Cedar vs. Redwood: What You Need to Know When Buying a Wooden Swing Set

Shopping for a new backyard swing set? Let us tell you all about the benefits of a redwood playground.

The great thing about redwood playgrounds is that they’re an environmentally-friendly choice. Or is that cedar playgrounds? No, cedar playgrounds are great because they’re so durable…which is also one of the main selling points for a redwood swing set. But the really nice thing about cedar is how these sets look in your yard…except we can say the same thing about redwood playgrounds.

The truth is, if you’re considering a wooden option for your backyard swing set, both cedar and redwood offer a lot of the same great benefits.

1. Safe and durable

Wooden swing sets made from cedar and redwood are designed to last. Cedar is grown in harsh conditions, making its wood remarkably sturdy and able to resist warping in humid weather.

And redwood has a unique grain that makes it less prone to warping. Both woods can repel rot, decay and insect damage. Of the two woods, redwood is more durable – and will therefore cost more – but that’s not to say that cedar isn’t an exceedingly reliable option.

Whether you’re looking for an elaborate backyard playset or a smaller toddler swing set, either cedar or redwood offers a durable solution.

2. Attractive

Both redwood and cedar are attractive options. On this front, it comes down to personal preference. Redwood – like its name suggests – has a reddish tint, while cedar is more of a yellow shade. Both woods will turn a silvery color if not properly maintained.

3. Environmentally friendly

Both redwood and cedar are 100 percent natural products and are both grown according to Forest Stewardship Council standards. The harvesting practices for redwood ensure that more trees are being planted than there being chopped down for lumber.

No matter which wood you choose for your backyard swing set, there are some steps you can take to make sure your investment lasts:

• Both types of wood are durable, but you can make them last even longer by adding a sealant and covering your set with a tarp during wet/cold seasons when your kids aren’t spending a lot of time in the backyard.
• When cold weather comes, take steps to protect the different plastic elements that are part of your backyard swing set. They may not be designed for sub-freezing weather.
• Start each spring with a swing set inspection. Make sure all nuts and bolts are properly tightened and replace any chains or plastic seat covers that have seen excessive wear.
• Swing set maintenance extends past the set itself, down to the ground below. Make sure the base around your backyard swing set is properly maintained. Rake the base every few weeks to maintain the appropriate depth and unearth debris.
• If you have a mulch base, replace it once a year. Sand bases can be replaced every few years.
• Add an extra dose of protection to your set with our Level Dry system, which prevents damage from moisture, insects and yard equipment.

No matter what type of wooden swing set seems right for you, Swingset & Toy Warehouse can help. We offer one of the largest display areas in New Jersey, a great way for you to explore our cedar playgrounds and redwood playgrounds, as well as our vinyl swing sets and toddler swing sets.

Visit one of our four stores today to find the backyard swing set that’s right for your family.