Play Set FAQ

Here at Heartland, we get a lot of questions here regarding play sets, such as “What should we put under our child’s play set?” or “How much space should I leave around the set?” to name a few.  So let’s address some of these, especially those concerning safety, as nothing is more important for your child.

How much space do I need?

• Ideally, you’d like at least 6 feet of safety area around the entire swing set.  So find a nice flat area within your yard that is about 6 feet from fences and other items.  

What should we put under our child’s play set?

• Rubber padding or rubber mulch works well, but if you are in an extremely hot climate like Arizona, this can cause it to stick to the kid’s shoes and smell well, like burning rubber.  Bark mulch can work well too.  Sand attracts neighborhood cats, so take care with that.  And good old fashioned grass can work, but keep in mind this will become worn away over time, leaving a hard dirt spot.

Do play sets have to have certain safety standards?

• They do, however, you should purchase a set from a company that VOLUNTARILY meets additional safety standards, such as ASTM.  Sets that meet ASTM standards ( such as Heartland play sets) have no overlapping play zones, no head or finger entrapments, and recessed hardware.  Definitely buy a set from a manufacturer that goes the extra mile for your child’s safety.

We know children can get exercise through playing on play sets, but what other benefits are there, really?

• Play sets DO improve health and fitness, that is for sure.  But in addition to building physical skills, children develop social skills such as decision making and resolving differences.  Furthermore, children learn to use their imagination.  Deck areas become pirate ships or special forts.

Is there a material that is best for play sets?

• Metal can rust and get very hot in the sun.  Wood is your best choice.  Heartland uses premium Southern Yellow Pine wood, which is 2x stronger than cedar. You also want to look at the thickness of the wood, with the thicker, the better.  Make sure you compare this on play sets you are considering, especially looking at the deck areas where a lot of jumping and running happens.

Can play sets be moved?

• Depending on who your manufacturer is, usually yes.  Heartland play sets can be disassembled and easily moved.  However, please keep in mind that this could void your warranty.

Creating Great Childhood Memories

 

Kids Wood Play Sets-What You REALLY Need To Know!

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”?