FAQ - Replacement Slings
Great information and Frequetly Asked questions about new patio furniture replacement slings and sling chair fabric
Why am I charged for my SLING CHAIR FABRIC ahead of time?
Our sling shop makes all slings custom based on the measurements and fabric choices our customers provide us. Since we make everything custom, we must charge at the time of order to ensure our customers follow through on their orders. If we didn't charge ahead, essentially, a customer could call and want to cancel the order and we have already cut the order, and we potentially waste the fabric. This is why we charge at time of checkout.
Are there types of patio furniture replacement slings you don't make?
Our sling shop does not make slings for chairs with spline that runs horizontal as opposed to vertical. These chairs typically have a curved top and tapered seat bottom. These chairs have proven to be complicated both in the manufacturing and installation process. We have also found that there is no standard sizing with these types of chairs and getting them properly the first time is next to impossible. No two chairs are the same! Most of these chairs were purchased at "big box" stores and can typically be replaced for less than the cost of repairs. Do not send us an old sling to use as a pattern. This does not work either. We suggest that you do not invest the time or money in repairing this type of furniture. We've learned the hard way here at our Dallas sling installation facility. Please take our advice. These chairs are VERY difficult to repair. Here are a few pictures of chairs styles for reference.
How do I measure my patio furniture for sling chair fabric?
Measuring the frame is the most important part of the replacement sling ordering process. You will find detailed measuring instructions with pictures that explain how to accurately measure the patio chair or patio chaise lounge frame. Most replacement patio chair slings are inserted into a rail that is subsequently bolted to the frame of the patio chair or chaise with bolts. Imagine a center line running down the middle of that rail. We need you to measure from center to center on the top and bottom of the chair as well as the length. To make a new replacement slings, we need three measurements from the patio chair or chaise lounge frame. If you have a one piece patio sling chair, 3 measurements will be required. If you have a sling style chaise lounge with a separate piece of material for the top and bottom of the chaise lounge, 6 measurements will be taken on the chaise lounge frame. Please measure to the closest 1/8".
DO NOT MEASURE THE OLD SLING.
This is not an accurate measurement as slings can stretch and change shape over time. Our sling shop will add the necessary fabric for seam allowances as well as the fabric inside the sling rail. We also take into consideration the replacement sling fabric you choose as certain outdoor sling fabrics stretch more than others. Please do not add anything to your measurements. You can find detailed instructions on how to measure for patio furniture replacement slings on our website in the how to section.
This is not an accurate measurement as slings can stretch and change shape over time. Our sling shop will add the necessary fabric for seam allowances as well as the fabric inside the sling rail. We also take into consideration the replacement sling fabric you choose as certain outdoor sling fabrics stretch more than others. Please do not add anything to your measurements. You can find detailed instructions on how to measure for patio furniture replacement slings on our website in the how to section.
I don't know my original model number or who made my patio furniture?
Don't worry! You don't need to know your original model number to order new sling chair fabric from our patio sling manufacturing shop. All we ask is that you take a few simple measurements on your patio sling chair frame. By measuring the actual patio chair or chaise lounge frame we can make a replacement sling that fits. When ordering by part number, you take the chance of ordering incorrectly. Our sling shop will take the frame measurements and add the necessary seam allowances as well as account for the material that is inside of the sling rail. Please see our detailed instructions on how to measure.
Don't worry! You don't need to know your original model number to order new sling chair fabric from our patio sling manufacturing shop. All we ask is that you take a few simple measurements on your patio sling chair frame. By measuring the actual patio chair or chaise lounge frame we can make a replacement sling that fits. When ordering by part number, you take the chance of ordering incorrectly. Our sling shop will take the frame measurements and add the necessary seam allowances as well as account for the material that is inside of the sling rail. Please see our detailed instructions on how to measure.
Can I send you my old sling for measurements?
Thank you but, no! Please don't send us an old sling for us to measure. It is not an accurate measurement. Old slings can stretch or bag out over time. If we measure an old sling, we take the risk of the sling being too big. We MUST measure the frame of your patio sling chair or patio sling chaise with the old sling installed. Otherwise we cannot guarantee that your new replacement sling will fit. The sling rails should be tightly attached to the frame. Please see our replacement sling measuring instructions for detailed information. If you are still unsure of how to measure, please call us and we will try to help you.
Thank you but, no! Please don't send us an old sling for us to measure. It is not an accurate measurement. Old slings can stretch or bag out over time. If we measure an old sling, we take the risk of the sling being too big. We MUST measure the frame of your patio sling chair or patio sling chaise with the old sling installed. Otherwise we cannot guarantee that your new replacement sling will fit. The sling rails should be tightly attached to the frame. Please see our replacement sling measuring instructions for detailed information. If you are still unsure of how to measure, please call us and we will try to help you.
How long does it take to ship my replacement sling order?
