Although, we overwhelmingly prefer Pine and Woodlawn’s designs, we understand that personal preference is still the most important criteria when investing in a wooden swing set. We want you and your family to enjoy it safely. Below is a checklist of questions to ask and things to look for to help you if you choose a Redwood set.

If you buy a Redwood swing set:

• Look for strength enhancements
  • Support beams should be at least 6″ x 6″ beams.
  • Steel or Pine braces should support the deck structure.
  • Make sure the monkey bars posts are at least 4″ x 6″, as 2″ x 6″ Redwood supports will not hold heavier weights. Some swing set manufacturers even put a steel strip across the monkey bars as a fail-safe in case the wood in the monkey bars breaks.

  

• Since a Redwood swing set will be lighter than a comparable Pine swing set, be especially aware of weight limits set by the manufacturer and don’t exceed those limits with too many children on the swing set at one time.
  
• Ask whether the swing set is 100% Redwood or a blend of Redwood and Cedar. Don’t be fooled. Often times your premium-priced “Redwood” swing set will actually be a blend of Redwood and Cedar. They are very similar and, once stained, the average consumer would not be able to tell the difference between them.
  
• Use only non-corrosive, stainless steel hardware. Long-term iron exposure can contribute to deterioration, which appears similar to charring or decay or streaks called extractive bleeding on Redwood. For this reason, the California Redwood Association recommends non-corrosive hardware when building with Redwood that will be exposed to the weather. Nail or iron stains may be difficult to remove because they penetrate deeply and it can be difficult to prevent them from recurring.
  
• Prevent rot, decay and mildew by applying a seal before using a Redwood swing set, and every year thereafter. If left unprotected, Redwood will turn black. The California Redwood Association recommends that you use high-quality products. Look for products containing mildewcides, water repellents and ultraviolet protection since they provide the best performance. Carefully follow finish manufacturer’s recommendations regarding application conditions, coverage rates and number of coats. By maintaining these finishes on a regular cycle, the amount of preparation prior to refinishing will be greatly minimized. (CRA, Technical Data Sheet, Color Restoration of Redwood Siding and Decking)
  
• Do not use a string-type trimmer around the base of a Redwood swing set. The string can cut into the wood, marring it permanently.