How to Build a Swing Set
Remember the days when your backyard swing set gave endless screams of ‘higher’? There were two triangles and a bar attaching them. In-between there were two swings with wooden or plastic seats. A few bolts here, a few nuts there, and the swing set was ready to go.
What to Buy
It really depends on the child. If they like to play war or fairy princess games perhaps a tree-fort type structure with a drawbridge is in order. Are they little monkeys? Maybe a set of rings should be a choice. The combinations are endless. Fortunately, the swing set aspect always seems to remain in one form or another.
The Triangle Swing Set
swing setIf you are going to give it a go, try and get your hands on some plans; it may take some doing but they are out there somewhere. Home stores are your best bet and some may even offer you a little help. When you find the plans make sure they are complete with oversized pictures of the instructions in simple language. A list of tools and materials required should also be included.
Ask Questions
The home stores know a good thing when they see it. They see a dad and kid with a set of plans for a swing set. If that isn’t a sure sign of a Visa card about to get cashed there isn’t one. Make some notes about the plans and ask away. Don’t leave anything out. This is your kid swinging 10 feet off the ground after all.
Play Area Layout
Before you get started take a look at where you are planning to put the swing set. Look for objects that a high flying head could hit, or objects that might impale a child if they are thrown from the swing set. Check the ground out - a soft surface is preferred to a dirt surface. Ground-up rubber is a good cover to consider - as is thick mulch. Make sure it is laid thickly so a bouncing child will bounce if hit.
Quick Safety
If footings are going in to keep the swing set upright, err on the side of over design. More than once you may find yourself on the swing set despite the plans’ relating to a child’s set. A fence post to hold a fence gate goes in two feet deep. For a swing set in motion another foot anyway might be a good idea. Although it may be on the plans always be on the lookout for places which a finger can get into. It may appear impossible at first glance but it usually becomes possible as you hear the finger snap. Lastly, round corners are king. If it even appears to have a corner on it round it over.
Once it’s built, try it out a couple of times before you put your kids on it. Test drive it to make sure it works perfectly.