Easy Guide to Shopping for Outdoor Playground Sets

Like any parent, your child is number one.  When shopping for a playground equipment set you want to get the very best for your kid.  You don’t want to have to worry about your child standing on the second level of their new play set and the whole thing falling apart.  Like a family car, you want something safe, sturdy, affordable.  The fun part is a given.  Here are a few tips on shopping for play systems for your backyard.

If you are shopping at a playground retailer, before you make a purchase get their information and do a bit of research online to see if they have any bad reviews regarding the quality of their equipment. 

Ask about what materials are used for the play system you are interested in.  For example, how hot does the slide material get?  Are any of the components powder coated metal?  How well do the materials stand up to weather?  If it is wood, what kind of wood, and how well is it sanded?  Do the materials have rounded edges?  What are the benefits of the materials used and how well do they stand up to direct sunlight or moist climate?  Most often times, cedar is used for backyard play systems.  You will want to know how to maintain the wood over time.

Measure the area in the backyard where you want to place the system and try to add at least 10’ of open space to all sides of the play system perimeter.  This open space is considered “safe zoning”, a rule of thumb in both commercial and residential playground industries implemented to keep the children in the play area safe and the people outside of the play area safe as well.  Accidents happen easily and it is better to be safe than sorry.

Ask how long it will take to install the play set.  Is it something that you and your partner will need help with?  If you think a piece of Ikea furniture is complicated, imagine a 20’x20’ playground.  The materials are definitely not light and you want to make sure it is installed properly.  If you are not good at this sort of thing, research installers before you buy.  Or look for a more modular, easy to put together system.  Sometimes these are more expensive, but will benefit you greatly.  These are also more easily transported if you move.

Consider the type of playground you are buying.  Is it a play set your child will grow out of within a year or two?  Is it too stylized?  Stick to classic activities that your child will appreciate for awhile such as slides, swings, and more socializing/engaging activities.  There are many innovations in playgrounds these days but you want to make sure it is the right fit for your kids.

Make sure that the product you are buying offers a warranty that is clear and guarantees customer satisfaction.  Parts will more than likely need replacing over time and you want to insure you have all of your bases covered if something is damaged.