Your family will gather around the porch when you hang a wood swing there. Or put your swing and stand set under a tree to create a great outdoor gathering place.

Steps

Note: Most of the swings that you can buy already include a hanging chain. You will need to purchase eye-bolts or large hooks. For safest installation, you should use eye-bolts in an overhead support beam.

1. For extra bounce and comfort, you should get Comfort Springs. The springs are tightly coiled together to create a shock absorber, enhancing the comfort of your porch swing with every movement. These springs are made with a high strength chrome steel, and are specially designed to smooth out the swinging motion and allow for a wide range of suspension.
2. Locate an overhead beam (with an 8-foot clearance below it) to install the two swing hooks spaced at the width of the swing to hold the comfort springs and chains. Drill pilot holes first to prevent wood splitting when screwing in the eye-bolts/large hooks needed to hold your swing safely.
3. Use four chains to hang your swing from its hooks - two chains hang from each hook, one to the front of the swing and one to the back. Seven-foot-long chains hung from a beam 8-feet above the floor will lift the swing 17 inches off the ground for easy on and off.
4. If no porch is handy, there are several stands to choose from at HomeAccessoryShop.com. Put the stands anywhere in your yard or garden. Add a stand canopy or an arbor for shade from the sun.
5. Screw all hardware securely into the wood and use chain connectors for safety. Double-check that all hardware is installed before hanging your swing.
6. Get a helper to lift the swing and its harness up to you on a ladder near the beam. Hook the swing in place, adjust the chains evenly and give it a test swing.

Tips

• It is better to use eye bolts, not screws to hang your swing.
• swings with holes in the arms are easy to hang, but those mounted with chains attached to the lower frame make for more comfortable sitting.
• Use stain or sanding sealer under polyurethane varnish to preserve wood swings before hanging.
• Check for splinters annually and reseal as needed.

Warnings:

• Never let children stand up in a porch swing.
• If you have any doubt that your porch can support a swing, use a stand instead.
• Do not hang swings from masonry or brick.

Charcoal - These grills are traditionally round or oval shaped, and are made of coated steel to prevent rust. Some also come with side trays and wheels so they can easily be moved. The charcoal sits on a grate rack inside of the bowl. The actualcooking grate sits above the charcoal. Lighter fluid is the most common way to start the charcoal grill, however you can also use a "chimney" starter that uses newspaper. Once the fire is lit the coals should be ready in about 15 minutes. Make sure the coals are evenly distributed to achieve even heating throughout the grill surface.

Gas - gas grills use either LP (liquid propane) or Natural gas. They are specifically manufactured to use just one of these types of fuel, although some gas grills can be converted. Make sure you specify the fuel type when ordering. gas grills are generally more expensive than charcoal grills because of the design and use of mechanical parts. The most popular materials are cast aluminum and stainless steel because they keep the flow of hot air inside your grill. This is called convection. You may also hear the term "double walled," which means that the hood is made of two pieces of steel or aluminum with a small air gap in between. Good stainless steel grills will often be made of heavy gauge #304 stainless steel, which retains heat and will not corrode. gas grills generally come with a stand or cart and most have wheels. Finally, some gas grills are made to fit into a permanent frame or counter top space, called a built-in. They are popular with outdoor kitchens and patios and have the same cooking performance as grills you see on carts or pedestals.

Propane or LP (liquid propane - as it is known) comes in a portable tank that connects directly to your grill. Your grill will come with the proper regulator connection which is normally a simple "twist-on" connector, similar to your garden hose.
Tanks can be purchased at many locations, the most common size being 20 lbs. You will need to fill the tank at a local gas station

or propane distributor. Tanks fit on the side of or underneath the grill, which will be illustrated in your owners manual. About 85% of all gas grills are fueled by LP. Savvy gas grill owners often suggest keeping a spare tank handy so you don't run out!

Natural gas grills tap directly into your home's gas fuel supply, which is provided by your local utility company. Natural gas is commonly used to fuel your furnace or other gas appliances such as stoves and dryers. The utility company or a locally certified contractor can install the necessary connection outlet so that you can use natural gas for your grill. While the natural gas connection is very convenient (you won't "run out" of fuel in the middle of cooking) it does require that your grill be placed in a virtually fixed position. That is, you won't be able to move your grill to some other part of your deck or patio once it has been hooked up. About 10-15% of all gas grills are fueled by natural gas.

