October 20, 2011

Arbor » the ABCs of Arbor Swings

garden swing bench Arbor » The ABCs of Arbor Swings

Arbor Swings combine the comfort and relaxation of swinging bench seats with the romanticism and elegance of form that is the arbor. These pieces are luxurious examples of outdoor furniture whose origins are steeped in tradition and beauty. The basic design of arbor swings is a bench or loveseat connected on top to an arched or rectangular arbor, or wooden trellis. Beyond this, there are a few variations that distinguish different arbor swing designs. Here are a few of them.

A is for ArborThe term arbor refers to the framework portion of arbor swings. There are also standalone arbors and ones with non-moving benches attached. Arbors can either be rounded on top in an arch shape, or they can be rectangular with hard edges. The sides and tops almost always feature some sort of pergola or latticework design. The more open the design, the looser the latticework and more someone sitting inside can see around them. The purpose of this crisscross or open slatted pattern is to allow climbing plants to overtake and ideally cover the entire framework of the structure. in addition, many arbor swings also come with decking, or a baseboard that sits beneath the swing and is connected to the frame. The benefit of decking is that it both adds stability to the entire structure, and also provides a clean and level place to rest one’s feet, especially if the outside ground is wet.

B is for BenchesThe seat part of arbors swings is typically either a 2-person loveseat or 3-seat bench. There are many different styles of bench, including the Classic and Victorian models, each with slightly variant designs. Some benches have more tightly spaced slats, some have curved backrests or armrests. Some benches are ornately carved, while others are left simple. The nice about these benches is that many of them are interchangeable with different arbor frameworks, so you can pick one that really suits your taste.

The second part of these benches is the connector piece which attaches them to the arbor and allows them to move. Regular arbor seats are affixed on either side of the frame and so do not move. Arbor swings, however, are modeled very much after other types of porch swings There is some connector, usually either metal chain or long wooden poles, which run from the arms of the bench up to the top of the frame. Where it connects on top acts as the fulcrum upon which the seat swings back and forth.

C is for Cedar and CypressWhile arbor swings can be made from poly resin and metal, the most popular choice remains wood. Outdoor furniture woods are strong, long-lasting and attractive. Cedar and cypress in particular both have great track records when it comes to durability. Cedar in particular also has a fragrant aroma, and it produces natural tannins which repel insects.

C is (also) for ComponentsThe last thing to remember is to check out the hardware that goes into arbor swings. many models come unassembled, affording the buyer a firsthand view on just how things pieces together. Wood hardware is not as durable as metal, but there isn’t a chance of rust. However, most kinds of metal, like zinc now come with rust-resistant coating.

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Arbor » The ABCs of Arbor Swings