Various Swing Sets and Their Maintenance
Swing sets are frames with slides and swings, monkey bars and other accessories for your children to enjoy in the backyard. From the traditional wooden swing sets to metals and the new vinyl swing sets, there is one for commercial use, residential use and for school playgrounds as well. The best way to lure your children to the outdoors and escape the sedentary lifestyle of television watching and computer games is by enticing them to play on the swings. No child can resist its lure. For that matter, not many adults decline the opportunity to have some fun on the swings when they can.
Wooden swing sets vs. Metal swing sets
Pros
Good quality metal swings use galvanized steel which is strong and rust-free. They are also more cost effective than wooden swing sets. Owing to the pricing and strength of metal swing sets, they make for the perfect swing sets to go on for years to come.
Wooden swing sets are sturdier than metal ones as they support more weight per child. They also last longer than their metal counterparts. Depending on the kind of lumber used and whether or not the wood is pressure-treated, some wooden swing sets can come with guarantees of 10 to 25 years. Wood also looks more natural for your backyard and come with the most construction variations. It is also generally considered to be more aesthetically pleasing for homeowners who want to have a place for the children to play without detracting form the appearance of the yard.
Cons
Comparatively, metal swing sets do not last very long. Weather and continued use wear them out faster. Though sturdy, metal swings can never match the strength of their wooden counterparts. They also tend not to be as attractive as the wooden ones.
Cost is the major factor for most consumers, and with the highly priced wooden swing sets most people are turned off from buying one. However, you get what you pay for; with the rise in price, the fun and safety increases too. Although expensive, in the long run the added expense may very well be worth it.
Maintenance of your wooden and metal swing sets
Swing sets must be inspected regularly for damage and loose nuts and bolts. At least twice a month when the swings and slides are in use, parents must check for the following:
Loose or worn hardware, protrusions or projections.
Equipment footings that are exposed.
Any scattered debris, rocks or tree roots and litter in the play area.
Any rust or chipped paint on metal swings or metal components of the swing.
Decayed wooden components, cracks in the wood or splinters that may hurt little hands.
Any corrosion or deterioration of the structural components that secure the swing sets to the ground
Damaged equipment or any missing components such as guard rails, hand rails or the seats of the swing.
In case you discover any of these in your swing sets, replace them immediately to avoid accidents. While selecting swing sets, look for one that is strong and durable enough to withstand excessive use and exposure to varied climatic conditions. Regular inspection of nuts and bolts will keep the swing good for years. All components for metal swing sets come galvanized and with proper care can go on for years. You must protect from rust and keep them well painted to enjoy them for years to come. Use lighter paints for the metal swing sets to offer a cooler touch because light color tones do not absorb much light. Metal swings can have rubber or plastic seats as metal seats can cause injuries to your children.
Specialty toy stores as well as discount super centers all stock the latest and brightest of swing sets for your children to enjoy. With easier installation and sturdy accessories available in abundance, swing sets are a joy for the entire family. These outdoor games played with friends help your child develop important qualities such as strength, cooperation, coordination and social interaction. Many kids nowadays want to sit in front of the TV all day and play video games but if you have a swing set in the back yard they will want to go outdoors and play also.
