Full Answer
Are playsets built on level ground?
Playsets are designed to sit level. If the playset is not built on level ground, it may be putting stress on joints, hardware, or the wood itself, that it was not designed to withstand. Picture this: A playset with a clubhouse tower and a swing set.
Do you have to level the ground for a swing set?
Any backyard playground DIY project should have a level base to provide a safe area for your children to play. Swing set anchors are designed to keep the unit in place but if there is any slope, you'll need to level the yard to prevent the playground equipment from tipping over. Installing a swing set requires leveling the ground.
How do you level the ground for a playset?
Digging into and redistributing the soil might be the simplest way to level the ground for your playset, but it is not the easiest. Digging up sod, removing soil, raking it out… you’re sure to work up a sweat, but a little hard work now will help make your playset safe.
Do Adventure World playsets need level ground?
Level Ground An Adventure World playset requires level ground in order to be sturdy and safe for your children. The base of the playset tower requires the most even ground in order to be stable.
How do you set the ground for a playset?
0:501:52How to Prepare your Yard for the Installation of a Playset - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou want to install your playset on solid level ground such as grass or dirt avoid. Hard surfacesMoreYou want to install your playset on solid level ground such as grass or dirt avoid. Hard surfaces such as asphalt or concrete now adding a protective surfacing area around your playset is great.
How much clearance does a playset need?
To plan for maximum safety, the Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends 6 feet of clear space around all sides of the playset. If you choose to have swings, however, the recommendation is to have clear space equal to twice the arc of the swings to both the front and back of the playset.
Can you put a swingset on uneven ground?
Swing sets are designed to be safe when installed on flat surfaces. But this doesn't mean you can't install a set on a sloped yard. On steeper slopes, enlist a contractor to level and compact a section that's large enough for the set, with additional room for safely getting on and off.
Can you put a playset on a slope?
So, can you put a playset on a slope? Sometimes, but you can only install a playset on a slope without leveling the ground if the playset is a custom playset or a special model meant to be installed on a slope. Otherwise you will need to level the ground beneath the playset in order to install it.
How high should swing be off ground?
Consider the height of the swing's rider when fixing the height off the ground. For preschool-age children, the seat should be at least 12 inches from the ground and, for school-aged kids, at least 16 inches. For younger kids who need help getting in and out, keep the swing 24 inches off the ground.
What is the safety zone for a swing set?
Swings- A use zone equal to 4 times the height of the top rail is needed in front of and behind swings to ensure a safe and compliant swing set. As a general rule, swings should be located toward a corner, side, or edge of the play space.
Does playset need to be perfectly level?
A playset that is not level could tip over while children are playing on it. Depending on the playset itself, it could blow over in a strong storm or lift up from the movement of the swings or other vigorous play. A tipping playset can cause serious injury to the children playing on or near it.
How do you install playset on uneven ground?
To level the ground for a swing set, you can dig the sod to an even level, add material like rubber mulch in an enclosed surface, or add cement blocks to level just the supports of the swing set. The longest lasting option is leveling the sod and adding a sturdy mulch within the confines of a structured enclosure.
How do you level a slope for a playset?
0:539:13How to Level a Yard for Playset Installation - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo kind of slopes away. So I started a clearing away the grass a little bit and then digging. AMoreSo kind of slopes away. So I started a clearing away the grass a little bit and then digging. A actually first I staked out. This is going to be 8 foot by 8 foot and 8 foot by 8 foot square.
How do you build a playset on a hill?
2:065:19How to Build a Playset on a Sloped Yard - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipLevel the play structure by placing bricks or cinder blocks under the sets of legs that are on theMoreLevel the play structure by placing bricks or cinder blocks under the sets of legs that are on the downhill. Side of the slope. The main beam must be level in all directions.
What do you put under a backyard playset?
What to Put Under Your Swing SetWood playground mulch or engineered wood fiber (EWF)Rubber playground mulch.Pea gravel.Sand.
Do you need to anchor a playset?
Safety. Safety is the number one reason for anchoring a playset to the ground. If the playset is not anchored, vigorous play from your children or even just swinging high on the swings can cause the playset to tip. If the playset tips over, it will certainly injure anyone playing on or near the playset.
Why do you need level ground for Adventure World?
Level Ground An Adventure World playset requires level ground in order to be sturdy and safe for your children. The base of the playset tower requires the most even ground in order to be stable. If your yard is uneven, that doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy an exciting Adventure World playset, it just means you may need some minor excavating work — ...
Can you install a swing set in a yard that doesn't fit?
