We are sharing step by step as we build a DIY gazebo swing in a beautiful backyard! This is Step 8: How to install the swing beams. This gazebo swing uses 2×8 beam style beams instead of traditional thicker square beams. Read on to find out why!
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DIY Gazebo Swing Beams
As I mentioned in the last segment about wood beam supports, I designed this gazebo swing to match more of the design of a traditional pergola than the thicker design of the raw cedar pergola I built. This design doesn’t require much engineering and the 2×8 swing beams get the job done. redwood wood 2×8 It is also available quite frequently, saving time and money compared to custom ordering a special thick swing beam.
For a children’s swing or a larger application, such as a swing pergola with fire pit, a thicker beam is a must. But for this 2 person gazebo swing, the 2×8 beam is enough to support the weight. Porch swings like the ones this gazebo holds are designed to support more weight using porch swing hanging hardware, and 2-seater bench swings also experience less range of motion than a swing with a kiddie belt or trapeze bars, so the swing beam requirements are different.
Freestanding swing beams for swings are often used A-Frame Brackets Like These so that the swing frame is easy to assemble. Swing stands typically require a 4×6 swing beam, which can be attached to a playhouse, play tower, or bars for added strength. These brackets usually come kits with hardware components as rebar stakes to anchor the swing to the ground as well.
Since these 8×8 swing posts are dipped in plastisol and set deep into the ground on concrete bases for a sturdier foundation, there will be no issues with stability no matter how many kids want to climb on the porch swing. The set of 4 redwood swing beams will last well in the weather and provide the security needed to swing safely for many years, while still looking stylish!
Due to the setup of this project, I installed 2 rafter joists on one side, then trimmed the posts to the correct height, carefully using a chainsaw. (Read my tips for chainsaw safety here). You could then finish installing the other 2 rafter beams on the other end of the wooden support beams.
How to Install 2×8 Swing Beams/Arbor Beams
After cutting the swing beam/gazebo beams to size (with the beam tails cut beautifully!), here’s how to install the swing gazebo beams:
- Place a beam on top of the wooden support beams, next to the post. Measure to center the joist beam and check that it is level.
- Pre-drill 4 holes to attach the beam to the post and then drive in the 6-inch lag bolts.
- Measure and mark the midpoint between that beam and the end of the wooden support beam.
- Place the joist beam in that location, check to make sure it is square and level, and secure the joist to the support beam with 1 or 2 3-inch screws on each end, drilled at an angle (which can be called “nailing”) .
- Repeat the same with the 2 swing beam beams on the opposite side of the post and the support beam.
Now I hear your concern: are a pair of screws strong enough To keep those 2 outside swing beams in place? On their own, maybe not, but that’s why we’ll install the top lattice straps next for additional support. (And then I’ll also install the second set of wooden support beams for added stability.)
Stay tuned and subscribe to see how I install the top cross purlins, stain the posts, and add a paver patio, until the finished project is revealed!
Step by step: DIY gazebo swing
We’ll share the details step by step as we go, until the beautiful final reveal! Here are all the steps:
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I am the husband of the amazing Cassity from Remodelaholic. I love solving problems and designing and building things inside and outside the house to make life better. I am a professional landscape architect by trade and love the outdoors.
Lorene has been behind the scenes here at Remodelaholic for over a decade! She believes that planning projects and completing them are two different hobbies, but that doesn’t stop her from planning at least a dozen projects at any given time. She spends her free time making memories with her husband and her five children, traveling as far as she can and reading books in any format available.
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