Guidelines for Creative Playthings maintenance for wooden swing sets. Wooden swing sets will last for years with proper maintenance. Maintenance of the Playtime Series Playset finish will vary depending on weather climate. As a safety precaution, check all hardware for tightness twice a month during use and at the beginning of each play season. Tighten as required and specified in the owners manual. Do not over tighten. Check structure twice monthly during usage for any evidence of deterioration. If upon inspection, hardware has sharp edges, rusted or structural pieces have signs of premature failure; replace them through Creative Playthings Customer Service. Oil all metallic moving parts monthly during the usage season. The swings, trapeze, tent, rope ladders, and any other removable plastic accessories should be removed and taken indoors when outside temperatures drop below 32° F (0° C). Wood will expand and contract as it adjusts to temperature changes and varying moisture conditions. Checks or cracks are a natural characteristic of all wood and will not affect the strength or durability of the wooden components. To maintain the finish of your swing set, a light sanding and an application of an exterior stain will repair scratches and prevent wood from aging prematurely. Finishes applied to ladder rungs must not create a slippery surface. Never varnish or paint! When refinishing rungs, sand lightly and use an exterior stain or boiled linseed oil. The wood parts of your Playset should never be disposed of by burning. Dispose of all parts so as not to create a hazard.