About Tire Swings

Tire swings may have become rarer than they used to be, but they are by no means extinct. With the environment being plagued with waste more than ever, recycling an old tire into a swing can actually serve an eco-friendly purpose. Large tractor or truck tires are best for a swing, but tire swings have also advanced to include swings that don't resemble a tire at all. Regardless of the shape or size, tire swings can still be an awful lot of fun.

Significance

Tire swings are an American icon. Some folks may be beckoned back to their own childhoods where the tire swing was a major staple. Others will be coaxed to think of a relaxing life in the country, where tire swings once hung with quiet abandon. The tire swing is inviting to most everyone, calling out for a carefree and fun experience to anyone who obliges to sit on it.

Types

The most basic tire swing consists of a tire on its side with a rope secured around the top. The top of the rope is usually attached to a strong tree limb or other type of frame. Tire swings can also be made with the tire laid flat and ropes or chains riveted through the top of a tire. This type needs at least three chains secured in a triangular shape, or four chains, with two on each side of the tire.

Features

Ropes and chains secured through holes in the tire are obvious features of the tire swing. One less obvious feature, but no less important, are holes drilled through the bottom of the tire so rainwater and other liquid do not collect inside the tire. Tire swings can be left as is or painted a bright, cheery color to entice kids to play.

Potential

Some of the most advanced tire swings are still constructed from a basic tire, but major adjustments have been made. Tires can be cut into bucket swings and thick tire strips can be used to make flat swings. Tire swings can even go a few miles further in creativity and be cut to resemble motorcycles, horses, dragons and other shapes on which kids can sit and swing. See Resources below to see an array of tire swings cut and constructed into elaborate animal shapes.

Warning

Tire swings can be hazardous to your health if some precautions aren't taken. Making sure the rope or chain is very secure on the swing is a must. Holes drilled through the tire to attach the ropes or chains should fit snugly around them. A square knot should be used for the ends of the ropes inside the swing and a piece of wood or other material can be tied through the knots inside the swing for further security. Chains can be attached with nuts and bolts.
One more caveat is making sure the tire has enough room to swing. Tire swings often spin and veer in many directions. The swing should have a large circle of room in which to move without smashing into a tree trunk or other structure. Whatever is supporting the swing should also be thick and sturdy enough to handle the weight and motion from someone swinging in all directions.

Resources

• Animal tire swings