| Consumers can usually choose from wood, steel or | | | | important to pay attention to the type of steel used. |
| plastic construction. Some of the newer playsets on | | | | Choices are carbon steel, galvanized steel or painted |
| the market combine plastic and wood which creates | | | | steel and you will need to pay attention to what is |
| a fantastic looking swing set. KidWise is one of the | | | | advertised so you purchase a good metal set. The |
| manufacturers that combines this technology in there | | | | Kettler brand utilizes the highest carbon steel that will |
| line of Monkey Playsystems. Gorilla Playsets also has | | | | not bow with use. Strong, powder coated steel |
| this combination in there Blue Ridge Series line for | | | | frame finished in primary vibrant colors. Special double |
| residential backyards. All plastic units are safer for | | | | coated polyester power coat finish that is warranted |
| younger children (such as toddlers in Pre-School) but | | | | for 3 years against fading. Metal Swing Sets do offer |
| usually are not recommended for older Kids. Step 2 | | | | some of the same play options that are found on |
| and Little Tikes are two manufacturers who | | | | wood units such as slides, swings, monkey bars, |
| specialize in this type of toddler unit. | | | | gliders and do not offer play forts, fireman's poles or |
| Wooden swing sets seem to be the favorite choice | | | | climbers. Metal is thought to be the strongest option |
| among consumers due to the several factors, one | | | | on the industry. However, it is important to purchase |
| being the strength and structural integrity of the unit. | | | | a quality set and the legs of the unit should always |
| Most of the wood sets are built with 4 x 4 corner | | | | be cemented into the ground. Make sure you |
| posts for the forts (deck framing) with strong top | | | | purchase high carbon steel or galvanized steel so the |
| beams with iron ductile swing hangers. Wood playsets | | | | chances of it rusting will be reduced. |
| can compliment the backyard decor and tend to | | | | When choosing a play set, do not pick the one that |
| blend in with nature better than metal swing sets. | | | | is the best looking or the first one you see. Be very |
| Overall, the last 3 to 5 years, wooden swing sets | | | | cautious though the selection process as the number |
| have become the one number choice due to the | | | | of playsystems on the market is extensive. Take |
| changes made in the playground industry regarding | | | | your time, makes notes and research each play set |
| safety, construction, design and quality. These | | | | and manufacturer. There is a lot more to picking a |
| residential playsystems present the largest play | | | | wooden swing set than simply purchasing the first |
| options for children and the configurations are | | | | model that looks great. As an educated consumer |
| endless. | | | | you will be able to select the right swing set for your |
| Metal swing sets are another option but it is | | | | family based on safety, quality and your budget. |