Refreshing the sling on your pool furniture is an effective way to extend its life and rejuvenate your outdoor space. Over time, the sling fabric can become worn, faded, or damaged due to constant exposure to the elements. Instead of discarding the entire piece of furniture, replacing the sling provides a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of replacing the sling on a metal frame, ensuring your pool furniture looks and functions like new, ready for many more seasons of enjoyment.
Clear Instructions on How to Replace the Sling on a Metal Frame Chaise Lounge
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Required Tools:
- Diagonal cutters
- Wrench set
- Socket set
- Impact drill
- Rubber mallet
- Plain ivory soap
- 2 x 600 lbs. reversible spreader/bar clamp tools
- Bottle of Windex
- Rag
- Soft jaw pliers
- Flathead screwdriver
- A thick blanket, fabric, or carpeted area
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Re-sling the Chaise Headrest
Remove the Headrest:
1. Use the appropriate wrench and socket to loosen the two lower bolts that connect the headrest to the frame. Use one hand to hold the nut in place with the wrench while using an impact drill with a socket to remove the bolt.
Remove the Glides:
2. Remove the top two end caps (glides) by carefully wedging a flathead screwdriver underneath them and wiggling them back and forth until they pop off the rails. Take care not to damage the end caps so they can be reused.
Remove the Old Sling:
3. Use the two bar clamps to compress the sides of the headrest underneath the horizontal support bars on the frame until the sling is slightly slack.
4. Pull the sling straight out of the rails from the top where the end caps are removed.
Install the New Sling:
5. Clean the rails with Windex in preparation for the new sling.
6. With the fabric tag facing up, trim the bottom cord of the new sling with the diagonal cutters so it is flush with the fabric.
7. Insert the new sling into the rails’ track and slide it all the way down, making sure the trimmed side is slid first with the tag facing towards the back. If you encounter difficulty sliding the sling, spray Windex on the rails for a smoother installation.
8. Release both bar clamp tools.
9. Use the soft jaw pliers to gently pull on both the left and right ends of the sling, making sure the cord is fully lowered into the rails.
10. Trim the top cord with the diagonal cutters of the new sling flush with the rails.
11. Tap the end caps on the rails with the rubber mallet.
Re-sling the Chaise Bed
Remove the Bed:
1. Flip the chaise frame upside down on a thick soft blanket, piece of fabric, or a carpeted surface to prevent scratches.
2. Use the correctly sized wrench and socket to loosen the six bottom bolts. Hold the nut in place with the wrench in one hand while using a socket impact drill to remove the bolt with the other. If needed, use a rubber mallet to tap the body off of the bolts once the nuts are removed.
Remove the Glides:
3. Remove the two top-end caps (glides) by wedging a flathead screwdriver underneath and moving them back and forth until they pop off the rails. Be careful to avoid damaging the end caps so they can be reused.
Remove the Old Sling:
4. Pull the sling straight out of the rails from the top.
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Install the New Sling:
5. Clean the rails in preparation for the new sling with Windex.
6. Trim the bottom cord with the diagonal cutters of the new sling so it is flush with the fabric.
7. Insert the new sling into the rails’ track and slide it all the way down, making sure the trimmed side is slid first. If you encounter difficulty sliding the sling, spray Windex on the rails for a smoother installation.
Reassemble the Chaise
Lubricate the Bolts:
1. It is recommended to coat the bolt threads with plain ivory soap (apply dry), to prevent the bolts from seizing. This will decrease the likelihood of the current hardware breaking under tension.
Reattach the Bed to the Frame:
2. With the chaise frame flipped over, align the bed sling with the remaining end caps, facing towards the feet, and check that the fold stitching is facing upward. Be sure to position the folds upwards so they are not visible when the chaise is in the correct orientation. Keep in mind that certain chaise models have a foot end bar that may hinder access to the end caps once the sling is pulled tight.
3. Put all six bolts in the frame.
4. Guide one side of the rails onto the bolts and secure them in place by hand-tightening the nut. Do not impact tighten the hardware at this point.
5. Place the spreader bar beneath the bolt location and use it to guide the opposite side onto the bolts. Hand-tighten the nuts while providing tension with the spreader bar.
6. After placing all bolts, use the socketed impact and wrench, along with the spreader bar, to firmly fasten the hardware and increase tension on the rail, ultimately bringing it closer to the frame. To prevent any damage to the rail or frame, gradually tighten each bolt in a rotating manner until all bolts are completely tightened.
7. Remove the spreader bars.
8. Use the soft jaw pliers to gently pull on both the left and right ends of the sling, making sure the cord is fully lowered into the rails.
9. Trim the top cord with the diagonal cutters of the new sling flush with the rails.
10. Reassemble the end caps onto the rails using the rubber mallet before attaching the headrest, as it may block the end of the rail.
Reattach the Headrest to the Frame:
11. Return the chaise right side up.
12. Align the headrest, reinsert all bolts, and hand-tighten the nut to hold it in place.
13. Tighten the bolts using the wrench and socket impact driver.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully re-slung your chaise lounge. Enjoy your newly refreshed chaise lounge.
To efficiently prolong the lifespan of your chaise lounge, utilize the appropriate tools and follow these steps. Keep in mind that the instructions may vary depending on the model.
To re-sling a patio chair, the following steps can also be applied. Certain chair designs feature a one-piece sling for the backrest and seat. The bucket rails must be separated from the frame, similar to a chaise bed, and the re-slinging procedure is comparable to that of a chaise headrest.
Why Replacing the Sling on Pool Furniture is a Good Idea?