Size of Cooking Surface
Most manufacturers provide two (2) measurements to describe a cooking surface:

(i) primary or grilling surface - the area that you cook on

(ii) total cooking surface - includes that same grilling surface plus the size of the warming rack or warming baskets, if applicable

These measurements are provided in square inches so that you can easily compare

it to other makes and models. The chart below may also give you perspective on

sizes.

	Grill Size	Total Cooking Surface
	Small	300 - 500 sq in
	Medium	500 - 700 sq in
	Large	700 and up sq in

Consider what you are cooking and the number of people you normally cook for and that will give you a good idea of the size of grill you need.

BTUs

British Thermal Units is a measurement unique to gas grills. BTUs describe how much energy your grill can produce from the gas it burns. The higher the BTUs, the more cooking power/heat it will deliver. Look for grills that have at least 20,000 - 25,000 BTUs to cook most foods in a reasonable amount of time. Grills in the

25,000 - 45,000 BTUs range are very common and will give you the power/heat you need to cook anything. Grills that deliver more than 45,000 BTUs are designed

to give you maximum flexibility. They generate enough heat and high enough temperatures (over 600 degrees) to properly "sear" steaks and cook most foods quickly if you want to.

Porcelain is a baked-on coating that is "stick" resistant. It is very common on many types of grills and easy to clean. Use your wire brush after the grates have cooled down. Occasionally wash with soap and water.

Stainless Steel is usually made with the same high quality steel as the hood.

• These grates are also "stick" resistant and very durable. Clean with wire brush, even if the grates are warm. Also wash with soap and water.
• Cast Iron is generally heavier that porcelain or stainless and extremely durable. In addition, cast iron retains heat for more even cooking. Plus it makes professional looking grill marks on burgers or steaks. Cast iron grates
  can usually be used on either side.

Grates

The three (3) most common types of cooking grates are porcelain-enameled steel, stainless steel or cast iron. Each piece is welded for long life and durability. And remember, if you are cooking low fat meats, lightly spray or wipe down the grates with cooking oil before you start your grill.

Burners
Burners deliver the gas to heat the grilling surface. They are usually tube-shaped or

U-shaped with small holes to allow the gas to flow. The most common materials are cast iron, stainless steel or brass. Cast iron is durable and long-lasting but will eventually rust and wear over time. Stainless steel and brass burners are more expensive but even longer-lasting because they are more rust resistant. Ideally each burner should be controlled separately, with its own knob. This allows you to adjust

Rotisseries
Rotisseries are used for cooking large meats, such as roasts, whole chickens or

turkeys. They use a spit and clamping system to hold the meat in place. The rotisserie fits in the side grooves of your grill and slowly spins over the heat. Most rotisseries are electrically powered so having access to an outdoor outlet is best. Some are battery powered. Rotisseries are designed for slower cooking but don't

forget to check on it periodically.

Back Burners & Side Burners
A back burner is just like the burner inside your gas grill only this one is mounted on the inside back of your grill. They are used in conjunction with a rotisserie and

sometimes have a protective mesh screen. It allows you to "slow cook" exclusively with the back burner rather than using the full power of the grill. If you don't use a rotisserie, then a back burner is not necessary. A side burner is just what it sounds like: a burner that fits on the side of your grill. It takes the place of a side tray and can be used to heat up sauces or boil water. Use it just like your kitchen stove top. If you want to make your entire meal on the grill, then a side burner is something to

consider.

Flare Ups

When grease from your food drips into the grill box and gets too close to the burners, it can cause a fire flare up. To minimize this, manufacturers use various materials to create a barrier between the gas burners and the grill grates. Some use ceramic briquets while others use metal plates or brackets to deflect grease and sauces away from the burners. In either case, the grease is vaporized when it hits the barrier, which greatly reduces flare ups.

Warranty
Varies by manufacturer but good grills (such as ours) offer multi-year coverage on burners, valves, grill compartment and workmanship. Your owner's manual will have the terms of the warranty.

