swing, front porch swing, hammock, Outdoor Furniture, porch swing, porch swing stands, porch swings, porch swings with stands, portable swing, swing bed

There is no symbol more iconic of American pride than the porch swing. It is image echoes a picture of a lazy, hot summer afternoon complete with a freshly squeezed pitcher of lemonade. The cold, thirst-quenching treat is sweating and beads of water roll down the clear container, collecting in a pool below. The floorboards of the porch are swollen from the heat and creak as you creep across them. As you sink yourself into the seat of the swing that hangs from the wooden ceiling, the slight breeze it produces feels like heaven on your sweating skin. You pause to ingest the beautiful scenery of the countryside and you are impressed at the hard work you have done to call this piece of land your own.

That image of a porch swing could be straight out of a Normal Rockwell painting or it could be the reality out on your own farmer’s porch. A beautifully crafted, hardwood swing is as functional as it is attractive. When you order a porch swing of your very own, it often arrives completely assembled and ready to hang.

Each porch swing offers an attractive and comforting addition to your front or back porch. They also add a nice social gathering spot for family and friends. What better way to get the kids to enjoy the great outdoors, especially on a warm summer day. They can laze around enjoying the fresh air, eating popsicles by the fistful. By night, you and your spouse can enjoy a much-deserved peaceful retreat of your own with the light of the moon, the sparks of the fireflies and songs of the crickets.

Now, some of you are feeling slighted because you have no porch to hang your piece of American pride from. Don’t worry, an A-frame porch swing stand can hang a porch swing anywhere. It’s a great alternative for open porches, patios and backyard enhancements. While the weather is getting cooler and most people aren’t thinking about outdoor decorating, it can be a great time to start planning.  You’ll want to have it up and ready to go by April.  So, making decisions now will ensure you have to nothing to worry about come porch swing season!

Tags: a-frame stands, patio furniture, porch swings

Sure, there are millions of people who look forward to summer, when they can spend time relaxing on porch gliders and patio chairs, napping in hammocks, swimming, and taking vacations.  Even so, nothing attracts us to the outdoors like autumn.

That’s understandable, as it’s such a spectacular show that lasts for such a short time.  This creates a sense of urgency about seeing it, unlike the joys of summer, most of which last throughout season, and, in some cases, beyond.  When you think about it, it’s often more fun to visit a park that’s no longer crowded, where the picnic tables are free, or the beach, when the sand isn’t covered with towels, and the pool houses are empty.  In autumn, however, there’s a fleeting period when colors are at their peak, before the leaves are shed.

Luckily, in contrast to expensive summer – or winter – getaways, we can enjoy fall’s scenery for free, without traveling anywhere.  Certainly, many people do take trips, but that’s a choice, rather than a necessity. 

Indeed, one of the best ways to revel in fall’s grandeur is to take a page from summer’s book, and drink it all in from the comfort of your outdoor furniture.  Just position your Adirondack chair for optimum viewing, tilt your lounge chair back, relax on your garden bench, or get an around-the-tree bench, where you can move 360º without ever leaving your seat, and even get caught in a brilliant shower of leaves.  

Another great way to see it is from a swingbed!  If you haven’t heard about this gem yet, it’s like a porch swing, but with a wider and deeper seat that lets you lie down on it.  If you’ve yet to see one, just go to CedarStore.com, where you’ll find a variety of them in several styles, along with an assortment of soft, thick, cushions, available in over a dozen colors.

Swingbeds are great for year-round use, and they make fantastic gifts as well.  Best of all, they ship – free – in as few as three business days, so there’s still time to get one before the leaves reach their peak.  I’ve got mine, and, believe me, it’s truly a dreamy way to experience the splendor of the season – any season.

Yours Outdoors, 

Kathy

Tags: swingbed, Swingbeds

So, as I was writing and thinking about all of those great times that we all had on our porch swings – or those of friends or relatives – which most of us have captured in pictures in our photo albums, I realized that all of them seem to have happened in the summertime.

Okay, I guess that’s logical, because that has always been the prime season for outdoor furniture.  Just as there was an unwritten law that no one could wear white after Labor Day – and God help anyone who did – everyone automatically put their porch swings, gliders, rockers, lounge chairs, picnic tables, and patio umbrellas into their sheds or garages, or under outdoor furniture covers, at summer’s end.      

But, wait!  That no-wearing-white-after-Labor Day rule has long since been repealed.  In fact, anyone who still adheres to it is now as much of a laughingstock as those who used to ignore it. So, why are we holding onto that old, out-dated notion that we still have to put away our porch swings when the leaves begin to turn?  Some may say that the reason is obvious – that the furniture is outside, exposed to the elements, and most certainly cannot withstand the cruelest of them, which, of course, arrive in winter.

But – once again – wait!  Talk about out-dated notions!  While, surely, that was true of the porch swings that are immortalized in our photo albums, things have changed dramatically, especially at CedarStore.com.  Sure, we have the beloved, classic wood porch swings, made from cedar, pine, oak, teak, cherry, and cypress; in fact, they’re more durable and beautiful than ever.  But we also have swings that are constructed from synthetic wicker and polywood that are nearly indestructible, even if they’re left outside all year long; and they’re available with stainless steel hardware.

