We are looking to buy an swing set and need some info.?

Question

My husband and I want to buy our kids a swing set this year for their birthdays but are not sure as to what type to buy. I want a wooden one and my husband wants a metal one. I need some feedback from you guys as to the pros and cons of each type of swing set and why or why not you like the type of swing set you talk about. Also if you have any sites that have reviews on swing sets. thanks.

Answer 1

The major pro to metal sets are the cost: they are significantly cheaper than the wooden ones. But, the wooden ones can last much longer, are sturdier, and often offer more options as far as play accessories go. One thing to watch out for when shopping for wood sets - a lot of them are sold WITHOUT the lumber you need to put them together. I realized that a few months ago, as we are also in the market for a swing set. It amazes me that they actually sell them without the lumber, it seems completely ridiculous. Also, look for treated wood, so the maintenance isn't a big worry. Anyway, I ended up deciding on one from homedepot.com. You can read reviews on several different ones on amazon.com. Shop around for the best price, some of the more well known brands have ridiculously high prices. Here are some sites to check out:

http://www.wise4living.com/kidfeature/swing.htm
http://www.componentplaygrounds.com/metal-vs-wood-swing-sets.html
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_gw/002-9543798-9577642?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=swing+sets&Go.x=0&Go.y=0&Go=Go
http://www.swingsetsdirect.com/

Good luck, and have fun!

Answer 2

Wood is better but more expensive. Metal will rust, bend and pinch easier. Any set has to be safe. You get what you pay for with wood. The more expensive the thicker the wood and more stuff.