Replacing the sling on your pool furniture is a smart, economical, and eco-friendly choice. Here are the key reasons why you should consider this option:
It Saves Money
Replacing just the sling on your pool furniture is significantly more cost-effective than purchasing an entirely new set. The high costs associated with shipping full sets of pool furniture are due to their size and weight. By ordering only the sling fabric and hiring a maintenance person for the installation, you can drastically reduce expenses.
Moreover, commercial-grade pool furniture frames typically last over 10 years, while the sling seating may last around 5 years if properly maintained. Replacing the sling can effectively double or triple the furniture's lifespan, allowing you to maximize your initial investment and avoid the frequent, higher costs of complete replacements. This approach not only saves money but also ensures your outdoor space remains functional and visually appealing for many years.
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Enhances Aesthetics
Replacing the sling on your pool furniture is an effective way to revitalize its appearance without the expense and hassle of replacing the entire collection. This simple upgrade can keep your outdoor space looking fresh, modern, and cohesive. Whether you are following the latest design trends or simply seeking a change, new slings offer the flexibility to achieve a uniform and coordinated look across all your pool furniture. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also ensures that your outdoor area remains stylish and inviting for years to come.
Better for the Environment
By choosing to replace only the sling on your pool furniture instead of discarding the entire piece, you significantly reduce waste that ends up in landfills, a crucial step in minimizing your environmental footprint. Ordering replacement slings requires much less packaging compared to new furniture sets, which often come in large boxes with extensive protective materials. This reduction in packaging waste contributes to a more sustainable approach to maintaining your outdoor furniture. Moreover, shipping smaller items like slings consumes less fuel, leading to lower carbon emissions. This not only saves money but also supports broader efforts to reduce environmental impact.
What to Keep in Mind when Considering Replacing Slings on Your Patio Furniture?
Replacing the slings on your patio furniture can breathe new life into your outdoor space, but there are several factors to consider to ensure the process is smooth and effective.
Assess the Condition of the Frames
Before investing in new slings, it's crucial to thoroughly inspect the condition of your furniture frames. Ensure that the frames are still sturdy and free from any significant damage, such as cracks, rust, or structural weaknesses. Pay special attention to joints and connections, as these areas are prone to wear and tear. If you discover that the frames are in poor condition or beyond repair, it might not be worthwhile to replace the slings. Instead, consider whether replacing the entire piece of furniture would be a safe, more cost-effective, and practical solution. By taking the time to evaluate the state of your furniture frames, you can make a more informed decision and ensure the longevity and safety of your outdoor seating.
Ensuring Proper Fit When Replacing Patio Furniture Slings
Knowing the brand of your patio furniture is crucial for finding compatible sling replacements. Different brands have specific designs and dimensions, so identifying the manufacturer ensures you get the right fit. Check for labels or branding on the furniture or refer to any original purchase documents. Suppliers can often look up your order and provide replacement costs if they still carry that model.
All is not lost if you can't identify the brand or don't have the original receipt. You can still order a replacement sling based on precise dimensions. Measure the length and width of the old sling, as well as the distance between the attachment points on the frame. Accurate measurements are essential to avoid ill-fitting slings that compromise comfort and appearance. Keep in mind that custom replacements are typically non-refundable, so order a single sling as a test before committing to replacements for your entire pool deck. This may extend the time on the re-sling project but helps avoid costly mistakes and ensures you get the best fit for your furniture.
Color Matching may not Work
When ordering a new sling for your patio furniture, it's important to note that even if you choose the same color as the original, they may not look the same. The existing sling may have faded over time due to sun and chemical exposure. This fading can occur despite the fabric's fade-resistant properties, leading to noticeable color discrepancies. To maintain a uniform look across your furniture, consider updating all slings at once. If you opt to replace just one sling, be prepared for a slight color difference. This approach ensures that your outdoor space remains visually cohesive and appealing.
Choose High-Quality Materials
When replacing the sling on your patio furniture, invest in high-quality, durable fabrics. Look for materials that are UV-resistant, quick-drying, and easy to clean. Higher-quality slings, such as those from Twitchell, Phifer, and Sunbrella, will last longer and maintain their appearance better than cheaper alternatives. Heat-sealed or double-stitched slings are preferred because they reinforce the seams, preventing tearing or unraveling from repeated use. Keep in mind that the sling grade only determines the color, intricacy, or pattern of the weave and does not impact the fabric's durability.
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Professional Installation vs. DIY
When deciding to replace the slings on your patio furniture, you have the option to either install them yourself or hire a professional. While the process of replacing slings is generally easy and can be done quickly with practice, it does require a certain level of skill. Keep in mind that the level of expertise may vary and there may be a slight learning curve. Choosing to do it yourself can save you money, but it does require specific tools and skills. On the other hand, hiring a professional ensures a perfect fit and finish, which may be beneficial for those who are unfamiliar with the process. It is recommended that you attempt the installation yourself, but you should also gather quotes from professionals as a backup in case the DIY method is not suitable for you.
Replacing the sling on your pool furniture is a practical and cost-effective way to rejuvenate your outdoor seating. By following clear instructions, such as those provided for re-slinging a chaise lounge, you can easily undertake this DIY project and extend the life of your furniture. Not only does replacing the sling enhance the aesthetic appeal of your patio, but it also ensures comfort and functionality for years to come. Before embarking on this project, remember to thoroughly inspect the condition of your furniture frames to ensure they are sturdy and free from damage. With careful consideration and proper execution, replacing the sling on your pool furniture can be a rewarding endeavor, providing you with revitalized and inviting outdoor spaces.
Do you have furniture with vinyl straps that need to be replaced? Learn more about that replacement process here! How to Replace Vinyl Straps on Pool Deck and Patio Furniture