With so many choices today it's very hard as a parent to make a decision regarding which swing set is best for your family. A lot more goes into it than just looking at the price. There are tons of different things to consider, some of them even before you start looking at different models.
Swing Set Placement
Swing sets are often a lot more than just three swings with a small slide attached. They come in a vast array of different styles, materials and sizes. You will need to study your yard to figure out where you want to put your swing set before you do anything else. Pick out a spot that is relatively level and then decide on the approximate dimensions your land can handle. Be sure to leave a couple of feet of space around your chosen area so the swings don't hit anything when in use and your children don't hit trees or walls when coming off the slide.
Swing Set Materials
If you have a shaded area in your yard where you can put your swing set, then you might want to consider getting one constructed out of metal. This way the slide won't get too hot during the summer months. If you have no shade you may want to think about getting a wooden set with plastic accessories that don't heat up as readily. A swing set that your children can't use during summer vacation defeats the whole purpose. If you do decide to go with a wooden swing set, then be sure that the wood is high-quality and treated so that your children don't get splinters. Remember that as the set gets older you'll need to maintain it by pressure washing and sealing the wood to avoid splintering problems in the future.
Swing Set Usage
Another consideration you'll need to think about before purchasing a swing set is how many people will be using it. Do you have a lot of children? Do they have a lot of friends? You won't want a really small set if a lot of children will be playing on it, because they'll just end up getting frustrated and fighting over it. Also, make sure you get something durable enough so that your kids will still be able to play on it when they get older. A swing set is an investment that should last for years and years and should be able to provide years of fun for your children and their friends.
Swing Set Research
Before purchasing you may want to visit various review sites online to see what people have to say about your chosen swing set. Is it durable? Do their kids like it? Is it easy to maintain and put together? The internet is an invaluable tool for finding information on a variety of different products, swing sets included.
Swing Set Assembly
Once you decide on what you think is the best swing set for your unique situation you should check with the store or company you're buying it from to see if they will deliver it and assemble it for you. If you are planning on putting it together yourself, then you should definitely check out the instructions to see if they are clear and easy to follow. There is nothing more frustrating than getting stuck in the middle of putting a swing set together because the instructions are vague and difficult to understand. Be sure you have all the tools you need before purchasing as well.
With the huge number of swing sets on the market today it's easy to get lazy and just choose the first one that looks good and is affordable. Use the guide above to help understand how to make an informed decision that you and your children won't regret