Relax on a metal glider with fabric cushions.
A glider bench is a stationary piece of outdoor furniture that has a gliding motion similar to a swing. A glide hammock was the original name for this invention, according to PatioLivingPlus.com. Nowadays, it's also called an outdoor glider. You can buy glider benches in numerous materials and a large variety of styles, or even make one yourself using a pattern or do-it-yourself kit. Does this Spark an idea?
Types
Think of any type of bench with a backing, and most likely you can find the style as a glider bench. Glider benches are available in metal, fabric with metal, various types of wood, high-density plastic, wood and plastic composites, and wicker. They're sold in numerous styles such as Adirondack, classic log, mission and retro metal design benches. The glider bench is generally designed to seat two or three adults comfortably, and some versions are made just for kids. Some glider benches have matching chairs, and cushions are also available.
Advantages
A glider bench gives you the relaxation of a swing with the convenience of a stationary bench. Since you don't have to suspend the bench as you would a swing, you can place it anywhere you like. You might like a glider bench on your porch, patio or deck, or in the yard or garden. Glider benches can hold more weight than porch swings because they stand on a flat surface rather than being suspended.
Cleaning
You can clean most glider benches with a little water and mild soap, according to PorchSwings.com. Furniture manufacturers commonly apply an outdoor varnish to wooden gliders and a rust-inhibiting coating to metal gliders. This protects the material not only from inclement weather but from soap and water. In addition, some soaps are made especially for use on wood. Read the instructions to make sure this method of cleaning is OK. To clean a plastic glider bench, simply hose it off and wipe it with soap wherever more intensive cleaning is needed.
Off-Season Care
Many gliders are marketed as all-weather products. To keep your bench in excellent condition, cover it during the off-season or store it in a shed or garage. All-wood outdoor furniture generally is most sensitive to weather, but certain types of metal may rust as the resistant coating wears away. Proper off-season care is particularly important if you live in a climate with harsh winters.
Tags: glider bench, glider benches, outdoor furniture