Welcome to the Ultimate Guide to Safe Playsets!
As you read, you’ll discover:
- How to choose the safest playground
- How to install a playground on a safe surface
Kids and Playgrounds: A Match Made in Heaven
Let’s face it, kids of all ages adore playgrounds. But if you’re tired of the endless trips to the park and the inevitable “Five more minutes!” battles, why not bring the fun to your backyard? Your kids can enjoy all the benefits of a playground without the travel hassle. Safety is your top priority, and with so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with the six essentials of a safe playset.
1. Installation: Leave it to the Pros
No one wants a wobbly wonderland. For a safe and secure playhouse and swing set, it’s best to call in the professionals. We have an inhouse crew that can not only delivery your playset but install it make sure everything’s anchored correctly, so you can relax and know your kids are safe from unexpected disassembly while mid-swing.
2. Composition Material: Wood vs. Metal Showdown
Wood or metal? That is the question. Both materials have their perks:
- Metal: Lighter, less upkeep, but can get hot in the sun (ouch!), if something does fail it’s more costly to fix and installation is typically more costly.
- Wood: Easy on the eyes and eco-friendly but need the occasional restaining.
Choose your fighter based on your needs but remember—neither is a knockout punch for safety. For more tips on creating the perfect play area, check out our blog post “The Scoop on Ground Cover” to learn about the best options for safe and comfortable play surfaces.
3. Safety Hazards: Maintenance is Key
Even the safest playset can become a danger zone if neglected. Regularly check bolts, S-hooks, and look out for cracks wider than a nickel in wooden sets. If you spot one, don’t panic—just contact your playset provider and process a warranty claim.
4. Surface Material: Cushion Those Falls
The ground beneath the playset is a game-changer for safety. Avoid hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt. Instead, opt for:
- Mulch
- Rubber mats
- Pea gravel
- Grass
These materials offer the perfect cushioning if your little acrobat takes a tumble.
5. Age-Appropriation: Right Playset, Right Age
Playsets come in all shapes and sizes for different age groups. It’s said to buy a playset as if your child was 10 years so because let’s face it, they won’t stay little forever, and you don’t want to invest in a playset for them to outgrow it in a year or two. You might think that they won’t be able to use it until they are 10 but they will be developing their small motor skills as they work at getting up that Rockwall or on the Jacobs ladder. They will just need supervision and help until they have mastered these skills.
6. Manufacturer’s Reputation: Trust the Experts
Price matters, but so does reputation. Look for playset providers with stellar reviews and ask for recommendations. A reputable company will give you peace of mind that safety is at the forefront of their design. Check on the warranty and service the playset provider offers. Nothing like buying a box kit playset to have to slave over getting it installed then have no back up when things go wrong.
Backyard Fun Zone: Your Go-To for Safe Playsets
If you’re ready to turn your backyard into a playground paradise, look no further than Backyard Fun Zone. Located in Cedar Springs, MI, we offer a wide variety of safe and entertaining playsets for kids of all ages. Browse our online catalog or contact us at 1-616-785-7383 for more information. Stop by and try them out for yourself to see what best fits your family’s needs we have several on display just waiting for some action.
There you have it—your guide to creating a fun, safe, and hassle-free playground right in your backyard!
Featured Image: Stuart Monk/Shutterstock
