Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Design a plan for your play set before you begin construction. Consider the space you have available and how complex a structure you can realistically build. Consider the interests of your kids: would they most enjoy a fortress, a pirate ship, a secret hideout, or an all-purpose structure with swings and slides?
Implement safety features into your design. Commercially-built play sets are required to adhere to certain safety specifications that you might want to use in your home-built play set. For instance, safety guidelines state the top of all railings must be at least 29 inches high for children under 5, and 38 inches for kids 5 to 12. Protective barriers are also required on elevated platforms higher than 30 inches for children under 5, and around platforms higher than 48 inches for older children.
Build the frame and support structure. For safety, set support posts in concrete-filled holes that are 42 to 48 inches deep. Cut all parts with a saw, and drill holes for the bolts. Use wrenches to tighten the bolts further if needed.
Install plenty of diagonal support braces for structural stability throughout the play set. Add any accessories such as swings, ladders, and slides, but ensure that the spacing and height is appropriate for young children. If you build a swing set, make sure the support beam is at least 10 feet from the ground to give an adequate arc for the swings.
Sand all wood surfaces thoroughly with sandpaper. This is an important step for safety as well as appearance.
Cover the ground under the play set with sand or another soft material. This significantly improves the play set's safety by reducing the risk of injury.