Building vs Buying a Swing Set
A swing set can make a wonderful addition to your backyard, getting your kids outside for years of active, imaginative play. Swing sets provide many benefits for growing bodies and minds, helping to boost physical, social, emotional and cognitive development.
So, if you’re thinking of getting a swing set for your family, you might be wondering what avenue is best for you. Is it cheaper to build or buy a playset?
Let’s discuss the pros and cons of building a swing set versus buying one, and what options may be best for you.
Tire Swings
If you’re interested in taking the path of least resistance, it’s possible to just hang up a tire swing in your yard — providing you have a suitable tree to accommodate it.
Benefits of Tire Swings
Tire swings are easy and affordable, and you might already have all the materials you need to make one. There are a number of different ways to create a tire swing, but the quickest way involves simply knotting a tire onto a hanging rope. You can also go for more complicated designs, requiring additional hardware or even a special kit.
No matter what you choose, tire swings allow you to incorporate a fun swing onto your property without investing much time, effort or money.
Drawbacks of Tire Swings
Unfortunately, tire swings are also quite limited. Although the tire itself can be oriented in several different ways, there’s no option to change out the style of seat. You’re also at the mercy of the tree suspending the rope, which could have issues with holding weight or wearing down over time.
Perhaps the most problematic aspect of a tire swing? It’s singular! Without the ability to accommodate more than one — maybe two or three if they’re small enough — person at a time, there will likely be tension among siblings and friends.
DIY Swing Sets or Kits
Is it cheaper to build your own swing set? Yes, but your savings may come at a cost. DIY swing sets or swing set kits may be less expensive, but they’re usually inferior to professionally made models in terms of quality, features and durability.
Benefits of DIY Swing Sets
If you’re on a budget — or love working with your hands — DIY swing sets or swing set kits may be appealing to you. Depending on your handyman skills, they’ll usually get the job done — providing your kids with a usable play structure.
Taking on this project yourself can yield quite a few benefits: you’ll likely save money, be in a position to make modifications or customizations yourself, and you may even bond with your children — or anybody else involved in the construction process. There’s also the ‘pride’ factor, where doing the work yourself gives you a sense of ownership and accomplishment.
Drawbacks of DIY Swing Sets
In addition to the benefits of DIY playsets, there are several drawbacks to consider. Most notably, it’s extremely difficult for amateurs or hobbyists to match the structural integrity or durability of professionally built playsets. The materials, designs, and construction techniques of companies like Rainbow Play take years or even decades to perfect.
Using inferior methods and materials can result in several safety issues — from splintering wood to flawed designs, lack of foresight and more. You’ll also have to invest a considerable amount of time and effort into building your swing set, potentially leaving you tired and worn out — and frustrated if things don’t go according to plan.
DIY playsets also tend to be relatively modest in terms of size and finish, potentially leaving something to be desired after construction is complete.
Professionally Built Swing Sets
It’s nearly impossible to beat the exceptional quality of professionally built playsets. However, these outstanding play structures do have higher upfront costs.
Benefits of Professionally Built Swing Sets
High-end swing sets are so much more than swings — they’re entire playsets! Rainbow playsets include not only swings, but platforms, canopies, ladders, slides, and dozens of exciting accessories to choose from.
Rainbow playsets are built from durable and weather-resistant cedarwood, which naturally resists rot and splintering. Cedarwood also makes for a natural-looking, aesthetically pleasing structure with great curb appeal. Each and every playset features big beam construction and commercial-grade hardware for superior safety and durability.
Customization options are nearly endless, too! Choose from a wide variety of sizes, styles and accessories to fit the needs of your family. You can even start designing your ideal playset right now in our 3D Builder Tool. Deciding what to add to your set is a whole-family event with our builder. Plus, you can add to it as your kids get older.
Then there’s the fact that there won’t be any mid-project regret that comes with being halfway done building something and realizing how much time it will take. You just let us know what you want and our builders will come and install it quickly. Your kids will be playing in no time rather than asking how much longer you have when you’re surrounded by parts and wondering why you wanted to do this in the first place.
Drawbacks of Professionally Built Swing Sets
When it comes to top-quality swing sets and play structures, there is just one main drawback: the upfront cost. While DIY options are more affordable initially, professionally built swing sets are more of an investment — lasting for a lifetime of enjoyment.
Explore Rainbow Play Systems Today
If you’re interested in exploring the best, longest-lasting playsets on the market, start exploring our Castle Swing Sets or Clubhouse Playsets right now. Or, visit a local showroom near you.