Hello World! Welcome Friends! Play is an essential part of a kid’s childhood, that allows them to express their imagination. Installing a home play system gives them a convenient space to run around. Although, the project may require multiple steps. Here are some tips for installing a home playset.
1. Know Your Budget
Before purchasing a play system, determine how much you want to spend. The prices vary depending on their features. The average cost of installation is between $390-$550. Also, larger swing sets come with higher delivery costs. Plus, if you use professional installation that increases expenses. Having a budget prevents you from overspending just to impress your kids.
2. Pick the Right Location
Your children will run around the swingset, so you want to place it in a safe spot. One thing to consider is visibility. Have it in a location you can easily spot from inside. Make sure it is further away from the street, to increase safety and privacy.
Install the playset away from overhead obstacles, such as tree branches. Have metal pieces hidden from direct sunlight, since they can get hot. Also, check to make sure you’re not installing over any power lines or sprinklers.
3. Determine the Type of Design You Want
Decide what type of features you want ahead of time. Consider what activities your kids enjoy. For example, if they love to climb, ensure the system has a miniature rock wall. Another factor to think about is the materials. You have a few different options to choose from, such as wood, metal or vinyl.
Wood sets are more durable and visually appealing but require maintenance. If you choose wood, cedar is a good option for its resistance to fungus and decay. Metal swing sets are easier to maintain, but get hot in the summer. Vinyl is lower maintenance, but the wooden frame is vulnerable to rot.
When choosing your design, keep in mind safety. Look for commercial-grade recessed hardware, rounded corners, and solid swing beams. Plus, find a structure large enough for your kids to enjoy even as they grow older.
4. Get Your Backyard Ready
Before installation, you want to prepare your yard. Remove any debris and hazards, such as large rocks. Measure the area, so your children have plenty of space to run around. You should have a minimum of six feet within all directions of the system. Also, keep in mind the dimensions to pick a playset that fits within your space.
5. Make Sure the Ground Is Level
Having a level ground prevents the structure from tipping over.
Here are the steps to level the area:
- Measure the perimeter and mark it with wooden stakes and twine
- Use a carpenter’s level to determine if the strings are even
- Clear away dirt and grass from the area
- Measure from the twine to the base of the hole
- Use the carpenter level to ensure the base is even
6. Add Material Under the Playset
Adding materials to the ground provides cushioning for your children. You have many choices, such as wood mulch, sand, or surface mats. Mulch chips tend to be affordable but absorb moisture. You can use rubber mulch as an alternative, which is easy to install and low-maintenance. Sand or pea gravel is also cost-effective but may attract pests. Rubber mats are easier to clean but more expensive than the other options.
7. Place Anchors
Anchor the structure in place to keep your kids safe. Having a stable swingest is especially essential for windy days. Wooden kit sets usually come with metal stakes. Screw these into the ground and then bolt them to the swing set when it’s completely assembled.
Refer to the manufacture installation guide for specific instructions. If you don’t want to buy a kit, you can make your wooden stakes by cutting down a piece of lumber or using garden stakes.
8. Add Natural Elements
Your playset doesn’t have to consist of only man-made structures. Instead, incorporate elements like rope bridges to create a natural playground. These allow children to be more creative. With less structure, your child will use their imagination. For example, when playing on the trees they might imagine they’re climbing a mountain.
Creative play is important to help with your kid’s social development. It builds empathy and self-confidence. Plus, it can improve your child’s fine motor skills.
9. Test Your System
After you have assembled your swing set, test it for safety. Pull and push down on various structures, like swings and slides. Also, check to make sure the anchors are secure. Do this test when your kids are at school, so they aren’t tempted to jump on right away.
10. Keep Up With Maintenance
Once your play system is in place you can start enjoying all the benefits. Although, you still want to keep it in top shape. For wooden swingsets, clean, stain and seal the sets regularly. To clean your structure, spray it with water and use a soft brush to remove grime. Use warm water and soap to get rid of mold or mildew.
In addition, check the hardware to make sure the bolts are tight. If you have a metal set look for signs of rust and touch up with enamel paint. Suppose you have a plastic set, bring them inside during the winter.
How to Install a Home Play System
Playsets are fun structures for your kids to explore. They can keep your children entertained and promote exercise. So, follow these tips to successfully install one in your backyard.
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