Single layer replacement sling orders are processed in the order in which they are received. turn times vary by time of year and a sling order can take three to four weeks in peak season. If you have ordered during our peak production time please be patent. All our slings are custom made and as such must be manufactured on the spot. Shipping time with UPS ground is 3-5 working days. We do not offer expedited shipping on our website. Sling orders are processed in the order they are received. Please be patient. During peak summer season, leads times may vary. Please plan ahead for any parties or events. During peak season we cannot accommodate rush orders.
Is replacement sling chair fabric or sling chair inserts hard to install?
Some people find patio sling installation a breeze while others find it a bit difficult. It's really depends on your comfort level with do-it-yourself projects using a few simple hand tools. On a scale of 1-10, replacement sling installation is about a 5 or 6. The average homeowner should have no problem disassembling their patio furniture and installing new slings. We provide some generic instructions on this website, which will give you a general idea of how patio chair slings are installed. Please read the instruction before placing your order to determine whether do-it-yourself sling installation is a project you want to tackle. Click here to find general information on how to install patio furniture replacement slings from our sling shop. Please be aware that there are some styles of outdoor furniture that sling replacement is very difficult or impossible for the homeowner. See the following sections of our website for more detailed information:
Do I need any special tools to install my new replacement slings for my patio sling chairs or chaises?
This truly depends on the type of furniture you have. In addition to some simple hand tools that most homeowners already have, Our sling shop offers a sling rail special spreader tool that can either be purchased or rented to assist with your sling installation. The spreader tool allows you to spread the sling rails apart long enough to get the stabilizer or spread bar back in place at the back of the chair frame. This tool is adequate for the average homeowner patio sling installation. You can see how the small spreader tool is used by viewing our sling installation instructions. The spreader tool is available for rental or purchase in the sling section of the website.
This truly depends on the type of furniture you have. In addition to some simple hand tools that most homeowners already have, Our sling shop offers a sling rail special spreader tool that can either be purchased or rented to assist with your sling installation. The spreader tool allows you to spread the sling rails apart long enough to get the stabilizer or spread bar back in place at the back of the chair frame. This tool is adequate for the average homeowner patio sling installation. You can see how the small spreader tool is used by viewing our sling installation instructions. The spreader tool is available for rental or purchase in the sling section of the website.
What kind of material are replacement slings or sling chair fabric made of?
Designed for your distinctive life-style, our sling chair fabrics meet the highest quality standards of the casual furniture industry. Our replacement sling fabric collection offers you colorful selections of stripes, solids and elegant jacquard designs to give your outdoor patio furniture a distinctive look and feel. Using only the finest in American-made raw materials, our outdoor fabric collection includes top quality sling fabrics that will be strong, long lasting and durable, season after season. Woven from all-weather, vinyl-coated polyester yarn, our replacement sling fabric collection is the perfect fabric choice for replacement slings as well as outdoor patio cushions and patio umbrellas. With over 100 beautiful colors and designs to choose from, our sling fabrics offer extreme durability, and endless choices for you to mirror your own personal backyard style!
Designed for your distinctive life-style, our sling chair fabrics meet the highest quality standards of the casual furniture industry. Our replacement sling fabric collection offers you colorful selections of stripes, solids and elegant jacquard designs to give your outdoor patio furniture a distinctive look and feel. Using only the finest in American-made raw materials, our outdoor fabric collection includes top quality sling fabrics that will be strong, long lasting and durable, season after season. Woven from all-weather, vinyl-coated polyester yarn, our replacement sling fabric collection is the perfect fabric choice for replacement slings as well as outdoor patio cushions and patio umbrellas. With over 100 beautiful colors and designs to choose from, our sling fabrics offer extreme durability, and endless choices for you to mirror your own personal backyard style!
How long sling chair fabrics or replacement sling fabric last?
Most American made outdoor patio furniture manufacturers will give you a one year warranty on the sling fabric itself. The warranty usually covers seams ripping or flaws in the fabric. Warranties usually DO NOT COVER fading of the fabric. There is no way to give a firm time line on how long your sling chair fabric will last as each customer will expose their patio sling furniture to different factors which can affect the life span of the sling material. It has been our experience that a quality American made replacement sling supplied from the original manufacturer can last on average 3-5 years. We have also seen some customers get as much as 8-10 years out of their sling material as well. The amount of exposure to the UV rays of the sun and how often the furniture is cleaned can affect the life span of the sling material.
Most American made outdoor patio furniture manufacturers will give you a one year warranty on the sling fabric itself. The warranty usually covers seams ripping or flaws in the fabric. Warranties usually DO NOT COVER fading of the fabric. There is no way to give a firm time line on how long your sling chair fabric will last as each customer will expose their patio sling furniture to different factors which can affect the life span of the sling material. It has been our experience that a quality American made replacement sling supplied from the original manufacturer can last on average 3-5 years. We have also seen some customers get as much as 8-10 years out of their sling material as well. The amount of exposure to the UV rays of the sun and how often the furniture is cleaned can affect the life span of the sling material.
Can I get FREE sling fabric swatches?
