How to Install a Porch Swing with Rope [Like a Pro]

Whether you’ve recently built your own DIY porch swing with rope, or you want to reinforce your porch swing with rope for years of trusted use, we’re here to help guide you with the right rope porch swing hardware, how-to instructions, and safety tips to ensure you accomplish your mission for years of safe swinging.

Let’s jump right in with what rope porch swing hardware you’ll need to get the job done right.

Rope Porch Swing Hardware: What You’ll Need

• Two ropes (one for each side of the swing). Either ¾” or 1” thick. We recommend marine-grade nylon rope or polyester rope for long lasting durability. To achieve the natural look of rope with extra durability, you’ll love the Twisted ProManila Rope.
• Permanent marker
• Tape measure
• Drill
• ¼” Drill bit
• Two 1/2” Eye screws at least 4” long
• Screwdriver

*PRO TIP: If you prefer to buy a hanger kit, you can skip the eye screws altogether.

How to Install a Porch Swing with Rope

1. Locate Your Ceiling Joists

The only safe way to hang a porch swing is to secure it into a stable ceiling joist that can support the weight of the swing and its guests. Your ceiling joist should be made of strong, wood free of rot, decay, or knots. If you cannot see your joists, you may need to remove pieces of your wood paneling to find them. Always ensure joists are in safe condition before hanging anything weight bearing accessories from them.

2. Measure & Mark Your Rope Placement

Once you’ve located your ceiling joist, it’s time to determine where you want to hang your DIY rope porch swing and measure the spots where your eye screws will be secured. To do this, measure the distance from one of the swings rope holes to the other with your tape measure Then, add two to four inches to each side. This will ensure an even weight distribution and prevent the ropes from rubbing against the swing. Mark this distance on your joists.

*PRO TIP: When mapping out your porch swing placement, try to allow for at least 18 inches behind the swing, and between 14 and 16 inches to each side of the swing for proper clearance. The swing should sit anywhere between 12 to 20 inches from the porch floor, based on your preferences.

3. Drill Pilot Holes Into Joist

With your ¼” drill bit, drill the pilot holes into the ceiling joist. Make sure these holds are deep enough for your eye screw to completely secure into.

4. Secure Eye Screws Into Pilot Holes

With your pilot holes drilled, insert and secure eye screws. Use a long screwdriver to tighten down eye screws as much as possible.

5. Hang Your Rope & Attach to the Swing

With your eye screws secured, loop through your rope. Attach the ends to the swing using a hitch knot or double bowline knot. Now, enjoy your swing!

Stay in the Loop on New DIYs at SGT KNOTS

No matter what your DIY projects entail, SGT KNOTS has today’s trusted rope and cord products, you need to tackle your projects with ease and affordability in the bag. Shop SGT KNOTS today to find the right rope for every DIY project and all of life’s adventures. Visit the SGT KNOTS Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest page today for more DIY inspiration, and to see how other DIY masters utilize their SGT KNOTS ropes when building Backyard Rope Swings, Outdoor Rope Fences, and more!