I have quite a large box alder tree in the front yard that I want to hang a couple swings from a branch of it. I’ve read a little bit about it not being a strong type of wood. Will it hold let’s say a 300# person swinging?
Box Alder tree
- Thread starter Jesscha
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cuinrearview
Red saw lover
It might, but I wouldn't do it in my yard.
Because of the risk it’s not strong enough?
cuinrearview
Red saw lover
Yes. Those trees, in my experience, are notoriously brittle. What is the diameter of the branch where you want to hang something?
I would have to get up on a ladder to measure but it’s about 15 inches in diameter if I were to estimate . It’s the branch on the right side in my photo
cuinrearview
Red saw lover
It's tough to get perspective from a photo.
That limb in the photo should support your three-hundred-lb. load. As long as you're not attaching out near the end of the limb.
Hang your swing, then watch to see how your limb reacts when you put your load on it. If it just deflects a little--you're good to go. If the limb drops a great deal, then you have your answer.
Hang your swing, then watch to see how your limb reacts when you put your load on it. If it just deflects a little--you're good to go. If the limb drops a great deal, then you have your answer.
Maybe load the swing with something inanimate first! Tough to out "swing" a falling limb. Just a idea.
Thanks for your advice, we have the swing supplies so we will attempt to hang it and see how it goes!
Thank you for your input, we will be careful to test it well before swinging on it with our children!
Ya, like you're Mother In law....lol
All kidding aside, we have many large box alders around and most are strong enough for a swing.
When alive and growing its probably plenty adequate.
When alive and growing its probably plenty adequate.
Yes they are very brittle. I wouldn't do it no mater how big the limb is. I had several very large box elders and all of them had big limbs that would just break off for no reason. An A frame would be safer and it can be moved around.