Home and garden furniture can be used inside or outdoors. Some have built a large patio with glass or screen, put down indoor/outdoor carpeting, install a ceiling fan or air conditioner and some even put in a fireplace. The patio area can be attached to the house or separate. This area would require home accessories to furnish the surroundings. When looking for plants for this area, you would still look for house plants of the larger variety.

The enclosing of the patio area should make visitors think this is just another room in the house. You will want the room to give off the look of casual comfort, a room in which to relax and have fun. Home and garden furniture fabricated from wicker have a classic appearance. The simplicity of the designs leans to the look of comfort and romance. Since the home and garden furniture constructed of wicker is made for the outdoors, care and maintenance should be a much easier task.

Home accessories can be made from wood or wicker. Lawn and garden furniture is also made from recycled plastic. This style of lawn and garden furniture is made all in one piece and is designed to stack together to use the smallest amount of space for storage. This style of lawn and garden furniture is not as easily moved from your home to other outdoor functions. However, it may be the best answer for your dilemma in your backyard. A little cleaning is necessary with this type of lawn and garden furniture.

You need outdoor furniture, but you are limited on space, and the space you do have to use for outdoor activities can not support traditional garden furniture utilizing the area all the time. So, the area of your backyard can only be used for furniture on a temporary basis, or as needed. Lawn and garden furniture could be the answer you are looking for. Lawn and garden furniture are lightweight to allow them more mobility. They are designed to fold up, or stack in a secluded place.

The lawn and garden furniture constructed with the design to be folded was meant to be stored in a small space like in a closet or even under a bed. The lawn and garden furniture folded will fit neatly in the trunk of your car should the need occur. You can take your lawn and garden furniture to the league games, company picnics or maybe even those family outings like a camping trip. The use of lawn and garden furniture will suit almost any occasion and will be available in the time of dilemma.

The porch swing is also one of the options available in the wood accessories line. The maintenance and care for the wooden furniture as with the wicker should be a much simpler and easy task. As with the wicker home and garden furniture, wooden home and garden furniture is a great investment in the future for you and your home.

How often should the swing be refinished?

The answer to this question is not as simple. Many factors are to be considered when caring for your wood swing. Consider the weather where you live. Is it sunny and hot, cool and wet? Do you store the furniture in the winter? Cover it?

Consider the kind of look you like for your yard. If you decide not to refinish your wood swing, you may let it slowly weather to a silver/gray. Many love this look while others prefer to keep the 'like-new' look.

The sun and exposure to the elements change the color of the surfaces of the unprotected woods but does not affect the structural integrity of the wood. It really is a matter of what you like it to look like.

It is important to clean the furniture at least once a year whether or not you decide to keep the 'like-new' color or let it gray.

If your porch swing has been hanging around for years

Then it's time you checked it over for signs of fatigue that could spell danger. If you've come across an old porch swing at a yard sale or found one hidden in someone's garage, is it really safe, before hanging it up and trusting it with all your weight.

A good thing would be to check over the wood. Look for signs of splintering seat boards, rotting wood, cracks, or slats that could be splintering. Most of the time trouble spots can be repaired or re-enforced. If any slats are broken, cracked, or otherwise weakened, a woodworker can help you manufacture a matching piece to replace. Also, be sure to check the back, arms, and seat areas for splinters. Thoroughly sand these surfaces down until they are smooth and splinter free before refinishing.

What kind of wood is good to use outdoors?

Cypress is a beautiful, distinctive and durable wood that assures years of trouble-free satisfaction. Western Red Cedar is a fine-grain, stable wood that is a natural for weather resistance that will last a lifetime. Teak has a high oil and rubber content, a "built-in" natural water repellent, which makes it virtually immune to rotting.

What kind of weather finish should I use?

While there are many good products available, there are some features that you may want in a good weather finish.

Paint: Of all the exterior finishes, paint offers the best form of protection. However, paint will eventually peel and will be more unsightly over time than a wipe-on finish .

You can certainly paint your metal or wood swing if you so desire. Be sure to use a good primer on the clean, bare wood before applying the finish coat. In fact, most outdoor finishes will only last 1-3 years before they need to be renewed. It's up to you to periodically protect your resin wicker swing.

Oil vs. water based: Typically the oil based products last longer, but they are usually harder to clean up and more toxic to you and the environment. Water based products are generally easier to use and clean up.

Wet climate: If you live in a wet climate look for a product with a mold inhibitor.

