Hobbies And Interests
Plastic or Vinyl Swing Sets
Most plastic swing sets are made by companies such as Step 2 and Little Tykes for younger children. The smallest are modular and easy to assemble, often no more than 4 feet high. Larger plastic vinyl swing sets are up to about 7 feet high and may use metal or heavy PVC supports. While these swing sets are lightweight and durable, they are also usually not suitable for children older than 10.
Metal Swing Sets
Metal swing sets are heavier and larger, able to support larger children and less expensive than the other models. They are durable and, if well-maintained, can look good for years. The biggest drawback of metal swing sets is safety. Plastic covers easily fall off exposing bolt tips. Support legs must be well-anchored to prevent it from tipping over. All fasteners must be checked for tightness on a regular basis. In addition, poorly-maintained metal swing sets often rust or corrode, leaving weak spots that can give way unexpectedly. Metal swing sets are also not modular, so if you want a larger one in the future you'll have to purchase a new set.
Redwood Swing Sets
Redwood swing sets are made of red-toned California redwood, which weathers well outside. These sets are more expensive than metal swing sets, but you can start with a small swing set and add new modules later. Redwood is a lightweight wood, making it easier to assemble, but you may have to anchor the supports for smaller sets or heavier children. Well-maintained redwood swing sets can last and look good for more than a decade.
Pine Wood Swing Sets
Pine wood swing sets are modular, like redwood, and when stained look very similar. However, pine is a heavier wood, making the sets harder to assemble but significantly sturdier. Pine wood also bears weight somewhat better, so larger children can safely play on the swing sets. With proper care, pine wood swing sets can last as long as redwood sets. Pine wood swing sets are more expensive than redwood swing sets and may also be more expensive to install.
Vinyl-Clad Wood Swing Sets
The most expensive swing set is the vinyl-clad wood swing set. These are often simply referred to as vinyl. These sets combine the best of plastic and wood sets: easy to clean, strong and durable, suitable for older children and modular. However, the cost of vinyl-clad wood swing sets puts them outside the budgets of many families.