Tree Frogs - Wood Swing Sets
Make the Most of Your Wood Swing Set Investment
When you’re shopping for a wood swing set for your back yard, you have visions of many happy hours filled with active play and laughter. But if you want to make the most of this investment in your child’s recreation, also invest a little time in planning ahead and making some smart choices before you make your purchase.
#1. Choose age appropriate options.
Accidents occur when young children are tackling swings, slides, or climbing that is beyond their current ability. Be sure to choose age-appropriate design and accessories. Look for wood swing sets that offer a variety of options for upgrading, such as moving from a toddler to a rope or tire swing, or adding a climbing wall or monkey bars when your youngster is big and strong enough to safely handle these activities.
#2. Determine your play space.
Carefully measure the area in your yard that will be dedicated to your children’s play set—bearing in mind that you may want to add on to the initial set, which could require more surface area. Make sure the space is clearly visible from and close to your home for quick access and supervision. Avoid placing the swing set near trees; branches can create a hazard. The area must be level to provide maximum stability for the swing set. If you don’t have a level area, custom designs are available to accommodate different terrain. And be sure you can enclose the area.
Remember that you need to calculate for more than the wood swing set’s footprint. Allow at least six feet beyond the end of the slide. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) guidelines state, “Nothing shall be within four feet of either side or six feet in front of a slide.”Wherever children will be swinging, estimate an area that is twice the height of the crossbeam. Swings should also be placed a minimum of 22 inches apart, according to the CPSC, so keep this figure in mind when estimating how much area you need for the preferred number of swings.
#3. Prepare for safe landings.
About 70 percent of swing set and playground injuries are the result of a fall. You can minimize the risk by incorporating a surface that will cushion a youngster’s fall. You’ve probably seen rubber matting on some commercial play areas. It’s a great material but must be installed over concrete or asphalt so unless you are willing to pave the area under your play set, consider something like sand, wood chips, pea gravel, or shredded rubber. Rubber is a great option because it is soft, resists fungus growth, does not attract insects, and doesn’t need to be replenished each season like sand and mulch, Keep the surface clean of rocks, branches, and other items that could cause a greater injury if a child falls on them. You can also add more protection by placing rubber mats in high-traffic spots and landing areas, like the base of the slide, and under the ladders and monkey bars.
#4. Choose the right wood.
Wood is definitely the best choice for a child’s play set. Wood swing sets are more durable than plastic and safer than metal sets, which can rust and crack. When comparing wood swing sets, though, remember that not all woods are equal. Cedar, cypress, and redwood provide the sturdiest construction, do not splinter, and naturally resist insects and decay. Treated woods are unsafe for children because the chemicals used may be toxic. Also, thicker beams will provide more stability and durability, so 4x4 & 4x6 are a good choice.
#5. Check the warranty.
As with any major purchase, you want the peace of mind that comes with a solid warranty. Read the fine print. The structural integrity of the wood swing set should be well covered; 10 years reflects a good quality guarantee. Be clear about your protection on plastic components and accessories.
With smart shopping, a wood swing set should last through a child’s development from toddler to adolescent. Spark their imaginative play and outdoor fun with accessories while keeping them safe by planning ahead and doing your homework.