We realize that colors are very difficult to view on your computer monitor. Our sling shop takes the guess work out of which sling fabric to choose by offering our replacement sling customer FREE replacement sling fabric samples prior to ordering. When viewing our replacement sling fabric collection, our website allows customer to order free replacement sling fabric samples. Replacement slings are NOT RETURNABLE due to incorrect color choice. So we strongly encourage you to order sling fabric samples in advance. Our handy online sling fabric sample request form makes it easy for everyone. Complete the information and select your sling fabric samples. (a limit of 4 please) We will get those out to you by US Mail ASAP! Click here to view our replacement sling fabric selection and order free fabric samples. Remember, this is a FREE service we offer and we will get your samples in the mail as quickly as possible.
We realize that colors are very difficult to view on your computer monitor. Our sling shop takes the guess work out of which sling fabric to choose by offering our replacement sling customer FREE replacement sling fabric samples prior to ordering. When viewing our replacement sling fabric collection, our website allows customer to order free replacement sling fabric samples. Replacement slings are NOT RETURNABLE due to incorrect color choice. So we strongly encourage you to order sling fabric samples in advance. Our handy online sling fabric sample request form makes it easy for everyone. Complete the information and select your sling fabric samples. (a limit of 4 please) We will get those out to you by US Mail ASAP! Click here to view our replacement sling fabric selection and order free fabric samples. Remember, this is a FREE service we offer and we will get your samples in the mail as quickly as possible.
Can you match my existing sling fabric?
Unfortunately most patio sling fabrics used by the OEM's are proprietary to their line of products. In other words, we are unable to purchase original sling fabrics on a bulk basis from the manufacturer of the fabric. They are the property and design of the patio furniture manufacturer such as Brown Jordan, Winston, Woodard or Agio. In addition, patio furniture manufacturers will discontinue sling fabrics from time to time. We therefore offer our own selection of top quality outdoor grade replacement sling fabrics. We are sure you can find something that will compliment your frame and outdoor decor. In addition, you are welcome to order FREE replacement sling fabric samples prior to order to ensure you are choosing a fabric that will complement the frame color of your patio chair or chaise.
Unfortunately most patio sling fabrics used by the OEM's are proprietary to their line of products. In other words, we are unable to purchase original sling fabrics on a bulk basis from the manufacturer of the fabric. They are the property and design of the patio furniture manufacturer such as Brown Jordan, Winston, Woodard or Agio. In addition, patio furniture manufacturers will discontinue sling fabrics from time to time. We therefore offer our own selection of top quality outdoor grade replacement sling fabrics. We are sure you can find something that will compliment your frame and outdoor decor. In addition, you are welcome to order FREE replacement sling fabric samples prior to order to ensure you are choosing a fabric that will complement the frame color of your patio chair or chaise.
Can I send you a piece of my old chair sling so you can match the fabric?
Please don't send us your old sling for fabric matching. It is unlikely that we have the original sling fabric offered by the original patio furniture manufacturer. You are welcome to order free fabric swatches from our website to assist you in choosing a new fabric.
Please don't send us your old sling for fabric matching. It is unlikely that we have the original sling fabric offered by the original patio furniture manufacturer. You are welcome to order free fabric swatches from our website to assist you in choosing a new fabric.
Can I order the sling fabric by the yard so I can make my own slings?
All replacement sling fabric material is available for purchase by the yard and can be ordered directly on our website. See our outdoor fabric by the yard section of the website for more information. Each fabric is priced differently. The bolt width is 54". Please be aware that you must cut and sew your replacement slings before installing. Sewing requires a heavy duty sewing machine and needle. You will also need thread that has UV stability and suitable for outdoor use.
All replacement sling fabric material is available for purchase by the yard and can be ordered directly on our website. See our outdoor fabric by the yard section of the website for more information. Each fabric is priced differently. The bolt width is 54". Please be aware that you must cut and sew your replacement slings before installing. Sewing requires a heavy duty sewing machine and needle. You will also need thread that has UV stability and suitable for outdoor use.
Do I have to measure both slings on my loveseat glider?
It is best to take a few moments and measure both slings on a loveseat glider. It is unlikely that they are two different sizes. Ninety-nine percent of the time, loveseat glider slings will be the same size. Go ahead and measure just to be safe.
Are the replacement slings we make sewn on all sides?
The new custom made replacement slings you receive will have a 1" hem on the top and bottom and 1 1/2" hems on either side. We use a double needle seem on all 4 sides of the replacement sling material to insure a strong and long lasting seam. Replacement Slings made by Our sling shop use the best thread available. All of our slings are sewn with Solarfix PTFE threads, which have a lifetime warranty against deterioration. The thread will outlast the fabric and will not deteriorate in the sun. This thread is very expensive but we feel it's worth so we can provide you with a quality long lasting product. When we manufacture your new slings, the left and right sides of the slings have a rod pocket or opening. When you receive your new replacement slings you will also receive new sling rod or spline. These plastics rods are what hold the fabric snug and tight inside of the sling rail. You'll need to insert the spline into the sling rod pockets in either side of the sling prior to installation. We don't recommend reusing your old spline as it's usually dried out and brittle.
