Comparing Backyard Playsets Backyard swings and playsets are popular with families with children, daycare centers, churches and neighborhood associations as a great way for kids to be physically active while using their imaginations. They are made from multiple materials, come in various sizes and can be customized with a variety of accessories. Quality backyard swing and playsets can cost a lot of money depending on the size, material, and
features that can be added to each one. With so many options it is a good idea to compare these features before making a purchase. Swing and playsets have several different base options. Angled-base playsets are designed to be sturdy, height-adjustable and create the most deck space, both above and below a clubhouse. They are popular for their ample space beneath the clubhouse
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portion of the playset, which allows you to create more play space by hanging a tire swing or setting up a picnic table. You can also customize the sloped sides with rock walls, rope walls or ladders. Adjustable-base playsets are optimized for backyards that are uneven or sloped. Each base-post is adjustable to fit the terrain of your backyard so you don’t have to re-landscape your yard to make a flat, even surface. Multi-level playset designs combine different designs into one swing and playset. They have two or more features at different heights that are typically connected by features such as a slide, bridge or ladder. Multi-level designs give kids more space to customize and play. Each swing and playset is designed with one or multiple features to enhance kids’ experience while playing. Many companies offer large selections of pre-built designs that include multiple features made for that specific design. You can also find companies that have highly customizable designs, allowing you to change features as kids grow. • Slides: Slides can either be open or closed and are built in multiple styles that give kids different paths out of the playset. Be mindful of the material of the slide and try to avoid fiberglass, which can wear over time, loosening the fibers. • Swings: Different playset designs can accommodate a different number of swings, but most can be outfitted with traditional, individual swings, tire swings or bench swings. • Clubhouses: Clubhouses can stand alone as their own playset or be attached to a swing or playset at various levels above the ground. They can be outfitted with things like locking doors and doorbells, flower boxes, tables, and canopies. • Walls: Popular alternatives to ladders are various types of walls that lead up to the clubhouse. Rock walls, rope-ladder walls and solid walls with a single rope hanging down for climbing are common www.playgroundprofessionals.com/magazine