I'm on a budget but really want to set up a swingset in the yard for my 2-year-old. I've seen quite a few affordable or even free old cedar swingsets available on marketplaces. I'm reaching out to see if anyone has experience with fixing them up. What should I look for in terms of safety and quality? Any advice on how to refurbish them with paints or stains? My husband can handle the deconstruction and hauling, but I'm mainly asking about how to choose a good one and how to finish it once we have it home. Thanks for your help!
1 Answer
When checking out a used swingset, the top thing to look for is wood rot. Keep in mind that modern pressure-treated wood doesn't really last more than 10 or 15 years outside. The hardware may look a bit rusty, but they're usually built sturdy enough that it can be cleaned up and painted. I recommend using a pressure washer before you start refinishing it, then once it's dry, go for a bright, cheerful outdoor enamel paint. And pay attention to the swing hangers - the better ones are designed to go over the support beam completely, while lower quality ones have threads that can wear out over time, especially on older swingsets.
Thanks for the details, so helpful!