Hot Climate: If you live in a dry climate , you should know that most good finishes will have UV protection in them and a yearly application is recommended. Whatever finishes you decide to use always consider your health and safety and follow all manufacturers' directions.

If you don't intend to renew the finish on your wood porch swing, the wood will turn a silvery grey color. Once the exterior of the wood is gray, the rate of wood deterioration slows tremendously. (The damage to the surface actually prevents UV light from penetrating to the interior of the wood.) So it is ok to let the wood natural properties protect against decay, rot and insect infestation.

How do I clean my porch swing?

A mild soap and water bath once a week is a good inexpensive way to start your painted porch swing care program. Just use a pan of warm soapy water and a cloth or paper towels. Follow up with clear water and rinse the soap off so that you don't end up with a soapy film on your decorative swing. Be sure that the surface is dry after washing.

A pressure washer makes cleaning super easy. Otherwise you can clean your porch swing with a soft brush and a good wood cleaner. Make sure to rinse well and allow drying thoroughly before applying any finish.

Spills should be wiped up as soon as they happen on your rustic porch swing, especially carbonated beverage spills, they can be very hard on clear finishes and paint if left sitting.

Do I need to store my wood porch swing in the winter?

It is always best if you can put the porch swing in the garage or shed for the winter. If you do not have a place to store the metal swing and you would like to cover it, just remember to make sure it is dry before you cover it. Tarps often can promote mold growth or will leak, so be careful.

Purchasing a Potting Bench

There are several factors that should be considered before purchasing a garden potting work bench or potting bench . The first thing is to make sure that the bench is made of high-quality materials and has a deep work area at the right height. You won't want to have to stoop or reach up to work at the bench.

Free Potting Bench
Plans HERE!

Make sure that the bench that you purchase one that has ample shelves above or below the workspace. One of the most important functions of a potting bench is to keep all your gardening supplies neatly organized in one spot.

As you are looking for a potting bench, you will notice that many are built using cedar wood.

Cedar potting benches are a great choice for a wooden potting bench if you are leaving it outdoors, as cedar wood is extremely resistant to rot or mold and insects. There are different types of cedar for a different color of cedar potting bench, the most popular being red or white cedar wood. Not only do cedar potting benches provide extra storage and work space, they also protect your tools from insects.

Determine whether or not you will want to have a removable container that can hold potting soil or be used to collect dirt that falls from your re-potted plants. Some benches have a handy raised wood edge that keeps the dirt from spilling. This can make a mess in your backyard or patio.

A high-quality potting bench will last for years to come.

Uses

A potting bench is the ideal table for potting, re-potting, and other gardening jobs. Start your seedlings at this work station. Keep your garden journal close by and write notes into when plants were planted. Keep track of which plant you will want to transplant next spring and what week your favorite flowers bloomed. The bench top should provide a good solid surface to work or keep your notes on.

A garden work bench also is the great space to store many of your hand tools and garden pots. This will help you keep them within easy reach at all times. With a potting bench, all your gardening tools and supplies are close at hand.

Potting benches provide a great surface for outdoor parties and a good place to store BBQ and grill supplies.

They're not just for gardeners. Anyone who needs an attractive place to store supplies would benefit from a potting bench.

Where ever you place your potting bench, you're sure to appreciate it. While the backyard or patio is the ideal spot for any garden potting work bench, some prefer to keep them in the garage or large shed.

Potting Bench Maintenance

In general, it's a good idea to thoroughly clean the bench once or twice a season. Remove all supplies and use a hose with a strong nozzle to thoroughly spray off the potting bench. Or you can always wipe down the bench with a soft cloth and mild soap or wood cleaner, then rinse and allow it to dry.

If you live in areas with harsh winters, it's a good idea to store your garden potting work bench in a garage or storage shed during those months. If that's not possible, consider placing it close to the house and covering it with an outdoor furniture cover similar to those used for BBQ grills.

Every gardener needs a good-size work surface and a place to keep tools and supplies organized. A potting bench is the perfect solution.

- Shop all Rope hammocks Rope hammocks are the most recognized style of hammock as well as the most traditional. All rope hammocks include spreader bars. Spreader bars separate the sides of the hammock, keeping it open to lie in, and support weight from the bed of the hammock when in use. Rope hammocks can be hung between two trees or used on a stand outdoors. We offer a variety of size options along with an option for a smaller space.

