Providing your children or grandchildren with a backyard playground can be a great way to spend enjoyable summer days playing outside.
Playground equipment can include swing sets, slide sets, play towers and sandboxes, just to name a few.
Where?
Before you begin shopping, you’ll want to first determine the area you’ll want to place your swing set. What are the overall dimensions of the area, and is it level enough to accommodate playground equipment?
What material is best?
Next, you’ll want to decide on your playground equipment’s material. The three main materials which are typically used for playground equipment include plastic, wood and metal.
Plastic is ideal for smaller play sets or those designed for smaller children. They are generally durable, easy to clean and maintenance free. Metal is typically an inexpensive solution, but you should make sure it is galvanized or painted to avoid rust. Wood is a popular choice, as it is both attractive and sturdy. Wood play sets are generally constructed of cedar, redwood or pressure-treated wood.
How much?
Next, decide how much money you want to spend. Playground equipment can range in price from $100 to $10,000, depending on how elaborate you want it to be.
Include the kids
Now comes the fun part! Take your kids with you when shopping for your play set and let them express their desires. Slides, swings, rock walls, rope swings and play towers are just a few of the options when choosing a play set.
Ask questions about the play set’s safety features and which ages are appropriate for the different types of playground equipment.
Installation options
There are a few different options available when purchasing playground equipment. First, you can purchase the equipment and assemble it yourself. If you are handy and have the time to assemble your play set, then this is probably a good bet, as it is the most cost efficient.
You can also have the equipment delivered and assembled on site by the manufacturer or retailer. This is often a good choice if you don’t want to tackle the job of assembly, and you have the money in your budget to pay for assembly.
Wooden play sets often come in kits for assembly. You can find these kits online and have them delivered to your home. Some kits are sold as “everything but the lumber” kit, which means that you are provided with accessories, plans and instructions, but it is up to you to purchase, cut and drill your lumber.
The second option is the “everything included” kit, which means that the lumber is also included, and it is pre-cut and pre-drilled.
If you are really handy, you may want to explore the option of designing and building your own play set. You can find plans, materials, lists and building instructions for sale online.
Finally, if a one-of-a-kind play set is appealing to you, but the thought of constructing one isn’t, you can hire a general contractor or carpenter to bring your ideas to life.
Now enjoy the outdoors and play!
