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How do I Choose the Best Gazebo Swing?

Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari

A gazebo swing can add a comfortable and relaxing accent to any yard or garden, and choosing the right gazebo swing for you does not have to be difficult. Size, function, materials, and cost will dictate which swing will work best in your yard. The first step is to measure how much available space you have in your yard for a gazebo. This will narrow down the prefabricated choices available to you, and it will give you a better idea of how much materials will cost if you intend to build the gazebo swing yourself. Then decide how often the swing is likely to be used, and by whom to get a better idea of what materials will work best.

A wooden gazebo swing will most likely cost the most out of the materials available for swing construction. Cedar is the best choice of wood for such a swing because it is naturally resistant to water damage, mold, mildew, and bug infestation. While wood is expensive, it is also easy to work with during construction and it will allow you to build a gazebo swing to your specifications. It will also allow you to add features easily, such as end tables or platforms. Prefabricated wooden gazebo swing models are available as well, and these may cut the cost a bit. Make sure, however, that the wood used for construction is high quality and/or pressure treated to resist damage from exposure to the elements.

Woman holding a book
Woman holding a book

Metal frame gazebo swings are quite popular and affordable. They may be made from aluminum or steel, and they are usually light enough that they can be moved around the yard rather easily. The seats can be made from metal framing as well, or they may be made from wicker, polyurethane, or other materials meant to form a comfortable and durable seat. If the seat is made from metal, be sure to choose a swing that features comfortable cushions placed over the metal. If it does not feature cushions, you can purchase outdoor cushions aftermarket that are resistant to moisture and damage from the elements.

Swing chairs can also be made from cotton or vinyl. Cotton is quite comfortable, but it is not as resistant to tearing or water damage as other materials. The canopy can also be made from these materials, though a cotton canopy will run into the same problems as a cotton seat. Choose as many weatherproof features as possible when choosing your gazebo swing, and ensure that all materials are resistant to tears, UV damage, water damage, and so on.

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