In fact, installing a set that doesn’t fit your yard space can actually be a safety hazard to the children using the swing set or playset. That’s why working with a knowledgeable playset dealer and ensuring your yard meets the requirements are so crucial.
How much ground do you need to level a playset?
If you are hiring someone to install your playset, you may not need to 100% level the ground. Some installers only require that the ground be level within 3 inches, but you should check with your installer to see just how level you need to make the ground.
How far should a playset be from a fence?
In addition, it is recommended that playsets have 6 feet of open area around them on all sides. This means putting a playset 3 feet from a fence or tree is not the best idea.
How to get dirt out of a play area?
Shovel the dirt from the higher parts of the play area and move it to the lower parts of the play area. Alternatively, you could remove the dirt from the higher parts and discard it.
How much space do swings need?
That is how much space the swings will need in the front and the back. This means if the swing beam is 6 feet high, you will need 12 feet of space in front of the swing and 12 feet behind the swing.
Why do you need to cover the ground for a playset?
For safety reasons, it is recommended that the ground also be covered in a material that helps prevent serious injuries from falls. Continue reading for all the details on how to prepare the ground for your playset and how to make it look nice too!
Can you cut sod around a playset?
In addition, trimming the grass around a playset can get old quick. You can remove the sod in the play area with a spade shovel, but a border shovel will serve you better around the edges by providing a straight line. A sod cutter will do the job in much less time and with much less effort.
Can kids sit on a playset?
No matter the age of your children, you will want to be able to sit on your deck or glance out a window and see that they are alright. Choose a location that is visible from your home so that playing on the playset is never an inconvenience.
How far should a playset be from the ground?
Your Backyard Adventures dealer will help you establish a safe perimeter around your play set – usually extending 3 to 6 feet in all directions.
What is the best ground cover for a playground?
Rubber tiling – Rubber tiles are available in a variety of different colors and varying thickness. This popular playground surface is a great option giving you one of the safest options for ground cover. They are slip resistant and easy to maintain. Sand – Sand is an inexpensive option for playground ground cover.
Do dealers sell ground cover?
Some dealers sell ground cover materials directly; others will partner with a local vendor on your behalf. If your dealer does not offer ground cover options, local hardware stores and online retailers offer some great options. Aside from natural grass, the most common ground covers include:
Do you need a perimeter border for a ground cover?
Here are few helpful hints to keep in mind when considering your ground cover choices: Most ground covers will require a perimeter border to prevent the material from spreading out beyond the area of your play set. Plus, lawn mowing is much easier with an even border!
Is pea gravel good for playgrounds?
Pea gravel can limit weed growth but is not the softest to land on for playground falls. Pea gravel also has a tendency to get hot in the summer, and is therefore not something we recommend. Synthetic turf – Synthetic turf is an extremely low maintenance option for your backyard ground cover.
How far down should I level a swing set?
Now that you have found the lowest part of the ground that you will be leveling for your swing set, you will want to dig 2-3 inches below the surface. This will help you to provide an even base and begin to section off areas that will be leveled.
How do I level a swing set?
Leveling the ground for a swing set can be done in three main ways: Digging the sod to an even level. Adding material like rubber mulch to an enclosed surface. Or adding cement blocks to level out just the supports of the swing set.
What does it mean to remove dirt from a swing set?
In short, this means that you will be removing excess dirt that causes your yard to be uneven (and would otherwise cause your swing set to sit at an unbalanced angle). Taking on this task should not be done lightly, as it is the most labor-intensive option.
What shovel do I use for a swing set?
Unless you are using a sod cutter to remove the dirt and level the ground for your swing set, then you will want to use a flathead shovel. You can use an alternative option if you prefer, but a flathead shovel is often preferred for this task for the generally even digs that you will be able to accomplish.
Is leveling the ground for a swing set easy?
As mentioned, leveling the ground for a swing set is no easy feat. Fortunately, it is often very labor-intensive, but it is not too difficult to map out. Additionally, the concept of leveling the ground does not take too much brain power.
Why do We Need to Level Ground for the Swing Set?
A quick answer would be that you can’t put up a swing set on uneven ground. The area where the swing set will go should be level and flat.
What are the Options for Leveling the Ground?
There are a few ways to level out the ground for your swing set – some are better than others. We have listed the best methods of leveling ground for a swing set, and we will explain each method for your convenience.
How to Level Ground for a Swing Set if the Yard is Sloped?
If your yard slopes down toward one side, you will have to make sure that the ground slopes away from the swing set, not towards it. In other words, you need to create a small hill for the swing set to sit on.
