How to Build and Hang a Porch Swing

Steel chain is easy to adjust and lasts a long time, as long as it's galvanized. Rope is warm to the touch and won't rust or react with wood. A good nylon rope won't deteriorate and even has some "give" for added comfort. To make sure your rope is strong enough, add the weight of the swing to the maximum weight you expect it to hold at one time (600 pounds is a reasonable estimate). That total should be less than or equal to the rope's safe working load printed on the package.

Swing room
While most porch swingers are relatively sedate, you should allow at least 2 feet of clearance at the ends and 30 inches front and back to avoid colliding with the house, the porch railings, or people.