Swing Sets And Jungle Gyms - The Kids Want One
Have the children told you they want a jungle gym for the backyard? If the answer is yes, you are not alone. Parents across the USA are faced with that question every day of the week. When the weather breaks and the days start to warm up kids want to play outside longer. The question is this; you already know the kids want a jungle gym for the backyard, however do you? Ask yourself that question and really think about it and how it would directly affect your family and lifestyle. It is a big purchase and one that should not be taken lightly. There is the asking price the retailers charge and the annual maintenance that needs your consideration before you make the investment.
You need to make your mind up if you have the space for one and how much you are willing to spend. Clearly in your mind, the kids want the largest structure with multiple slides, forts and bridges and mom and dad need to stay within a certain dollar range. Generally speaking the bigger the swing set the bigger the price tag. Looking for sales and clearance will be a factor if you have a limited budget or just to stay within your budget guidelines. Maintenance is questionable because you will have to decide whether or not you want to annually stain and seal the lumber if you choose a wooden swing set.
Wooden swing sets are available in all sorts of wood and that doesn’t necessary mean you will need to sand or stain every type. There are so many options in wood playsets. You can take a look at the vinyl clad, cedar, pine and redwood sets. Each has there own features and benefits so just decide which will best suit your needs. Vinyl is the nicest because it is very strong and you will never have to stain, seal or sand and that means no splinters for the kids and more time for dad because he isn’t sanding or staining. Other woods can just weather without staining or sealing but it drastically reduces the years of use. Metal swing sets are another viable option and are a lot of fun for kids even though they are smaller is size.
Value, size, and safety are the three questions that will help you in your decision.
Value is determined by the number of years you think the family will use the equipment versus how much you pay. Entertainment value, and what that means to the kids when you try to put a dollar value on it.
Size is determined by the space available in the backyard and should include a safety zone. Do you want a small set or a huge play structure? Kids enjoy playing on any of them.
Safety is determined by the size of the beams and support structures. The hardware is important for strength and durability as well as structural support. Swing hangers, hardware and chains should be heavy-duty.