Furthermore, not only do we feature tons of styles and sizes, but we offer many of our porch swings in over a dozen colors – even the ones that are made of wood.  We also deliver them free, and, in some cases, ship them within a few days of your order. 

Indeed, we’re helping to break two rules in one fell swoop (or, swell foop, as I like to say).  Now you can use your porch swing in the winter AND dress it in any color you wish, including white – uh, snow white, that is.  So there!

Yours Outdoors,

Kathy

Tags: porch swing, porch swings, swing, Swings

For most of us, the mere mention of a porch swing will instantly conjure a host of memories; and the majority of them are very pleasant.  In fact, there’s no other piece of outdoor furniture that’s so commonly and closely associated with good times, fun get-togethers with family and friends, rare moments of quiet reflection, and those gloriously lazy summer days. 

Indeed, it seems that we’ve all had special porch swings in our lives, somewhere along the line, whether they were on our own front porches when we were growing up, or they belonged to our relatives or friends.  In my case, the unforgettable swing was – and still is – at my grandmother’s house; and, yeah, it’s loaded with the memories that were made by the tons of siblings, cousins, aunts, and uncles who piled onto it nearly every Sunday during the summers of my youth.          

Naturally, the relatives were all over the place, on lounge chairs, folding chairs, gliders, Adirondack chairs, picnic tables, benches, and patio chairs as well; but the moments that were captured in snapshots, with various groups of people on the porch swing over the years, are the ones that are scattered the most liberally throughout the family photo album.  They’re also the ones that spark the fondest, and most amusing, recollections.  The interesting thing is that this situation, apparently, is the same for everyone; and all that you have to do to verify this is to look through your friends’ photo albums.  No doubt, there will be plenty of group pictures taken on porch swings.

So, I guess, when you think about it, the porch swing can actually be considered a family tradition.  If you don’t have one yet, there’s no better time to get started; and no better place to get started that right here, at CedarStore.com, where we have one of the largest (and I’m only saying “one of the largest” because I can’t categorically state that it is THE largest, though I wouldn’t be surprised if it is!) collections of porch swings that you will find anywhere.

Of course, no matter where we stand in the quantity of swings that we offer, I have no trouble saying that the quality is unparalleled; and the variety of styles, materials, sizes, and colors is unbeatable.  Made right here in the good old U.S. of A., our selection includes red and white cedar, treated pine, select pine, oak, cherry, cypress,  and polywood swings.  We also carry teak and synthetic wicker swings.  We’ve got swing stands, swing stands with canopies, arbors with swings, face-to-face swings, and a huge assortment of swing cushions in countless colors and patterns. 

Oh, yeah, and we even have porch swings that are 7’ long – and you won’t find those anywhere else!  So, I guess that makes us the swingingest place around.

Yours Outdoors,

Kathy

Tags: porch swing, swing

Though the porch swing is often associated with days of yore, its popularity continues to increase.  In fact, the more hectic life becomes, the more people seem to appreciate it.  With an allure that’s almost magical, it has the power to reduce our stress, lift our spirits, and fly us away to wherever we want to go. 

At CedarStore.com, besides our traditional cedar, pine, and oak versions, we’ve given the good, old-fashioned porch swing a 21st century spin, by offering it in nearly indestructible polywood and synthetic wicker, in an amazing range of sizes, along with an incredible array of colorful, comfortable cushions.  All of our porch swings are designed to give you years of outdoor living enjoyment; and, no matter which you choose, you’re sure to become a frequent flyer.

Furthermore, because this beloved piece of outdoor furniture is so extraordinary, it deserves to be honored in verse, as such:

The Swing Takes Wing

They say that the feeling of flying is something beyond compare;

Since the dawn of our time, we’ve tried to find ways of hurling ourselves through the air.

It began in prehistoric days with the invention of the wheel,

But rolling along the ground does not have the same appeal.

Throughout the ages, people strove to defy gravity;

As they looked to the skies, in their minds’ eyes, they took flights of fantasy.

The desire to fly touched everyone, from commoner to king,

But no amount of money could a magic carpet bring.

Outrageous lengths were sometimes reached in creativity;

Putting logic aside, many stunts that were tried led to sheer catastrophe.

At times it seemed there was no end to the wild imaginings;

To fly like a bird, some did things as absurd as strapping on homemade wings.

And then, one day, the race for the sky finally reached a new height,

When, ignoring all others, two daring brothers, Orville and Wilbur Wright,

After years of failure finally gained some well-deserved renown,

At Kitty Hawk, where first they got their airplane off the ground.

Today they say, there’s more than one way to get yourself airborne;

Many are as insane as before the plane made air travel the norm.

Some may do it with ease, on a flying trapeze, but one slip and it may be over;

In a bungi jump, one could end up a lump upon a field of clover.

So, when I crave the sensation of flying through the air,

Like the wind in the trees, with a heavenly breeze blowing through my hair,

I have only to step outside my door, where I instantly take wing;

For I prefer to take my flights on my magical porch swing.

Yours Outdoors,

Kathy

Tags: porch swing, swing