Five Tips for Making Tire Swings
Support
You need to make sure the swing will have proper support. Tire swings should be supported by a branch that is at least 10 feet above the ground. The thickness of the branch that you use can vary depending on how far the swing is from the trunk of the trunk. As a rule of thumb, any branches that you use to support tire swings should be six inches thick.
Water
Over time, rainwater will start to collect in the tire. The water will become stagnant and make a suitable breeding ground for bacteria and various parasites. You can prevent rainwater from collecting in tire swings by puncturing holes in the bottom of the tire. You should also prevent leaves from collecting in the tire and covering up the holes you have made.
Branch
Prolonged use of tire swings will damage the supporting branch if you don’t protect it. The best way to protect the branch is to use a piece of rubber hose in combination with the rope that holds the swing. The rubber hose should be placed on top of the branch to shield it from the swinging rope.
Tire
It is best to use older tires to make tire swings. Newer tires usually have steel belts manufactured within the tire. Over time, the metal may break through aged tire and harm whoever is using the swing. You should also make sure any tires you use to make tire swings is thoroughly washed inside and out and prevent your clothes from getting dirty rubber marks.
Height
You don’t want your tire swings to be too close to the ground or they will be difficult to use. After you have setup and started using the swing, the rope will start to stretch out. After a few days of using it, you may have to adjust the height of the swing to make up for the stretching.
These are a few tips for making tire swings. Make sure you use a tree branch that is at least 10 feet above the ground and at least six inches thick. You should also puncture holes in the bottom of tire swings to prevent rainwater from collecting inside. Also, try not to use newer tires to make tire swings because they usually have steel belts that will break through the tire over time.
