We bought this swing earlier this year, the main factor influencing us was price - we couldn't afford the lovely wooden one we had hoped to get. It serves its purpose very well. It is sturdy and seems to have weathered some fairly awful weather without looking too tattered. I suppose I'll have a better idea of that come Spring. It was put up within about 30-45 mins by a friend who did the entire job on his own - so obviously not too difficult if you know what you're doing. It doesn't feel at all flimsy when you're seated on it. I'd buy it again if I had to.