How can I restore a porch swing without a cross bar for the back?

Andrea Whitmire
by Andrea Whitmire

The swing has crossbars for the seat, but nothing for the back, just the metal frame. I'd like to use treated wood for back support, but don't know how to attach it to the metal frame. Any ideas?


  6 answers
  • Ken Erickson Ken Erickson on Jul 27, 2020

    Drill holes in the metal frame and your wood. Fasten with galvanized huts, washers, and bolts. Best I can suggest without a photo.

  • Annie Annie on Jul 27, 2020

    Can you post a photo? It would help to see your swing

    • See 1 previous
    • Annie Annie on Jul 27, 2020

      Hopefully you can get it worked out!

  • GrandmasHouseDIY GrandmasHouseDIY on Jul 27, 2020

    I agree with first answer. Diamond bits for a drill will make the holes you need through the steel then you can bolt the wood and steel together.

  • Lifestyles Homes Lifestyles Homes on Jul 27, 2020

    If the frame isn’t big enough to “through bolt”, then you could use exterior grade sheet metal screws.

    If it’s too thin for that, then design a “sleeve” with the wood and slip the sleeve over the top frame rail and then through-bolt the wood to wood sleeve.

    • Andrea Whitmire Andrea Whitmire on Jul 27, 2020

      Thanks for your response - I believe the frame will be big enough to through bolt. Great idea regarding making a sleeve!

  • Kmdreamer Kmdreamer on Jul 27, 2020

    Use a 2 by 4 for the back add a couple of them

  • Cindy Cindy on Aug 02, 2020

    Hi Andrea. You could use "U" bolts to attach the wood to the metal frame. I love a porch swing. It gives you the perfect opportunity to wave at your neighbors when they pass by. And, of course, cookies and sweet tea is all that is required. Good luck Andrea.