A little work today and you’ll be swinging comfortably for years to come.

But the most important step to take is making sure your swing is installed properly and safely.

Decide how to orient your swing.

2018 Idea House in Austin, Texas Blue and White Porch Swing

Credit:Hector Manuel Sanchez; Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller

Confirm You’ve Got Structural Support

Human beings are fairly heavy.

Porch swings can also be pretty heavy, depending on the material they’re made out of.

Swings can also be suspended from eithertwo or four hooksin the ceiling.

Texas Farmhouse Porch

Credit: Laurey W. Glenn

Drill pilot holes smaller than your eye bolts before screwing them into the center of your ceiling joists.

Test your swing to see to it it hangs evenly and swings smoothly.

Then all that’s left to do isenjoy your porch!

White Farmhouse Porch Swing

This plush white porch swing provides extra seating for this spacious wrapped covered porch—perfect for entertaining.Credit:Laurey W. Glenn

Blue and White Porch with Wicker Chairs and Swing

Credit: Melanie Acevedo