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Are Metal and Wooden Playsets a Good Idea?

When it comes to choosing a swing set or playset for your backyard, wooden or metal sets are some of the first ones people think about. While both options have their merits, they also come with a set of drawbacks that can impact your family’s enjoyment and safety. Read on to learn about the potential downsides of metal and wooden swing sets and playsets to help you make an informed choice that aligns with your family’s needs and lifestyle. From maintenance challenges to safety concerns, having a better understanding of these factors can guide you towards a set that not only makes your outdoor space look more attractive but also provides a safe and enjoyable play environment for your children.

Metal Playsets and Swing Sets

  1. Heat Absorption: Metal, especially in direct sunlight, absorbs heat very quickly and retains it for a considerable amount of time. This can cause the metal surfaces of a playset, such as slides, swings, monkey bars and rails to become very hot and children touching these hot surfaces can suffer from bad burns, causing significant pain and injury.
  2. Cold Temperatures: In colder climates, metal surfaces can become very cold, especially during the winter months; this can make the playset uncomfortable and could even be painful for little hands using it. Cold metal can also increase the risk of hypothermia in very cold conditions.
  3. Limited Cushioning: Metal is a very rigid material and this means that in the event of a fall, there is minimal shock absorption; falls onto hard metal surfaces can result in increased risk of injuries such as scrapes, bruises and even fractures. 
  4. Rust and corrosion: Metal is susceptible to rust and corrosion, especially when exposed to moisture, humidity and salt air. Rust makes the metal structure weak and thus, makes it unsafe for use. Corrosion can also lead to sharp edges and points that pose a risk of injury for kids. 
  5. Less Aesthetically Appealing: Some people find the appearance of metal playsets to be less visually appealing than other materials. Metal can often look industrial and less natural in a backyard. This can be a factor for homeowners who prioritize the aesthetic appeal of their outdoor space and overall property.

Wooden Playsets and Swing Sets

  1. Maintenance: Wooden playsets require significant ongoing care. Regular sealing or staining is crucial to protect the wood from moisture, UV rays and other environmental factors; this helps prevent rot, decay and cracking, which can lead to painful splinters. Frequent inspections and upkeeping are needed to ensure the safety of children.
  2. Rot and Decay: Wood is a natural material that is susceptible to rot and decay, especially when exposed to moisture and humidity. This can weaken the structural integrity of the playset, making it unsafe for use. Rotting wood can harbor mold or mildew which can pose health risks to children. 
  3. Pest Infestation: Wood can be an attractive target for pests such as termites, carpenter ants and wood-boring beetles. These pests can cause great damage to wood that is not frequently treated, compromising the structural integrity of the playset and potentially making it unsafe.
  4. Fire Hazard: Being a flammable material, wood increases the risk of fire-related incidents. A stray spark or a nearby fire can ignite a wooden playset, leading to potential injuries to kids and significant property damage.

 

Metal playsets

At the end of the day, the “best” playset material depends on individual needs and priorities. Metal playsets offer durability and, thanks to its malleability, more design options, but considerations like heat absorption, cold temperatures and limited cushioning should be carefully weighed. Wooden playsets provide a natural aesthetic but require significant maintenance. By carefully considering these factors and always prioritizing safety, you will be able to make a better decision on whether to go for one or the other. 

At Adventure World Playsets we like our readers and customers to make the best informed decisions which is why we suggest you also take a look at our playsets, since they are built from pressure treated wood but with the enormous difference of having it all covered in durable vinyl, which will prevent rot, decay and pest infestation and will limit maintenance to easy wipe downs, while giving you a 20 year warranty on your swing set frame. 

 

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