For those of us who are lucky enough to have a backyard, there is a lot we can do to maximize the space for our children. One of the ways to do that is with outdoor wooden playsets.
These can be made of various materials such as wood, plastic, metal etc. Each of them have their own advantages and disadvantages. Plastic looks great with all the bright colors and designs. But years of use can lead to wear and tear and the plastic can crack or even break. Metal is much more durable, but does not usually withstand years of outdoor weather without rusting or warping. Metal also conducts heat and can be dangerously hot to touch when under the summer sun.
This leaves us with wood, as the material of choice for an outdoor playset. Wood is the best because it can withstand all weathers, does not easily get attacked by insects, crack or break. It is also an eco-friendly alternative.
Having established the best material for a playset, let us now look at some more requisites to make it just perfect for your little ones.
Buy only the best wood and then only that which has been certified by the ASTM. Also buy sturdier woods such as cedar or rosewood. Check whether the wood has been treated with chemicals to prevent wood rot or insects from damaging it. While these chemicals are good for the wood, they can be harmful for children.
Buy large beams or planks of wood. This is because the larger pieces are denser and therefore stronger. The 4″x4″ beams are a good choice. Also, protruding bolts can cut skin and catch clothing, resulting in a nasty fall. Always ensure that your outdoor playset has recessed fittings that will not cause injury.
Ladders are the culprits in many playset injuries. Ensure that the ones you fit have correctly angled steps, are skidproofed and have no loose rungs. Similarly guard rails too must not be small enough to trap a hand or a head nor so big that a little child can slip through.
Finally, invest in outdoor wooden playsets that can be added to or modified to grow with your children and their needs and interests. Buy one which has the provision for more elements to be added and the older ones taken off. This will provide many years of fun and laughter in your own backyard.