The new custom made replacement slings you receive will have a 1" hem on the top and bottom and 1 1/2" hems on either side. We use a double needle seem on all 4 sides of the replacement sling material to insure a strong and long lasting seam. Replacement Slings made by Our sling shop use the best thread available. All of our slings are sewn with Solarfix PTFE threads, which have a lifetime warranty against deterioration. The thread will outlast the fabric and will not deteriorate in the sun. This thread is very expensive but we feel it's worth so we can provide you with a quality long lasting product. When we manufacture your new slings, the left and right sides of the slings have a rod pocket or opening. When you receive your new replacement slings you will also receive new sling rod or spline. These plastics rods are what hold the fabric snug and tight inside of the sling rail. You'll need to insert the spline into the sling rod pockets in either side of the sling prior to installation. We don't recommend reusing your old spline as it's usually dried out and brittle.
Is it worth replacing the slings on my patio furniture?
If you purchased better quality patio furniture from a specialty, patio furniture store, then the answer is a definite YES! Replacement slings from our sling store are cheaper than buying new furniture and an inexpensive way to protect your furniture investment. Our slings are usually less expensive than re-ordering from the furniture manufacturer. American manufacturers such as Brown Jordan, Woodard, Winston, Tropitone, Carter Grandle, Telescope, Summer Classicss are just a few of the better quality outdoor furniture manufacturers. The average price of a brand new sling style chair can range from $200 - $400 per chair. A replacement sling for $65 is well worth the investment. Usually the metal frame is in good condition and will last for many years if properly maintained. The replacement sling material will usually last 3-5 years on average and can easily and economically be replaced. Better quality patio furniture frames can also be refinished and extend the usability of your furniture investment.
If you purchased better quality patio furniture from a specialty, patio furniture store, then the answer is a definite YES! Replacement slings from our sling store are cheaper than buying new furniture and an inexpensive way to protect your furniture investment. Our slings are usually less expensive than re-ordering from the furniture manufacturer. American manufacturers such as Brown Jordan, Woodard, Winston, Tropitone, Carter Grandle, Telescope, Summer Classicss are just a few of the better quality outdoor furniture manufacturers. The average price of a brand new sling style chair can range from $200 - $400 per chair. A replacement sling for $65 is well worth the investment. Usually the metal frame is in good condition and will last for many years if properly maintained. The replacement sling material will usually last 3-5 years on average and can easily and economically be replaced. Better quality patio furniture frames can also be refinished and extend the usability of your furniture investment.
If you purchased your furniture from a big box store such as Home Depot, Lowe's, Sam's, Costco, Wal-Mart or K-Mart or similar, the answer is NO and maybe YES. Furniture purchased from discount stores is imported from China. It looks great on the surface and the price is usually very attractive to the consumer. Many times, the cost of replacement slings from our sling store will be almost as much as the original price of the set.
Import furniture from big box stores will typically last a season or two before the slings deteriorate or some of the plastic parts start to break. The frames are typically made of powder-coated aluminum and remain in fairly good condition. The unfortunate thing is that there are no replacement parts such as slings, vinyl strap, cushions or parts available in the United States to fix import furniture. The furniture is brought to the states in ocean going containers and distributed across the United States. The importer/manufacturer did not intend for this furniture to be repaired. It was meant to be thrown away at the end of it's life. Most of it ends up on the curb on trash day. Perfectly good aluminum that could be recycled, ends up in your local landfill. The importer and big box store hope you will buy yet another set to replace it.
So instead of throwing away a perfectly good aluminum chair frame, you have the option of ordering replacement slings from our sling store. It may cost you close to what you paid for the set originally. Repairing and refurbishing what you have and not contributing to the local landfill is an environmentally friendly alternative.
Do I receive new plastic slings rods with my sling order?
All replacement slings from our sling store will include new sling rods or spline. There is no additional charge for sling spline. You do not have to order sling spline separately when ordering replacement slings from our sling store. The spline or rod is included in the price of the replacement sling. We highly recommend using new spline as the old spline or plastic rod is not as flexible and may have become dry and brittle with exposure to the elements. The new rods will be 7/32" in diameter and a bit longer than the length of your patio sling. The new rods will be soft and flexible for easy installation. Spline will not be installed into your sling. You will find it rolled up inside the package. You will need to install them along the hem of your new replacement sling when you begin the installation process. Here is a little hint: If you are having trouble threading the sling rod through the edges of the sling, sharpen one end in an old-fashioned crank pencil sharpener. The pointy end makes it easier to thread.
My plastic rods I received are not the same size as my original ones.
Each new replacement sling is sent with medium size sling rod which is 7/32" in diameter. This is the most common diameter used by patio furniture manufacturers. However, some brands of outdoor sling furniture may have used a larger or smaller diameter rod. If you need a different size rod, please contact us at 1-866-638-6416. We have 2 additional spline diameters available and would be glad to send whatever you need to complete the installation.