Rope hammocks are generally made of cotton or polyester.

Cotton is slightly more comfortable as the rope will stretch and contour to the body. However, cotton rope absorbs moisture which makes it more susceptible to mildew.
Polyester is more durable and withstands high humidity, salt water air and UV rays. It's less susceptible to mold and mildew, which means it will last longer. Polyester rope is slightly less flexible than cotton, but that does not mean it is any less comfortable.

Rope Hammock Tips:

• Most rope hammocks are 13' in overall length so unless you choose to use a stand, your trees should be 13-17' apart.
• Due to the large space that the rope weave creates, we don't recommend rope hammocks if you have young children.

Quilted hammocks offer full-bodied comfort and are perfect for cooler climates. A quilted hammock is similar in style to that of a rope hammock and also includes wooden spreader bars. Instead of a woven bed like a rope hammock, a quilted hammock consists of two layers of fabric with a fiberfill in between the layers. It is similar in feel to a light comforter. Our quilted hammock options are made from various weather and fade resistant fabrics. Similar to rope hammocks, quilted hammocks can be hung between two trees or used on a stand outdoors. This is a great option for families as there are no holes or gaps for small hands and feet to slip through.

Quilted Hammock Tips:

• Quilted hammocks are reversible, usually with a pattern on one side and a solid on the opposite. It's like purchasing two hammocks in one!

Mayan style hammocks are thin string hand woven hammocks that originated in Central America and are known for their bright colors and unique aesthetic appeal. The Mayan weave is very flexible yet incredibly supportive. Our Mayan hammocks are made in the Yucatan province in Mexico and are of exceptional quality. Most of our Mayan hammocks are non-spreader bar style and are made of either cotton or nylon. The cotton Mayan hammocks are softer and also contour to your body slightly more. Because the string is natural cotton fiber, the cotton Mayan hammocks are less durable if used outdoors. The nylon mayans are more durable and are less susceptible to mold or mildew. The colors are also slightly brighter due to the sheen of the nylon string.

Mayans are great for backpackers, rock-climbers and campers. They are extremely light weight but have the ability to hold large amounts of weight. Mayans can be used outdoor on a stand or between two trees as well as indoors by inserting hooks in wall studs or ceiling beams. They are great for all climates and are especially convenient for small apartments and dorm rooms for extra ?seating? or even an extra place to sleep.

Mayan Hammock Tips:

• String hammocks are amazingly strong but can be easily damaged. Sharp objects, buttons and zippers can damage the intricate weave so take this into consideration. We offer a Thick String Mayan Hammock that offers the same comfort but with much thicker string, making it a more durable choice.
• Due to their intricate weave, Mayan hammocks do not typically last as long as Rope or Quilted hammocks

Brazilian hammocks are crafted from cotton fibers that are hand woven tightly into beautiful thick fabrics that are extremely comfortable and a little better for cooler climates. They are traditionally known for their wide variety of colors as well as elaborate fringe that offers a unique look. Most of our Brazilian hammocks are a non-spreader bar style although we do offer a couple spreader bar options. These hammocks are especially great for families with children. Because the bed of the hammock is solid with no gaps, there is no worry for small fingers and toes getting caught or tangled in the hammock. This also means there is minimal air flow through the hammock so they most comfortable when used in cooler climates or on cooler summer nights. All of our Brazilian hammocks are made from cotton and can be used either indoors or outdoors.

Brazilian Hammock Tips:

• If you are interested in a Brazilian hammock but are wary of the non-spreader bar "cocoon" style, we suggest the Large Brazilian Hammock w/Spreader bars. This allows you the comfort of the Brazilian cotton hammock with a more open bed similar to that of a rope or quilted hammock.

Our Nicaraguan hammocks are uniquely hand crafted hammocks that offer wonderful comfort and beauty. They are crafted in Central America by artisans using soft spun cotton cords and a double weave technique. The weave is similar to that of the Mayan hammocks although much tighter, meaning the weave is more durable and harder to snag. Nicaraguan hammocks are typically non-spreader bar style. These hammocks are great for couples and can be used in any climate. The unique weave allows just the right amount of air flow for maximum comfort. Many of the Nicaraguan hammocks are also available with unique macramae fringe. Nicaraguans can be used indoors or outdoors but should not be left outside for extended periods of time when not in use.

