Metal and Wooden Glider Bench and Benches

Gliding benches are similar to rockers in the way they work. They could be also described as rocking chairs for more then one person! But rather like rocking chairs that “rock” up and down as well as forward and backward, glider benches “glide”, hence the name, forward and backward in a far smoother motion. The base stays stable and the upper part glides on rails or similar. As the lower part stays stable, there is less risk of tipping a glider bench, then for example, a rocking chair. And other then, for example, porch swings, they don't need any additional, external support like chains. Which makes them especially comfortable and safe for older people and children. Glider benches come in many different materials or combinations thereof.

Perhaps the best known and most used material for glider benches is wood, teak, mahogany, cedar and even eucalyptus wood is used. Wood glider benches come either in “wood only”, means base and top are made only of wood or a in combinations with metal. Then the base, and often also the arms, are made from metal whilst the seat is made from wood. Before deciding on one particular model, you should enquire if the wood needs further treatment after you have assembled the bench or if that is done already. Take for example the model on the right, the hugely popular “SunSetter Classic Glider Bench”, it requires some assembly work and some wood treatment, but it comes with free shipping. Actually from all the models I have seen so far, it is my favorite because of the great price / value ratio!

Polyethylene is used for this kind of glider benches for the seat and rust-resistant metal is used for arms and base. Their main advantages are that they are resistant against humidity (important if you live in a hot-humid climate), light (easy to move around) and easy to clean (wiping with a damp cloth normally does the trick). Some assembly will be required if you choose the model on the right, but as it is made from polyethylene, no further treatment is necessary. Another favorite model of mine, as it is great, if you have children that tend to spill things and need an easy to clean glider bench. It is also very climate and weather resistant and requires little additional care. Other advantages include that they are so strong that they will not not crack, chip or peel and are resistant to UV-light. Their surface is stain-resistant and extremely easy to clean. Just a cloth and a bit of hot, soapy water will suffice. The material is also “amenable” enough to mold it into contoured and comfortable shapes. They come in many colors to choose from and make a fantastic show piece for your garden, patio, porch, lawn or backyard and are made in such a way that they can be left outside in most climates the whole year round.

They are great for climates where wood dries out quickly and / or metal gets too hot in the sun.