A backyard swing set isn’t a small purchase. It’s meant to last, to grow along with your children, and to entertain and delight future generations.
But like most things you own, backyard swing sets will only last through proper care and maintenance. That’s why we’ve put together this list of ways you can maintain your outdoor swing sets year-round.
1. Conduct routine inspections
What do we mean by “routine”? Well, that will depend on where you live. If you’re in a warmer climate that allows your kids to play outside year-round, you should inspect the swing set every month.
In places where wintry weather chases kids inside, perform an inspection in the spring before your kids get back to the swing set, and then a few more times before the cold weather returns.
Look at the chains, plastic components and smaller pieces. Inspect bolts and screws to make sure they aren’t sticking out or causing sharp edges. And tighten nuts and bolts as needed.
When dealing with a wooden swing set, check for cracks and splinters. The latter can be remedied with a piece of sandpaper. The former requires a replacement part.
2. Put smaller pieces away in the winter
If you live in an area where backyard swing sets are out of commission for the winter, you might want to consider removing any parts that are easy to detach during the cold weather months, including:
- Swings
- Gliders
- Rope ladders
- Trapezes
- Canopy roofs
By tucking these parts away for winter, you’ll extend their life and avoid deterioration.
3. Add stain and sealant to the wood
This is one of the keys to ensuring the longevity of a wooden swing set. Many outdoor swing sets come pre-stained and/or pre-sealed. If not, it’s a good practice to have the wood sealed within two to three months after installation.
And even if you buy a pre-stained, pre-sealed swing set, you should still plan on resealing the wood once a year and adding new stain every two to three years.
Sealants can either be water or oil-based. Either type is fine, as long as it’s waterproof, and guards against UV rays. Make sure you add stain from the top down, so any liquid that drips down can blend into the wood as you go.
3. Clean your swing set
Giving your swing set a regular bath accomplishes several things. You’ll prevent stains in the wood, keep it looking nicer, while allowing you to avoid having to apply stain as often.
All you’ll need to clean your swing set is a hose and some mild soap, and maybe a soft brush to clear away bird droppings or dirt. Let the swing set dry for 24 hours after you wash it before you apply a coat of sealant or stain.
If this sounds like more than you were planning to take on, don’t worry. Swingset & Toy Warehouse offers swing set maintenance packages that include:
- Hardware tightening
- Oil swing hangers
- Spot sanding
- Water sealant application
- Filling in holes left by carpenter bees
Contact us today to set up maintenance service, and let us help you protect your outdoor swing set.