Each new replacement sling is sent with medium size sling rod which is 7/32" in diameter. This is the most common diameter used by patio furniture manufacturers. However, some brands of outdoor sling furniture may have used a larger or smaller diameter rod. If you need a different size rod, please contact us at 1-866-638-6416. We have 2 additional spline diameters available and would be glad to send whatever you need to complete the installation.
What if my patio chair or chaise slings don't fit when I get them?
We want you to be happy and successful with your replacement sling installation. Please call us if the slings don't fit properly. If we made a mistake, we will gladly make new slings without question. If your measurements were wrong we would gladly work with you to adjust the slings if possible. Our goal is to make sure you are happy with our products and service. We won't leave you hanging! We'll find a mutually agreeable solution if there is a problem with your slings.
We want you to be happy and successful with your replacement sling installation. Please call us if the slings don't fit properly. If we made a mistake, we will gladly make new slings without question. If your measurements were wrong we would gladly work with you to adjust the slings if possible. Our goal is to make sure you are happy with our products and service. We won't leave you hanging! We'll find a mutually agreeable solution if there is a problem with your slings.
I just received my sling and the length is not correct.
If your slings are too short or too long in length, please contact our customer service department at 1-866-638-6416. We can usually adjust the length as needed. Please don't send your slings back without calling us first. We need to figure out what is going on first and if you need to return your slings.
If your slings are too short or too long in length, please contact our customer service department at 1-866-638-6416. We can usually adjust the length as needed. Please don't send your slings back without calling us first. We need to figure out what is going on first and if you need to return your slings.
My chair has a welded spreader bar in the back. How Can I Fit a New Sling?
If you chair has a spreader bar in the back that is welded to the frame and cannot be removed, please call us before you place your sling order. This will be a very difficult installation for the average homeowner and we do not recommend ordering replacement slings from us unless you have a professional experienced sling installer to assist you.
While the majority of replacement slings can be installed by the customer, there are a few that we strongly recommend you NOT try to install. Some chairs and chaise lounges have welded stabilizer bars at the back of the frame that give the chair back strength. The stabilizer bar cannot be removed making the installation and correct fit of the sling very difficult. We highly recommend that you not attempt this type of installation at home. Here in our shops in Dallas, we have the proper tooling and the ability to adjust the sling size on the fly, allowing us to install these slings for our local Dallas Fort Worth customers.
If you chair has a spreader bar in the back that is welded to the frame and cannot be removed, please call us before you place your sling order. This will be a very difficult installation for the average homeowner and we do not recommend ordering replacement slings from us unless you have a professional experienced sling installer to assist you.
While the majority of replacement slings can be installed by the customer, there are a few that we strongly recommend you NOT try to install. Some chairs and chaise lounges have welded stabilizer bars at the back of the frame that give the chair back strength. The stabilizer bar cannot be removed making the installation and correct fit of the sling very difficult. We highly recommend that you not attempt this type of installation at home. Here in our shops in Dallas, we have the proper tooling and the ability to adjust the sling size on the fly, allowing us to install these slings for our local Dallas Fort Worth customers.
The rails that hold the edge of the sling fabric are on the top and the bottom and not on the right and left sides of the chair. And my chair has a slight curve at the top.
Unfortunately the our sling shop sling production and online ordering process does not allow for sling furniture that has horizontal rails. The rails of your chair or chaise lounge must be on the left and the right side when facing the front of the chair. This style of furniture sometimes proves very difficult to install for the average homeowner. See the images below. If your furniture looks like this DO NOT TRY TO ORDER SLINGS from this website. They will not fit.
Unfortunately the our sling shop sling production and online ordering process does not allow for sling furniture that has horizontal rails. The rails of your chair or chaise lounge must be on the left and the right side when facing the front of the chair. This style of furniture sometimes proves very difficult to install for the average homeowner. See the images below. If your furniture looks like this DO NOT TRY TO ORDER SLINGS from this website. They will not fit.
The sling fabric goes around to the back or side of the chair. The sling rail opening is not at the front of the chair.
On some higher end patio furniture like Brown Jordan, you will find the sling rail opening is on the side of the metal sling rail or at the back of the chair. Please do not order replacement slings form us if you have this style of furniture. They are very difficult to install and our online measuring system will not be accurate. Please contact your local Brown Jordan dealer to order new replacement slings and ask for installation assistance.
On some higher end patio furniture like Brown Jordan, you will find the sling rail opening is on the side of the metal sling rail or at the back of the chair. Please do not order replacement slings form us if you have this style of furniture. They are very difficult to install and our online measuring system will not be accurate. Please contact your local Brown Jordan dealer to order new replacement slings and ask for installation assistance.
My sling keeps coming out of the rail around the seat area?
