Where’s The Beef?
A lot of us can still remember this famous line from a successful fast food ad campaign. It asked a very fundamental “burger” question… Are you getting what you paid for?
The question is just as valid if you are shopping for a Wood Play Set. Today, many companies are chasing lower retail price points and it’s a very good time to ask “Where’s the Beef”.
What are you really getting for your hard earned dollar???
Here is a short list to help you ask the “right” questions when shopping for a quality play set for your child or grandchild.
1) Is it safe?
Does the play set meet all ASTM safety standards? This requirement is currently voluntary for residential play sets but… would you buy a residential swing set that didn’t meet a government safety requirement for commercial swing set and might contain a trap or hazard for your child? Or purchase from a company who put’s your child’s safety first?
2) Will it last?
Is the set constructed out of premium wood? Is it “beefy”? More wood and weight make for a stronger, more stable set. Today, many play companies are using a much thinner and lighter wood product from China. Some of the structural pieces are even laminated!
These may look pretty and they certainly are a lower cost material but… will they hold up? A good “shake” test will tell you a lot about the construction and materials of each set.
3) Is the hardware heavy duty?
Swing hangers, ropes, pinch free chains, belt swings, slides etc. should all stand up to rigorous play. While it may be tough to detect or “see” the difference of quality components on various play sets, look closely when shopping and “feel” the difference. Your kids will appreciate it with hours of safe, comfortable fun.
4) How will it look in my yard after a year?
Is the play set you are considering hand-stained with an appearance stain? Will it need to be re-stained year after year to keep looking good or, is it stained with a pressure process that penetrates the wood to the core (much preferred!) and looks better year after year? Some of the best play sets on the market are now treated with a MicroShades staining process that guarantees fade resistance. Make sure the play set you purchase has this, the newer appearance will help you get some of your money back if you chose to re-sell the play set to a neighbor when your kids or grandkids are done with it!
5) Is it warranted and guaranteed?
Does the company selling the set have a strong safety record and a proven customer service record? Why would you deal with anyone else??
That’s my list. I hope it helps you make an informed decision.
Remember, a quality play set will last years with proper care and provide a helping hand with your young ones. Improved physical and social skills, better long term health, fitness and creativity are just a few of the benefits of backyard play.
Don’t forget to ask the question before you buy… “Where’s the Beef”?
