Is your patio furniture looking a little worn? Sagging or torn slings on your patio chairs can detract from your outdoor space’s comfort and appeal. Replacing them is a fantastic DIY project that can breathe new life into your existing furniture, saving you money and adding a personal touch. This guide will walk you through the process of patio chair sling replacement, ensuring your chairs are ready for relaxation and enjoyment in no time.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Patio Chair Slings
1. Accurate Sling Measurement and Ordering
Before you begin, precision is key. You’ll need to measure your chairs to order the correct replacement slings. Width is measured from the center of one side rail to the center of the opposite rail at the bolt locations, typically found at the top and bottom of the sling. For the length, use a flexible cloth tape measure and follow the curve of the top face of one rail. Ordering the right size is crucial for a snug and professional-looking finish. Many suppliers, like Chair Care LLC, offer guides and custom sling options to ensure a perfect fit.
2. Removing the Old Sling
Start by preparing the chair for sling removal. Use a utility knife to cut down the middle of the old sling. Since damaged slings are not reusable, this step allows for easier removal. Next, detach the end caps from each side rail of the chair.
3. Sling Removal and Frame Preparation
With the sling cut and end caps removed, slide the two halves of the old sling out of the tracks in the chair rails. Loosen the bolts that secure the rails to the chair frame – don’t remove them entirely just yet. Pop out the spreader bar, a component that helps maintain the chair’s shape and sling tension. With the sling removed, this is an ideal opportunity to touch up or repaint the chair frame, addressing any wear and tear for a refreshed look. Resources like online guides offer excellent frame touch-up techniques.
4. Installing the New Sling
To install the new sling, fully remove one of the side rails from the chair frame. Orient the new sling with the hemmed side facing the back of the chair. Slide one of the sling’s nylon rods into the track of the rail that remains attached to the chair frame.
5. Securing the New Sling in Place
Take the rail you detached earlier and slide it over the remaining nylon rod of the new sling. Bolt this rail back onto the chair frame. Now, tighten the bolts you loosened on the opposite rail. Adjusting these bolts will allow you to create the desired tautness for the new sling, ensuring a comfortable seating surface.
6. Reattaching the Spreader Bar
Reinsert the spreader bar into its position. You might need to use a pipe clamp to gently spread the rails slightly to create enough space for the bar. If necessary, carefully bend the spreader bar a small amount to help it fit. Once in place, use a rubber mallet to gently tap the bar and restore its original shape and position, ensuring proper chair structure and sling tension. A patio spreader tool could potentially assist in spreading the rails, though a pipe clamp is generally effective.
7. Finalizing with Rod Trim and End Caps
Using wire cutters, trim any excess nylon rod so that it is flush with the ends of the chair rails. Finally, push the end caps back onto the rails to complete the clean and finished look of your newly slinged patio chair.
Professional Sling Replacement Services
While DIY sling replacement is achievable, Chair Care LLC offers professional services for those who prefer expert installation. They provide custom sling replacements in a wide array of fabrics and colors to match your patio décor. If you’d rather leave the installation to professionals, Chair Care offers pickup and delivery services in CT, NY, NJ, MA, RI, VT, NH, and ME. Their expert service guarantees a perfect fit and revitalized patio chairs. Contact them today for a free quote and explore their extensive fabric selection to transform your patio furniture.