We get lots of calls from frustrated customers asking why their sling is coming out of the sling rail near the curve of the seat at the bottom of the chair. This is a common occurrence with sling furniture. During the winter season, rain and snow can collect on the chair frame and puddle or collect at the bottom of the seat. The water migrates down into the sling rail with nowhere to go. It never drains out of the rail. When temperature drops below 32 degrees and begins to freeze, the water inside the rail turns to ice and expands the rail and aluminum outward, which widens the gap and allows the sling to work its way out of the frame. Repeated freezing will cause stress to the aluminum sling rail causing it to stay in the open position. Unfortunately it's not possible to "squeeze" the aluminum rail back together. It usually doesn't happen to the whole length of the rail, just the bottom of the seat area where water collects. Sometimes the rail will widen enough that you can put your finger down inside. NOT GOOD! Please make sure you inspect your furniture for freeze damage before ordering new replacement slings. When you add the weight of the body sitting on the chair, this also adds stress to the metal. You see this happen in the seat part of a chair or on the bottom half of a chaise lounge because this is where the water tends to puddle and stay with nowhere to go. Typically, the opening in a sling rail is about 1/4" wide. The picture set below compares a normal width sling rail opening to one that has had freeze damage and expanded to almost ½" wide. Please make sure you inspect your furniture for freeze damage before ordering new replacement slings. It might be time to buy new furniture rather than investing in replacement slings.
We get lots of calls from frustrated customers asking why their sling is coming out of the sling rail near the curve of the seat at the bottom of the chair. This is a common occurrence with sling furniture. During the winter season, rain and snow can collect on the chair frame and puddle or collect at the bottom of the seat. The water migrates down into the sling rail with nowhere to go. It never drains out of the rail. When temperature drops below 32 degrees and begins to freeze, the water inside the rail turns to ice and expands the rail and aluminum outward, which widens the gap and allows the sling to work its way out of the frame. Repeated freezing will cause stress to the aluminum sling rail causing it to stay in the open position. Unfortunately it's not possible to "squeeze" the aluminum rail back together. It usually doesn't happen to the whole length of the rail, just the bottom of the seat area where water collects. Sometimes the rail will widen enough that you can put your finger down inside. NOT GOOD! Please make sure you inspect your furniture for freeze damage before ordering new replacement slings. When you add the weight of the body sitting on the chair, this also adds stress to the metal. You see this happen in the seat part of a chair or on the bottom half of a chaise lounge because this is where the water tends to puddle and stay with nowhere to go. Typically, the opening in a sling rail is about 1/4" wide. The picture set below compares a normal width sling rail opening to one that has had freeze damage and expanded to almost ½" wide. Please make sure you inspect your furniture for freeze damage before ordering new replacement slings. It might be time to buy new furniture rather than investing in replacement slings.
I don't see my fabric listed any more on the sling fabric selection.
Sling fabrics are periodically discontinued by the fabric manufacturer. We have no control over which fabrics are no longer available. Mid-season, sling fabric manufacturers will let us know which patterns are discontinued as well as new patterns that are added. Sling Fabric manufacturers have a stock collection that is available to the industry. It would be impossible for us to carry the entire stock collection. At the end of the year we look at available stock fabrics and decide which ones we will offer for our online customers. If you are thinking about orders slings for your patio furniture, we highly recommend ordering everything you need at one time as you never know when a fabric will be discontinued.
I only need the bottom of my chaise lounge sling. Can you match my fabric?
Most of the time we can NOT match the fabric on your chaise lounge. Manufacturers of patio furniture usually have their own exclusive collection of fabrics that they offer. These fabrics are not available to us. We are working from the stock collection offered by the fabric manufacturers. You might find a sling fabric that is close to the color but probably not a dead match. The other problem is fading. Sling fabrics don't last forever and can fade over time due to sun exposure. If you look at the underside of the chair or chaise, you will see what the original sling fabric color looks like. We strongly suggest that you replace both the back and the bottom of your chaise at the same time. However if you don't mind having a mismatched sling, then you are more than welcome to order just the bottom or the back. You can order either from the replacement sling section of our website.
Most of the time we can NOT match the fabric on your chaise lounge. Manufacturers of patio furniture usually have their own exclusive collection of fabrics that they offer. These fabrics are not available to us. We are working from the stock collection offered by the fabric manufacturers. You might find a sling fabric that is close to the color but probably not a dead match. The other problem is fading. Sling fabrics don't last forever and can fade over time due to sun exposure. If you look at the underside of the chair or chaise, you will see what the original sling fabric color looks like. We strongly suggest that you replace both the back and the bottom of your chaise at the same time. However if you don't mind having a mismatched sling, then you are more than welcome to order just the bottom or the back. You can order either from the replacement sling section of our website.
Can I make my own replacement slings?
Of course you can. All of our sling fabrics are sold by the yard on this website. You are welcome to give it a try. You will need to sew your replacement slings on all 4 sides using an outdoor thread and heavy duty sewing machine.
Of course you can. All of our sling fabrics are sold by the yard on this website. You are welcome to give it a try. You will need to sew your replacement slings on all 4 sides using an outdoor thread and heavy duty sewing machine.
Can you install the new patio slings for me?
