How to Buy a Backyard Play Structure
Shopping for a play structure? It's a jungle out there. A well-chosen set can provide years of stimulating fun for your monkeys, but the price range and variety of choices can make anyone's head spin. And with over 200,000 playground injuries treated in the hospital each year, safety is a top concern.
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Evaluate how much space you have before you shop. You'll need a level area at least 6 feet (1.8 m) away from your house or garage and clear of hazards such as trees, electrical wires, fences and standing water.
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Make safety your first priority. Inspect the structure: Climb on it, shake it, stomp on it and look closely at the construction. Browse KidSource Online (kidsource.com/CPSC/playground .safety.news.html) and other such sites for more information.
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Reduce the risk of serious injury with an appropriate surface material. Dirt and grass don't offer enough padding for falls; instead look into pea gravel, wood chips or rubberized mats. Keep in mind that the "fall zone" extends 6 feet (1.8 m) beyond the structure itself.
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Set your budget while keeping in mind that you get what you pay for. First consideration is materials, and while you can find a metal play set for a few hundred dollars, don't expect it to last-- either your child will outgrow it or it will fall apart.
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Step up to a wooden set if you're willing to invest in long-lasting durability. Make sure the wood used is not prone to splintering or treated with toxic chemicals. The well-built Cedarworks sets (cedarworks.com, $1,000 to $5,000) are made of rot-resistant, splinter-free Northern White cedar. Accessories (curly slides, tire swings and climbing walls) will add to the ticket price.
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Climb all over maintenance-free, sturdy plastic play structures. Relatively inexpensive ($60 to $500), they're great for toddler adventures. Check out LittleTikes.com or visit ToysRUs.
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Choose a set your children can grow into. Adjustable-height swings, for example, offer a few extra years' use. Pay attention to the different climbing options since kids spend a significant amount of playtime scrambling up the structure.
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Keep an eye out for hidden costs, such as delivery and setup charges. Ask about payment plans for more expensive sets.
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Read the fine print: Ask how long and how difficult it is to assemble the set. What tools are required? Some sets are so hard to put together that it's no fun for anyone. Line up skilled and willing hands to help you set up your kid's new dream-come-true.
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