How To Repair a Swing

Read the instruction manual carefully to confirm the rust remover can be used on the metal of your patio swing. Spray the rust remover on the affected areas, according to the product instructions. Let it sit for at least half an hour.

Scrape off the rust with a metal bristle brush. If you don't have one, crumple some aluminum foil to make a ball and use it to scrape off the rust. Wipe off the loosened rust using a dry cloth.

Refer to the anchor manual and fix them to your swing’s frame. Ensure that all the anchors are fixed firmly on all corners of the swing frame.

Now, drive the anchors into the ground using the appropriate method. Use a hammer to fix anchored stakes into the soil. Use a drill machine for concrete anchors. Refer to the anchor manual for detailed instructions.

Once you’ve completed their installation, check the anchors thoroughly. Check if the swing frame is still swaying when in use. If so, you can tighten the anchors.

​If you spot any loose bolts, tighten them a little using an open hex wrench or screwdriver. Then, check if the swing is still squeaking. If so, tighten the bolts further. 

It is possible that there are no loose bolts. In such a case, the squeaking is caused by friction between the joints. Apply petroleum jelly or vegetable oil on the suspension joints. The squeaking must stop after lubrication.

Purchase good-quality lumber to make your swing seat. ​Cedar is one of the best options for outdoor furniture DIYs. Cedar boards do not rot easily and are durable. You can also consider buying redwood. It has properties similar to cedar. Make sure the boards are strong enough to support the weight of the people using the swing. Use the original boards as a guide for selecting the thickness, width, etc. If you’re not confident the boards will support the weight correctly, it’s best to invest in a new swing.

Now, measure the swing seat to know the length of wood you will need. Cut the lumber to the required size using a hand saw or power saw. You can use a wide board to cover the whole seat. You can also ​​attach two or more boards with a few inches of gap between them. 

​Once you cut the wood boards, rub their surface with sandpaper. This will ensure that the wood surface is free of splinters and rough edges. The smooth surface will be easier to paint and comfortable to sit on.

Now, stain the boards to achieve the desired look. Clear stains are recommended because they resist mold, mildew, UV rays and moisture. If you want to give a rich color to the seat, go with​ solid or opaque stains.

Open the can of oil and stir with a brush or stick to get a smooth consistency. Apply it on the wood surface with a lint free cloth. You can also use a brush suitable for oil-based finishes. Coat the wood evenly and wipe off any excess oil with a clean cloth.

Set the boards aside and let them dry for at least 24 hours. Once dry, you can apply a second coat to add an extra protective layer and achieve a darker stain. It might take a few days for the stain to dry completely. It depends on the type of wood and stain as well as the weather conditions of your area.

Once the stain has dried completely, bring the boards near the swing. Place them on the swing seat frame and mark where to make the nail holes. Mark the nail points on all four sides of all the wood boards.

Some swings might not have a nail hole. In such a condition, mark the nail hole point on the frame as well. Ensure that the nail hole marks on the wood boards and swing seat frame overlap each other.

Use a drill machine to make holes for the nails on the wood board. Repeat the same for the swing frame.

Place your wood board on the swing seat frame and hammer the nails in all the marked points. Repeat the same for all the other wood boards. ​Apply a water repellent or stain on the wood patio swing. It will act as a sealant and protect it from wear and tear. Place patio bench cushions of your choice to make the swing seat more comfortable.