How and from what can you make a swing?

The arrangement of playgrounds is unthinkable without the use of a swing. However, these custom-made designs do not meet the needs of their owners. Therefore, it is recommended to make all these parts yourself.

Swings in summer cottages have long since left the category of luxury and entertainment elements. They become a full-fledged element in the arrangement of the territory. Their installation is possible:

• on the verandas of houses;
• on terraces;
• on the streets.

There are many options and individual models. You need to evaluate them by:

• size;
• the possibility of installation in certain places;
• the way of fixing;
• applied material;
• coloring;
• convenience.

The stationary type of construction is simple and well known to all people from ancient times. For retention, tree branches or horizontal suspended beams are used. If we try to give the simplest description, then it will be "a seat suspended on a chain or ropes." And it was the general simplicity that allowed such designs to gain popularity. If you have to place the swing outside without the use of awnings, chains are much preferable to ropes - they will not get wet from the water.

Despite the overall reliability of the device, it needs to be monitored periodically. Every node, even not arousing suspicion, is subject to inspection at least at the beginning and end of the summer season. You will also have to take care of the lubrication of the moving parts. Otherwise, the creak will not allow you to enjoy a good rest. The classic version means just hanging the plank on ropes or chains using a tree branch as a support.

If there is no particularly significant load on the swing, nylon ropes can be used. They reduce the deformation of the tree, which already suffers from this practice. The best support for a stationary swing is oak, which is durable and very strong. It is important to see if there are any cracks or other violations on the branch. The chains that support the rocker must be covered with plastic pipes so that there is no risk of injury to the fingers.

The branches will have to be researched weekly. The fact is that a swing, especially with active use, can systematically damage wood. Testing should be carried out by the most "weighty" family members. Only then can children be allowed to use the swing. It is recommended to complement the structures with various design elements. Often at the dachas they try to be in solitude, to surrender to their thoughts. An excellent option in such cases is a swing chair. Most people will be happy with noble vintage pieces. It is very good when fringe tassels hang from them. It helps to improve your mood.

A good alternative would be to place the swing in the format of a suspended sofa. It is more appropriate to use it on a large veranda where there is a solid overlap. Similar designs, however, can be used in pergola-type gazebos. However, unlike structures with a roof, they are bad because the pillows will have to be urgently removed when it starts to rain. If this circumstance does not scare you, you can try a similar solution at home.

The pergola can be made in a round or square configuration, in either case they are entwined with green plants. It is advisable to supplement such designs with benches and awnings. You can equip an already built pergola with a swing. For this purpose, both purchased and self-made structures are used. If you plan to receive many guests, you can supplement the composition with barbecue.

You should not try to immediately build the most complex structure, it is better to start with a simpler option. And in this regard, mobile swings are much better than stationary ones, it is easier to "fill your hand" on them. Other advantages of a mobile swing are:

• ease of protection from bad weather;
• simplification of transportation;
• convenience in storage.

But it must be borne in mind that mobile swings are distinguished by a complicated design. If you try to simplify it, the wear resistance will be less than that of the stationary version. In any case, the service period will be slightly shorter. But the mobile swing is easy to put where the playground has not yet been fully equipped. After all, when the arrangement is over, the appearance of the local area can change significantly, and it will not be possible to adjust the stationary product so easily.

Both mobile and fixed swings of the "bed" type should be placed where there is a lot of space. Even a small swing makes it impossible to mount them near walls and other objects. If there is absolutely not enough space, you need to adjust the concept and prefer a single entertainment swing. Both large and children's swings should be placed only on a flat, well-tamped place. It is also required to carefully fit the products into the environment.

Round nest-shaped swing differs from classical benches and baskets not only in its geometric shape. Such products are capable of:

• move in a transverse course;
• spin around its axis;
• jump.

If the seat has a large diameter, it will allow several people to sit at once. This is even more important for children than for adults. Often, the inability to use a structure at the same time generates conflicts. If you install an oval swing, it can be converted into a simple hammock in a short time. But we must remember that the mechanical impact on the supporting elements is many times higher than in traditional versions.

You can make swing seats from metal elements, including forged blocks. But it is much more practical to use a tubular profile, because it is initially optimized for quick work. Comparison of pipes and fittings shows that it is hollow metal that helps to save money. Another clear advantage is the increased mechanical resistance of such products, even strong impacts do not damage them.

