Benefits of Swings and Outdoor Playsets
In addition to providing enjoyment, a backyard play structure offers:
- Physical Benefits: Running, climbing and jumping improve fitness, strength, endurance, balance and coordination.
- Social Benefits: Interacting with other children provides experience with decision-making and conflict resolution.
- Learning and Creativity Benefits: Outdoor play helps children develop their imagination.
Types of Swing Sets and Playsets
There are several factors to consider when choosing an outdoor playset or swing set, including material, size, activities and budget.
Outdoor Play Structure Materials
- Wood: Wood playsets and swing sets have a warm look that blends with the landscape. They’re insect resistant and rot resistant but require regular maintenance.
- Metal: Metal playsets and swing sets require less maintenance. Typically, you just need to apply a bit of touch-up paint to scratches and keep an eye out for rust.
- Plastic: Plastic playsets and swing sets are smaller, and the smooth, softer material suits younger children. Often a rinse or wash is the only maintenance necessary.
Outdoor Play Structure Sizes
Your space needs to fit a playset or swing set large enough for the number of children using the structure. Check the product information for specific requirements, but in addition to space for the playset itself:
- You need an unobstructed area at least 6 feet around the structure and accessories.
- The area above the structure must be clear of obstacles like branches and wires.
- There should be space in front of and behind swings that extends at least twice the height of the support beam.
- For metal playsets and swings, you need a location with sufficient space out of direct sunlight so the surfaces don’t get too hot.
Outdoor Play Structure Activities
Tailor home playground equipment to your child’s activities and interests. Swing sets, of course, focus on swinging but might also have a slide or seesaw. Most playsets include a swing set and a tower. From there, you can find sets with slides, rings, sandboxes, picnic tables and climbing areas.
Make sure the activities and accessories are right for your child’s age. In general, consider not allowing children under the age of five to play on anything above 5 feet high. If they can’t climb a wall or swing on their own, then they’re not ready for those accessories. Change activities as your child grows.
Consider add-on components, such as:
Make sure the weight limits of swings, slides, rings, etc. are suitable for the children using them.
Playset and Swing Set Budget
Balance material, size and activities to find a play structure that fits your budget. Simple swing sets typically don’t require professional assembly, and you can save on playset costs if you assemble the structure yourself, if you have the time and can handle moving and installing the heavier components. However, plan for the purchase of tools and materials you need for any assembly and consider the value of the time that DIY installation requires. Reserve some of your budget for future activity upgrades and maintenance.
You can purchase select playsets with installation included. See what Lowe’s Playset Installation Services have to offer.
Types of Swings
Swing sets and most playsets include several swings. Different types of swings are suitable for different ages and uses:
- A toddler swing is best for very young children since it offers a more enclosed seat and a lap belt or harness.
- A belt swing adapts to fit closely and comfortably around young and older children of different sizes.
- A flat swing has a fixed size and solid seat that can be a good option for older children if a belt swing feels too confined.
- A saucer swing moves in all directions. Some can fit two or three children at once, depending on weight ratings.
If you’re purchasing an add-on swing for a swing set or playset, make sure it’s compatible with your play structure.
Get Ready to Bring Outdoor Fun Home
Once you choose the perfect playset or swing set, plan for installation and then get ready for play time:
- Decide if you’ll build the play structure as a DIY project or hire a pro for installation.
- Clear the installation area for the play structure.
- Decide on a fill material, like rubber mulch, wood mulch or sand, to place under the play structure.
- Establish rules for safe play and sharing.
- Plan for maintenance to keep the kids playing safely for years to come.
Create Memories With a Playset or Swing Set
Give your child a place to play, learn social skills and expand creativity while forming memories that last a lifetime. Here are the key points to remember when shopping for an outdoor playset or swing set:
- Consider the materials, size and cost that work best for you and your family.
- Look for a playset that lets you add or adjust activities.
- You need a level, unobstructed space for the structure and the safe zone around it.
- Following the assembly instructions, add a safe fill material and periodically inspect the structure.
- Make sure everyone is playing safely while enjoying the playset or swing set.
Shop Lowes.com for your new outdoor playset or swing set, as well as the tools and materials you need to create your backyard playground. If you don’t want to install a playset yourself, let us install it. Stop by your local Lowe’s and talk to a Lowe’s Red Vest Associate. They can help you find the perfect play structure, show you everything you need to install it or for playsets, help you set up installation. Whether you do it yourself or let us install your new playset, don’t wait — start creating core memories with your kids today.
Swing Set and Outdoor Playset FAQs
Use the answers to these questions to help you find the best playset or swing set.