Final Thoughts!
Even though installing a swing set may seem complicated, it is simple enough for one person to complete without too much effort. By using these methods for leveling the ground, you can have a beautiful landscape surrounding your new swing set.
How many feet clear on a playground?
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, you must have at least six (6) feet clear on either side of a playground structure – including swing sets. This area might need to be bigger depending on your swings. The area directly in front of and behind the swing should be twice as long as the swings’ height.
How deep should a swing set be?
For example, say you’re installing a swing set that is 8 feet high. You will need to have a deeper play area, because the height of the equipment may make for worse falls. So you decide to go with a 12-inch depth for the play area to give your kids the maximum amount of fall protection.
How to make sure your backyard is big enough for a swing set?
To make sure your backyard is large enough to fit a swing set, you should take measurements first. Here are some of the guidelines that you need to keep in mind as you’re considering a swing set. You have to have enough space around the swingset.
What is the best way to make a swing set colorful?
Rubber Mats. A rubber mat is a safe, durable option that can make your swing set colorful. However, it may need professional installation. Depending on the size of the playset, these rubber options may not work. That’s because they need to be thicker, which can lead to astronomical costs for installation. Pour Rubber.
Can you buy a swing set first?
You could potentially purchase a swing set first and then consider where you’re going to put it. However, this can lead to quite a few problems later on. The last thing you want is to spend hundreds of dollars on a swing set, only to find that it won’t fit when you begin leveling your yard.
Can you put a swing set under a tree?
You need to make sure that the area above your swing set is completely clear of anything that could prove hazardous. Don’t put the swing set directly below a roof or porch overhang. Avoid putting it directly under a tree to avoid potential injury from branches and limbs.
Can you put a swing set in the backyard?
If you’ve ever put up a swing set in your backyard, you know that it’s not easy. As much as we’d like to be able to put it together and set it in the grass outside, this is the worst possible thing you can do. Improper installation can put your child at risk for injury.
How many blocks do you need to level a swing set?
All you need to to is make sure the right amount of blocks are under each portion of the swing set you need leveled. One part may take 1 or 2 blocks while another may take 3 or 4. On top of that, you can anchor the swing set to the blocks with a little additional hardware.
How many feet around swing set for sloping yard?
How to Choose a Swing Set for Sloped Yard. Here are a few tips on how to choose a swing set to fit your sloping yard: Space - since you need at least 6 feet around the swing set for safety and comfort, make sure your yard is big enough.
Why do kids like swing sets?
Swing Sets can provide hours of fun for both children and adults. Children can build their confidence, improve their balance and just enjoy the fresh air. While adults can sit on a swing seat and reminisce about when they were growing up. Now you want to pass on those same childhood memories to your children.
Can you put a swing set on the ground?
Placing your child’s swing set directly on the ground is not a good idea. Especially if the swing set is made of wood. The wet ground can start the rotting process and give termites and other wood eating bugs an easy way to get to the wood. One way to solve this dilemma is to use good concrete blocks.
Can you put concrete blocks on a swing set?
Of course, the answer is yes you can. It will just take a little extra work to level the ground and it may cost you a few dollars to put in concrete footings or blocks. How much extra work you put in and how much extra money you spend will depend on the size, the simplicity or complexity of your swing set.
Select a Location for the Swing Set
Kids run around, climb on and jump on and off a swing set, so the biggest consideration in installing a swing set is location. A flat area with plenty of run-around room is ideal. You’ll also want to think about visibility.
Swing Set Size and Design
When it comes to swing set features, the sky is the limit, but even modest swing sets provide kids with hours of fun. Figure out the activities your child enjoys to determine what types of features and add-ons to choose. Remember that space considerations can also limit the size and features of your swing set.
How to Prep Your Yard for a Swing Set
Once you’ve decided where you’ll install your swing set, you’ll want to prep the space for installation. This includes:
How to Level Ground for Swing Set
Any backyard playground DIY project should have a level base to provide a safe area for your children to play. Swing set anchors are designed to keep the unit in place but if there is any slope, you'll need to level the yard to prevent the playground equipment from tipping over.
Playground Surface Options
After installing a swing set and anchors, you will need to install a shock-absorbing surface to cushion children at play. Protective material should be at least 9-inches to 12-inches deep, depending on the playset deck height.
Swing Set Anchors
The last step of installing a swing set requires anchoring it in place.
Test Your Swing Set
Once your swing set is complete, be sure to test it out for safety. Pull or push down on the various swings, slides and anchors to make sure everything is secure. After that, it's ready for play!
