Wooden Swing Set
A wooden swing set with a slide is a big investment and should be investigated thoroughly before such a purchase. Since these sets can cost between two thousand and ten thousand dollars a piece they are in fact
considered to be a structure. They are not the swingsets we grew up with years ago. Consider the size of these wooden jungle gyms because any room you thought you had in your back yard has suddenly become a lot smaller.
Find out how big they are and measure the space you currently have to see if it fits into place. They come with swings, small elevated shelters, rock walls and slides.
It is a difficult decision to make,but a worthwhile one. Don’t forget in your decision to buy one of these wooden swing sets that you may have the option to resell it. Since they are so durable and long lasting they will probably stay in he same condition that they were initially purchased. To keep your wooden swingset in prime condition you may need to stain it depending on what kind of wood it was built with. Redwood and cedar can be stained. Buying a quality wooden swing set made of large 4x4s’ should last for a long time, like any item you buy, the longevity of it usually correlates to the quality. Wooden swing sets can be bought with thick 4×4 wood lumber or you could buy it with small 1×4 or 1×6 lumber. The swing sets that you find at a local do it yourself center will usually be small lumber type sets. The other option is to buy direct from a specialty company that manufactures them and solely profits on them. They will be better in construction and will usually have some type of warranty on them. They can install them too and will for a small fee reinstall them if you move. A Big backyard swing set that are this large and expensive can be left at your home and may be a way to sell your home easier.
Wood Boring Carpenter Bees
Some of the disadvantages of a wooden swingset is the problem with wood boring bees. Depending on where you live you might have a problem with these pests. The bees can find a swing set in a geographic area or in a city and just a few cities over not be active. They can destroy swingsets fast if they are ignored. The carpenter bees can drill into the wood fast and can penetrate making a catacomb of tunnels. Trying to chase them away and kill them is a twenty four hour battle. If you don’t find a nest in time the wood peckers can add to the damage and peck their way into the wood to find the bees. Plugging up the holes with steel wool and spraying them is very time consuming and usually the bees always win. Find a good reputable bug service to spray bi monthly to keep them out.
It is important to remember your local city codes, because they will sometimes prohibit large wooden structures like these. Also remember your neighbors and the view they may have, try to discuss this so they will not complain or find your swingset offensive.
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Outdoor Swing Set Kits
Building a swing set with a swing set kit takes some time but if you are somewhat handy you can create a play area and swing set for your children. Outdoor swing set kits are found on the internet and are easily built by just reading the directions. The high cost of buying a set and having it assembled can really put a dent in your wallet. A five thousand or ten thousand dollar swing set is not uncommon.
To get your wood you will need to go to your local wood supplier. Usually 2×4 and 4×4′s are needed to create a strong structure that can hold a lot of weight. The lumber you buy should be pressure treated to withstand the weather. Don’t buy any of type wood to do the project, because it might cost you more money in the long run. Talk to the wood supplier to see what type of lumber they suggest for swing sets. Typically its treated pine. Pick your timber so you don’t get warped or curved pieces. Remember that pressure treated lumber is infused with a waterborne substance that protects it from wood boring insects such as carpenter bees and termites. It is called AQC and it has been tested for safety for people and animals. A decision has to be made when purchasing a wooden swing set kit. You will have to balance the risk of exposing your kids to this chemical or exposing your child to a bug service to exterminate the bees and termites if they attack your playground. Pressure treated lumber also has a tendency to warp.
When buying an outdoor swing set kit, plans and parts are supplied with directions to make the job an easier project. Bolts, nuts, hinges, hangers and brackets all get counted and packaged together with the kit you buy. Ideally you should have around three people to help you but two can handle just about any job.
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