If you live in the Dallas Fort Worth area, we can certainly provide a turnkey service of new slings and installation. We also offer pick-up and delivery (for a fee) to our metroplex customers. See the North Texas Services section of this website for more pricing and information. If you live elsewhere across the country and need someone to install your new replacement slings from us, then try calling your local patio furniture store. They may know of someone in your area that can assist you. Our DIY instructions are easy to follow. Sling installation is something that a local handyman may be able to help you with.
What size spline or sling rod should I use?
Most of the spline used for standard sling chairs is our medium sized spline which is 7/32" in diameter. It's very rare that we see ¼" spline used for patio furniture. The smaller spline is also rarely used and mostly for one particular manufacturer of furniture. All of our replacement slings are sent using the medium sized spline. If you find you need something different, please contact us. We can help you determine what you need.
How many slings have you made? Do you guys really know what you're doing?
We have been making replacement slings for its Dallas Fort Worth customers and online customers nationwide for the last 10 years. We have been making and installing replacement slings for our local Dallas Fort Worth customers since 2004. We were the first online retailer to offer replacement slings on the internet. In addition we have over 400 patio furniture stores that purchase replacement slings at a wholesale level. In 2013, we cut and sewed over 20,000 replacement slings for our wholesale and retail customers. We know how to make a great quality sling. We process so many replacement slings each season that we installed bar code tracking of orders to keep track of the vast amount of orders we cut and sew each day. We use A LOT of sling fabric. Each season we use close to 20,000 yards of replacement sling fabric from various vendors. So, YES, we know how to make and install replacement slings!
We have been making replacement slings for its Dallas Fort Worth customers and online customers nationwide for the last 10 years. We have been making and installing replacement slings for our local Dallas Fort Worth customers since 2004. We were the first online retailer to offer replacement slings on the internet. In addition we have over 400 patio furniture stores that purchase replacement slings at a wholesale level. In 2013, we cut and sewed over 20,000 replacement slings for our wholesale and retail customers. We know how to make a great quality sling. We process so many replacement slings each season that we installed bar code tracking of orders to keep track of the vast amount of orders we cut and sew each day. We use A LOT of sling fabric. Each season we use close to 20,000 yards of replacement sling fabric from various vendors. So, YES, we know how to make and install replacement slings!
Where can I find this spreader tool that you mention in the instructions?
Make sling installation easier with our specially designed sling installation tool. This special tool is our exclusive design. The spreader tool allows you to spread the rails at the back of the chair so the tension or stabilizer bar can be reinstalled. The sling spreader tool also helps you stretch the fabric so you can tighten the chair rails back in place. Works for both chairs and chaise lounge sling installation. Rental includes the spreader tool and two clamps. Pay $50 for the tool when you place your sling order. Return the tool within 30 days of purchase to receive a $25 credit. Customer is responsible for return shipping to us.
How should I clean my slings after they are installed?
Keeping your sling fabric clean is the key to longevity! Pollution, dirt, body oils, suntan lotions, general debris, fertilizers from your yard and "special presents" left behind by local critters can make your new replacement slings and undesirable place to sit. Take some time each month to clean your new slings and make them fresh and clean for you and your guests. Sling fabric is the easiest fabric to clean. Nothing special required. Just a soft scrub brush and some basic household cleaner like Simple Green, Fantastic or similar product. We really don't recommend using a bleach based product or dipping your furniture in the pool to rinse it off. Chlorine is a very harsh chemical and can dry out your sling fabric in combination with the UV rays of the sun and prematurely age the fabric. We really like the simple green product because it's a degreaser and its biodegradable. Just put your chair or chaise out in the middle of the yard. Spray it down with a garden hose, spray on a bit of cleaner and use the soft scrub brush to remove the dirt and debris. Rinse well and allow it to dry. Because the sling fabric is an open mesh material, the fabric should dry very quickly. Repeat every couple of weeks to keep your patio sling chairs clean and inviting.
Keeping your sling fabric clean is the key to longevity! Pollution, dirt, body oils, suntan lotions, general debris, fertilizers from your yard and "special presents" left behind by local critters can make your new replacement slings and undesirable place to sit. Take some time each month to clean your new slings and make them fresh and clean for you and your guests. Sling fabric is the easiest fabric to clean. Nothing special required. Just a soft scrub brush and some basic household cleaner like Simple Green, Fantastic or similar product. We really don't recommend using a bleach based product or dipping your furniture in the pool to rinse it off. Chlorine is a very harsh chemical and can dry out your sling fabric in combination with the UV rays of the sun and prematurely age the fabric. We really like the simple green product because it's a degreaser and its biodegradable. Just put your chair or chaise out in the middle of the yard. Spray it down with a garden hose, spray on a bit of cleaner and use the soft scrub brush to remove the dirt and debris. Rinse well and allow it to dry. Because the sling fabric is an open mesh material, the fabric should dry very quickly. Repeat every couple of weeks to keep your patio sling chairs clean and inviting.
Is one sling fabric more durable or a better quality than another?
