Garden swing seat buying guide

Sylvie, Ecrivain & journaliste brico/déco, Essonne
143 guidesImportant features
- Style
- Materials
- Accessories
- Care
Choosing a swing seat based on function and space

Garden swing seats must be chosen to match the style of your garden or terrace. Traditionally rectangular in shape, you can also find oval-shaped swings for a more unique look. Wooden models will tie in perfectly with a rustic-themed décor, although you will have to make sure to take good care of the material. Go for a resin or metal garden swing if you want more of a contemporary vibe. And for lower budgets, opt for a PVC swing. Please note that this material will have to be protected over the winter months.
Swing structure materials
Wooden swing seats
All wood species perform differently in terms of their resistance to moisture, insects or fungi. They must also be treated regularly with product suited to the wood type: wax, oil, varnish or a wood brightener for exotic wood.
Steel swing seats

Steel swings offer a more modern option. Whether made of stainless steel or powder-coated steel (coated with epoxy resin), these swings are UV- and corrosion-resistant. Be careful, however, as this material tends to heat up in the sun meaning you will need to invest in some cushions.
While steel does not require any particular type of upkeep, the slightest scratch can damage the protection provided by the epoxy resin and harm the material's defences against rust. To deal with this issue, some steel swings are hot dipped galvanised (a paint technique designed to increase the resistance of the material).
Aluminium swing seats
Strong but lightweight, aluminium swings are easier to move around and do not require any special type of care. However, just like steel models, they do tend to heat up in the sun.
Woven resin swing seats
In terms of care, this material simply requires washing with soapy water. Be sure to check, however, that it has been given a UV-resistant coating. Similarly, bear in mind that these chairs cannot be kept outdoors over the winter. Nonetheless, they are inexpensive and easy to maintain.
Swing roofs and seats
Garden swing seat roofs
Garden swing roofs can be made of resin which lets in the light but keeps out UV rays. These also come in polyester and textilene (a woven fabric made of polyester fibres covered in PVC) which do not let in light or UV rays and will also protect you from light rain showers. Check the weight of the fabric – meaning the number of grams per metre squared (gr/m²) – as this will determine its quality, water resistance and durability. The higher the (gr/m²), the better the roof quality.
Another practical option is a swivel roof which can be tilted depending on the position of the sun.
Garden swing seats

Swing seats may be made of wooden slats, steel or nylon.
Garden swing seat accessories
Trays
Protective covers
Sylvie, Ecrivain & journaliste brico/déco, Essonne 143 guides écrits