But we must also remember that the use of a profile pipe to form a swing has certain disadvantages. So, bending, unlike other works, requires complex and powerful equipment, which is associated with stiffening ribs. If the structure is made of carbon steel, it will actively rust and quickly deteriorate. The application of a zinc layer partially solves this problem, but this treatment significantly increases the cost of the blocks. In addition, any steel product is very heavy.

A square steel profile with a cross section of 2x2 cm with a wall thickness of 0.1 cm will weigh about 0.6 kg per 1 m of steel. It depends on the grade of the metal.If a 4x4 cm profile pipe is used with a wall thickness of 0.2 cm, the mass of the same section will already be about 2.3 kg. As far as the geometry of the pipes is concerned, it is also essential. Use pipes close to a circle or oval, preferably for curved parts.

But the square and rectangle are optimal for creating parts that are installed on the surface. With flat pipes it is easy to make horizontally oriented spacers. Additionally apply:

• steel corners;
• arcs made of steel;
• suspended structures;
• paints that protect metal from corrosion;
• lifting shackles;
• spring washers and so on.

The swing seat can also be made from a board. But at the same time, it is required to carefully select the species of wood, since not all of them are sufficiently resistant to bad weather. All wooden parts must be thoroughly sanded with a plane and even sandpaper to ensure that they get rid of splinters. The sizes of the parts can be very different, they are selected individually in such a way as to use less material and to save time. All capital swings have a fairly large mass and require the preparation of foundations.

The forged type of swing stands out from other metal structures with external grace. It can contain beautiful patterns that seem to hang in the air. It is recommended to put such products in conjunction with other composite structures. An ideal site is formed if it is possible to create an atmosphere, as in parks of past eras, with their exquisite lanterns and sturdy benches and tables. A wooden structure should be chosen by those who want to make their backyard territory more natural and lively.

Regardless of the use of specific materials, a garden swing requires careful installation. And for this you will first have to choose a suitable site. The key considerations when selecting her are comfort and safety; one or the other requirement cannot be reduced even to the smallest extent. It is inappropriate to put the swing directly on the tracks and next to them. This will create many problems for vacationers and walkers alike, even more - it will lead to danger.

For the same reason, swings should not be placed near fountains, on river banks, along roads and railways. Falling on flower beds, lawns and just beds can destroy the fruits of many months and even years of work. That is why it is necessary to remove all attractions from them. It is advisable to give preference to a flat open area. Moreover, it should be composed of soft earth, and not hard asphalt or concrete.

If the swing is intended for children, it is very important to ensure that the playground is clearly visible. After all, the tighter the control over the child, the calmer him and the parents. When it is not possible to put the swing in a completely safe place, they should be separated from dangerous areas using fences. It is also undesirable to mount them near power lines. The lighting should be decent, but shade in the afternoon is also important.

Both wood and metal (albeit to a lesser extent) structures can suffer from high humidity. In addition, it poses a threat to humans as well. It is unacceptable to choose areas where drafts occur regularly. It is also worth giving up all places where there are toxic plants that give massive allergic reactions, thorny shrubs. Even just active honey plants are dangerous, because insects collecting nectar are completely equipped with poisonous stings.

Into a simple toolbox are included in any case:

• electric drill;
• screwdriver;
• electric plane;
• building level;
• angle grinder.

Since all structures must be made as safe as possible, it is supposed to use a file and sandpaper. When using metal parts, a welding machine is required. Electrodes are selected in the same way as in other situations. To the sander, add discs for processing metal surfaces. Since you will have to dig holes, you cannot do without a shovel.

When the right place is finally determined, required:

• remove all construction waste;
• weed out all thorny bushes and grasses;
• level the territory.

To build a garden swing for a summer cottage, you must first build racks in the form of the letter "A". They should be at least 0.5 m wider than the seat. As soon as the calculations are completed, you need to take an electric jigsaw and saw a bar. Next, the parts made are connected, and they begin to do this from above. The connection is achieved using long screws or furniture bolts. 0.6 m is measured from the bottom of the bar, it is such a site that needs to be buried in the ground. The rest of the timber is usually divided into 3 identical segments. The fact is that the installation of ties on the sides should be done exactly on the border of the central and lower thirds. It is recommended to use corners and self-tapping screws for fastening. If such fixation is not enough, you need to use a pair of trapeziums made of wood.

To make a seat for an outdoor swing with your own hands, you must first make a couple of frames. One of them (2000x500 mm) will become a seat, and the other (2000x650 mm) - a backrest. It is recommended to secure them using stiffening struts. The connection is made at an inclination of 120 degrees. Then it remains only to cover the seat with boards.