That is a great question. Probably one of the top questions we are asked each day. The answer is very simply NO. All of our sling fabrics are made by one of 4 manufacturers. The same sling fabric mill that all the major patio furniture manufactures in the USA use for their sling fabric. We are all buying from the same place and offering the same quality replacement sling fabric. Our patio sling replacement fabrics are made in the USA and are not substandard or quality. Our fabric is NOT the same as the fabric you find on sling furniture that came from China. Most sling fabrics use the same basic content, a PCV polyester thread, which in simple terms is plastic. The weaving method may change, and some fabrics have an added Olefin fiber to create the texture or Jacquard design, but the basic content of the fabric remains the same. We tell our customers that you will not get any significant life span from one fabric to another. How long your sling fabric lasts depends on how you take care of it and under what conditions the furniture is exposed. All sling fabrics are meant to be exposed to the outdoor elements and the UV rays of the sun. But nothing lasts forever. If you live in the south (like our Dallas customers), the sun is very strong and destructive. Most of our Dallas customers get 3-5 years out of a sling fabric in the Texas sun. Furniture manufacturers will not give you more than a 1 year warranty on your replacement sling fabric when you buy new. They can't. So rest assured that no matter which fabric you choose, it is the best quality available.
That is a great question. Probably one of the top questions we are asked each day. The answer is very simply NO. All of our sling fabrics are made by one of 4 manufacturers. The same sling fabric mill that all the major patio furniture manufactures in the USA use for their sling fabric. We are all buying from the same place and offering the same quality replacement sling fabric. Our patio sling replacement fabrics are made in the USA and are not substandard or quality. Our fabric is NOT the same as the fabric you find on sling furniture that came from China. Most sling fabrics use the same basic content, a PCV polyester thread, which in simple terms is plastic. The weaving method may change, and some fabrics have an added Olefin fiber to create the texture or Jacquard design, but the basic content of the fabric remains the same. We tell our customers that you will not get any significant life span from one fabric to another. How long your sling fabric lasts depends on how you take care of it and under what conditions the furniture is exposed. All sling fabrics are meant to be exposed to the outdoor elements and the UV rays of the sun. But nothing lasts forever. If you live in the south (like our Dallas customers), the sun is very strong and destructive. Most of our Dallas customers get 3-5 years out of a sling fabric in the Texas sun. Furniture manufacturers will not give you more than a 1 year warranty on your replacement sling fabric when you buy new. They can't. So rest assured that no matter which fabric you choose, it is the best quality available.
Is one sling fabric harder to install than another?
The straight forward answer to this is YES! The thicker the fabric, the more difficult it will be to pull through the sling rails and stretch into place. For example, the fabrics in the Cane Wicker fabric are very thick and chunky. Those fabrics are a little more challenging to install because of their thickness. They are also much harder to stretch horizontally. Not impossible, but more challenging. By comparison, other thinner fabrics are more forgiving and can easily stretch across the frame during installation. Order free samples before you place your order for a better idea. YOU MUST STRETCH THE FABRIC to get your new sling installed.
The straight forward answer to this is YES! The thicker the fabric, the more difficult it will be to pull through the sling rails and stretch into place. For example, the fabrics in the Cane Wicker fabric are very thick and chunky. Those fabrics are a little more challenging to install because of their thickness. They are also much harder to stretch horizontally. Not impossible, but more challenging. By comparison, other thinner fabrics are more forgiving and can easily stretch across the frame during installation. Order free samples before you place your order for a better idea. YOU MUST STRETCH THE FABRIC to get your new sling installed.
Will any of the sling fabrics fade quicker than another?
A general rule of thumb is that darker fabrics will fade quicker than lighter. On the flip side, lighter fabrics will show the dirt quicker. It's a toss of the coin! Just keep your slings clean and they will last longer. And No, there is nothing you can spray onto the fabric to make it last longer.
Can I use single layer slings for my Homecrest Patio Furniture?
No it will not work. DO NOT ORDER single layer replacement slings if you have Homecrest furniture. Homecrest uses a double layer sling that it kind of like a pillow case. The frame of the chair goes to the inside of the double layer sling. Homecrest replacement slings are ordered by part number NOT by dimension. Please call us if you have any questions about what to order.
No it will not work. DO NOT ORDER single layer replacement slings if you have Homecrest furniture. Homecrest uses a double layer sling that it kind of like a pillow case. The frame of the chair goes to the inside of the double layer sling. Homecrest replacement slings are ordered by part number NOT by dimension. Please call us if you have any questions about what to order.
Who makes the replacement sling fabric that you use?
There are 4 major manufacturers of patio sling fabric in the USA. Phifer, Twitchell, Sunbrella and Batyline which is made in France. These are the only fabric manufacturers.
There are 4 major manufacturers of patio sling fabric in the USA. Phifer, Twitchell, Sunbrella and Batyline which is made in France. These are the only fabric manufacturers.
More Questions?
If you have any additional questions not covered in the above information, please send an e-mail to [email protected] We are glad to help.
If you have any additional questions not covered in the above information, please send an e-mail to [email protected] We are glad to help.