Rocking chairs for a small porch: how much room you need

Two rocking chairs and a small table are a classic porch setup. Rockers need more room than regular chairs, because they move. Here is how to size them for a small porch or patio.

Rockers need room behind them

A rocking chair's runners extend past the seat, and the chair travels a few inches back as it rocks. Each rocker in our wood rocking chair set is about 34 in deep, 27 in wide and 43 in tall. Leave about 12 in behind each chair so it does not hit the wall or railing.

The space a pair needs

Two rockers side by side with a small table between them need a use zone of about 6.5 × 5 ft. That includes the table, the rocking room behind and space to get in and out.

Small porch layouts that work

• Side by side facing out: the classic layout, about 6.5 ft wide. Best on a porch at least 5 ft deep.
• Angled toward each other: uses a little less width and makes conversation easier. Works in a corner.
• One rocker plus the table: if your porch is under 5 ft wide, one rocker and the side table still give you a spot for coffee.

Fold the table when you need the space

The side table in this set folds flat, so you can clear the walkway when you need it and store it for winter.

Wood care

Wood rockers last longer if they are covered or brought in during long wet spells. Our materials guide covers how often to re-seal outdoor wood.

Not sure two rockers will fit? Send us your porch measurements.