Nicaraguan Hammock Tips:

• The Nicaraguan weave is tighter than that of a mayan hammock but can also be easily damaged, so remove any sharp objects or items on clothing that could snap or harm the hammock.

Our Poolside hammocks are made just for those that want a nice place to relax by the pool, ocean or on the beach. These hammocks are made from exceptional fabrics, which is why our poolside hammocks are our most durable option. A poolside hammock is a great option for anyone in warmer climates or those who are close to salt water areas. These hammocks are made to be more fade resistant and less susceptible to mold and mildew damage and are primarily meant to be used outdoors. They also are quick drying which is perfect for a poolside area. All of our poolside hammocks are spreader bar style and are available in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Due to the toughness and durability of the fabric the poolside hammocks are less comfortable than other spreader bar styles such as the quilted or rope hammocks. These hammocks can be used between trees as well as on one of our stand options.

Poolside Hammock Tips:

• For easy clean up, wash with a solution of liquid soap in lukewarm water. Rinse thoroughly and air dry. One cup of bleach per gallon of water may be added to the above solution for mildew stains.

Our Camping hammock selection offers a great option for anyone from an occasional vacationer to an avid outdoorsman. Camping hammocks are lightweight, portable and some are also great protectors from the elements. Camping hammocks are typically hung between two trees and some even have a built-in stand. All of our camping hammocks are made from extremely durable materials such as parachute nylon.

Pedestal - supports the grill itself with a wide base and is generally designed to be secured in a fixed location. Although some have small wheels, the base is normally attached to your deck or patio with bolts and screws.

Posts - are literally posts made of steel or aluminum that support the grill itself. They are buried in the ground (often secured by concrete) so they don't move. A post mount grill is specifically designed to match the correct post.

Built-in - just like it sounds, these grills fit into a specific space like a counter top. They perform the same way as other grills, just in a permanent setting. Built-in grills are popular with people that want or have outdoor kitchens.

Carts - the vast majority of grills are built on a cart which usually includes wheels. This allows you to move your grill as necessary, especially on windy days. Remember that if you have natural gas, your mobility is limited.

Hampton Hanging Planter

If you want to grow plants with eatable fruits such as strawberries or tomatoes, there are many creative ways to grow these plants, such as in hanging baskets, in small confined spaces.

Tudor Window Box

A window box is a perfect spot for growing herbs that will be used fresh from your garden patio to the current spaghetti sauce or other savory dish. Wall art can be hung on the wall nearest your garden patio to complete the look of your garden treasure patio. To add shading to your garden treasure patio you can find a trellis and incorporate a sprouting vine to the spaces.
is a much larger area, you can find additional novelty items to enhance the atmosphere of your garden treasure patio. You may want to turn a small space into a kitchen or grilling area for those outdoor barbecues.

Victorian Water Fountain with Cherub Riding a Dolphin

For the warmer months, a small fountain gives the garden treasure patio a peaceful ambience. The soothing sound of running water will aid in relaxing you while you read or just rejuvenate yourself from a hard day at work. A fountain will not be a distraction when entertaining guests, instead would add a measure of character to your garden treasure patio.

Venice Copper Fire Pit -35 or 40-inch

For the cooler months, a fireplace would be another highlight to your garden treasure patio. The warmth of a fire and watching the glow of burning embers is as peaceful and soothing as the fountain in the warmer months.

Your garden treasure patio might be in need of shading from the scorching sun during the hot summer months or maybe to protect you and your guests from a quiet falling rain in the spring. Then you will want to check into awnings, canopies, or other structures made for the purpose of adding cover. An umbrella works for a small space. If, however you are looking to cover a much larger region, you will need a much larger cover.

Instant Gazebo! 10 ft Offset Umbrella with Mosquito Netting

These coverings come in several different sizes and construction. You will want to find what works best for you in your situation.

You may want to incorporate large tropical plants to your garden treasure patio. If so you will find an array of large pots and huge tropical plants to pick from. If you like the whimsical, you will discover small or large woodland creatures from gnomes, to squirrels to cute puppies that will add a special touch to your garden treasure patio.