The next step is to attach the crossbar to the side posts. Pits are dug to a depth of 0.8 m, the bottom is covered not only with sand, but also with rubble. After pouring concrete into the racks, it is recommended to wait approximately 48 hours for the mortar to harden completely. As soon as this happens, using a drill, drill the passages in the rungs, the front of the seats and the upper rails of the backs. The eyebolts should be inserted there.

That's it, the seat is ready. You can fix it and enjoy the result. But there are a number of subtleties that need to be taken into account. So, the U-shaped frame allows you to save lumber as much as possible. In addition, such supports do not create obstacles for movement and are safe in terms of injury. However, they can only be installed permanently, and therefore the supports will have to be concreted. The best place is where the ground is soft. The L-shaped design, sometimes described as letter V, is characterized by increased stability. Another advantage is the possibility of forming a children's corner, and not just hanging the swing.

As for the X-shaped frames, the difference with the L-shaped frames is the installation of fasteners 15-20 cm below the joint, and not on it. Where the vertical beams intersect, a jumper will have to be laid. This technique is simple. However, so that the product does not fail, you will have to reinforce it with a side stop.

Regardless of the selected frame format, you need to prepare drawings or sketches that will help:

• choose the optimal dimensions;
• find out how much materials you need;
• accurately determine the required section of the parts;
• calculate the generated load.

The drawings should reflect:

• full dimensions of the structure;
• the number of seats and their types;
• the geometry of the structure;
• the presence of amplifying elements and the point of their exposure.

Swings on bearings have their own peculiarities. Most often, such parts are attached to the main pipes of the upper lintels. But it so happens that it is impossible to find two equally large bearings. In this case, use end fastening on the sides or lower (on the upper tube of the frame). Bearing units are mounted using locknuts.

If you use some kind of homemade fastener, you need to take maximum care of safety. Children's products must be carefully adapted to anatomical features and growth. But the size of the body at such a young age changes very quickly, therefore it is necessary to think over the scaling of the model. It's very bad when the guys can't reach the ground. They will not be interested, but also uncomfortable when everything is very tight and there is not enough legroom.

The supports at the bottom should certainly be treated with any compounds that make it possible to exclude putrefactive processes. The best option to do this would be to use used machine oil. L-shaped and A-shaped frames are most often assembled into one whole on the ground. If the lower parts of the supports do not dig into the ground, they suffer less from rotting, but then you will need to use a bracket and an elongated rod. It is important to remember that the weakest point in the frames of types "A", "L", "X" is the intersection of the lintel with vertical supports.

To put a self-tapping screw, you first need to prepare a hole slightly smaller than its diameter. Only after that, the structure is fixed. Some craftsmen believe that it is necessary to glue over all the points where the blanks are connected. Other experts recommend reinforcing problematic units with steel plates or wooden struts. The choice between these options depends on which method is easier to use, the more experience, and what material is at the ready.

Suspensions, even metal ones, are unacceptable for mounting seats. For this purpose, only ropes and chains can be used. The cable itself, thrown over the crossbar, is tied or pressed with a clip. Sometimes swing knots are used, that is, steel pads fixed in the upper parts of the crossbeams. The seat can also be attached to the same crossbars using carabiners. Strongly unacceptable use:

• substances and materials that form especially toxic gases during combustion;
• unexplored materials recently introduced into circulation;
• polymers and composites with unconfirmed UV resistance;
• polymers and composites that tend to become brittle before the end of their normal operating time.

It is imperative to check whether the building paints and varnishes used to treat parts of the swing are safe enough. This requirement applies to both decorative and purely protective compositions.Even at the design stage, it is required to take care of the complete evidence of all risks for the target audience. During the assembly process, you also need to think about this point. When choosing antiseptics for wood, you cannot take substances that accelerate metal corrosion or other deterioration of its properties.

After the end of the work, there should be no sharp ends and edges, roughness. It is intended to protect all outwardly facing connections that use bolts. Experts recommend taking care of the smoothness of the welds. The smallest radius of curvature wherever it should be applied is 0.3 cm. The selection of fasteners and the performance of fastening work must completely exclude accidental parsing without the use of tools.

When preparing a swing for children, and in many ways for adults, one must immediately make a fundamental choice - whether the main part will be made of wood or metal. The metal version is supported by its high strength and stable operation over many years. According to the need for processing with additional compounds, they go on a par, only the wood is impregnated with antiseptics, and the steel is covered with anticorrosive mixtures. Steel structures turn out to be more expensive, although their availability is about the same. But the resistance to fire is definitely higher for metal blocks.

But applying only them will still not work. The fact is that steel is very cold in the cold. And this will inevitably entail negative health consequences. This consideration is important to take into account, regardless of who will use the site - kids or adults. After all, rarely does anyone refuse to swing on a swing during leisure, even if the thermometer is firmly below zero degrees.

As for the children's swing, there can also be a noticeable difference between them. So, for small children (up to 3 years old), only mobile structures or structures installed inside the house are suitable. At this time, the closest control from parents and other adults is imperative. There is not the slightest reason to rely on conscientiousness and self-control. Even in this case, it is recommended to set the seat to the minimum height, and not only for reasons of convenience. Geometrically similar products are either cradle-like or fitted with adequate restraints.

In older preschool years, the variety of variations available increases. But all the same, it is still impossible to make a swing of the same size as for adults. This rule also applies to the range of their movement. Versions designed for teenagers, on the contrary, can be made according to standard templates. The focus is no longer on external beauty, but on functionality, the ability to "swing" properly.

For installation, a pillar base is used. If there is an intention to make a movable structure, the bending of the support legs must be increased by 10 degrees. The work on filling the holes with concrete does not differ from that already described. But in the period from setting to concrete hardening, it is necessary to weld the mortgages, and then fix them on the anchor bolts. To keep the seats on a horizontal bar, eyebolt hinges are used.

In order to accurately size the country swing and their parts in the drawing, you need to take into account the basic principles of their determination. Otherwise, ignoring the main factors, many years of experience of people leads to problems. It is required to determine the dimensions by age (for children, it determines the size, the elongation of the suspension, the geometry of the seats). Height allows you to more accurately indicate the length of the suspension.If the swing is made "for growth", then the width of the seats should be 60 cm, and the height above the ground - from 50 to 55 cm.

Such dimensions provide free swinging and stopping of the attraction, but at the same time they will not complicate the ride. Since many children like to swing, standing on a support, you need to make the height up to the crossbar 1.6 m. The total value of the swing is calculated with a correction for the thickness of the seat. In most cases, a load level of 100-120 kg is sufficient. It allows you to freely use the structure even for several children or 1 child and 1 adult together.

The current standard requires that all pieces of equipment with a width exceeding 10 cm and an inclination angle of up to 30 degrees are designed for a load from only one child. Classic swing is designed for two children. When calculating the loads associated with the movement of the swing, it is necessary to perform calculations for any of the most serious positions in which the swinging platform finds itself. The weight of the swing is determined by adding the weight of the platforms and the anchoring elements. The sum is then divided by 2.

When performing calculations, it is necessary to use the method of limiting statesset out in GOST 27751-2014. If other approaches are used, confirmation is required that they provide no less safety than the limit state technique. The first of these states is the complete destruction and the onset of other irreparable deformations, as well as the loss of stability. The second is the disappearance of operational reliability associated with deformation. But it is impossible to apply the second limit state, it is directly prohibited by the guidelines for calculating equipment for playgrounds.

Full-scale testing involves successfully resisting the design test load for 300 seconds. When the test is completed, no loosening of joints and mechanical ties should be observed on all parts of the swing. Moreover, the occurrence of cracks and other breakdowns is unacceptable. The inadmissibility of permanent deformations occurs when they cause a deviation from any standard value.

As already mentioned, both metal and a board of a certain size can be used for its manufacture. But in designs with or without a backrest, you can show real originality, give free rein to your imagination. An example is a seating position made from a pair of small logs. They should be connected with ropes, which, after wrapping each part, are brought out and tightened three times. This type of swing seat can be fixed as you like, but it will not lift more than 1 rider.

To get rid of excessive rigidity, and at the same time to hedge against the cold season, you need to cover the seat with a layer of fabric. Of course, it must be durable and resistant to adverse weather events. It is recommended to use spruce, birch and pine boards for the base. These materials are of acceptable strength and are more comfortable to work with than other breeds. With the help of the boards made from them, you can even prepare a support for several people.

Plastic is suitable only conditionally. It serves quite a bit and cannot boast of solid durability. If a heavy load is applied, the structure may collapse. And yet all types of plastic are easily destroyed by ultraviolet rays, or even just being in the cold. Rubber is bad for the inconvenience when sitting and the danger of rolling in a standing position.

There could be a lot more to say about how best to make a homemade hanging swing for a house and a summer cottage. But it's better to focus on examples.Equipping the swing with a wide roof allows you to almost not be afraid of rain and sun.

For information on how to make a swing with your own hands, see the next video.