Rainbow Play Systems Shares 5 Tips for Purchasing the Perfect Swing sets

Leading playset manufacturer advises parents on what to look for in a swing set

We see a lot of first-time Rainbow customers who are shopping for their second or third swing set because their kids have outgrown them

Choose a modular play structure as they're designed to expand. This concept is usually more economical than buying multiple swing sets.

A good rule of thumb is to plan for an additional 6 feet of extra space in all directions around the structure

This will give your kids the necessary room to swing and jump freely, without landing on the azaleas.

Ask the sales person what species of lumber they use. If it's pine, it's important to know it may be pre-treated with chemicals that could be dangerous

Instead, look for lumber such as cedar and redwood, both are highly durable and do not require treatment to maintain their integrity.

Brookings, S.D. (PRWEB) April 4, 2008 -- In just a few short months, children everywhere will be out of school and ready for some backyard fun. With spring here and summer quickly approaching, parents all over the country are making decisions to purchase swing sets. However, deciding what set is right for your family and considering all the safety elements can be overwhelming. Rainbow Play Systems, Inc. is committed to making that decision easier by providing tips to prepare for swing set season.

Pick a set that can grow with your child.
According to Todd Hemme, marketing manager of Rainbow Play Systems, many parents go into the swing set buying experience expecting a once-in-a-lifetime purchase only to realize that's not always the case.

"We see a lot of first-time Rainbow customers who are shopping for their second or third swing set because their kids have outgrown them," says Hemme. "Choose a modular play structure as they're designed to expand. This concept is usually more economical than buying multiple swing sets."

Walk around your backyard.
Many essential questions can be answered by taking into consideration how much space you have, where the play structure should go, how the play structure will fit in with the surroundings and whether special adjustments will be needed.    

1. Pick out a spot in the backyard that provides ample room away from existing vegetation, fences, landscape rocks and other objects. "A good rule of thumb is to plan for an additional 6 feet of extra space in all directions around the structure," says Hemme. "This will give your kids the necessary room to swing and jump freely, without landing on the azaleas."

2. If space is at a premium, consider looking into wooden swing sets that are built for cramped yards -- Rainbow builds a Spacesaver Series of playsets that is more compact but still offers all the play value.

3. Consider the ground itself. Be aware of any soft spots where rainwater may collect - heavy swing sets hate soggy terrain. Likewise, if your backyard is uneven, you will need to choose a model that can accommodate your yard's slope. A good play structure manufacturer should be able to adjust for unlevel yards.

Know your materials.
Before buying, there are several questions that should be asked about the strength and quality of the materials used.

"Ask the sales person what species of lumber they use. If it's pine, it's important to know it may be pre-treated with chemicals that could be dangerous," says Hemme. "Instead, look for lumber such as cedar and redwood, both are highly durable and do not require treatment to maintain their integrity."

In addition, parents should ensure all hardware is recessed and capped, that corners and edges are rounded and that the swing set's deck height does not exceed the width of its base.

Try before you buy.
Often, what you see on the computer screen or in a catalog will look different in person. Visit swing set showrooms that have a variety of models on display where you can check out the sizes of the swing sets and inspect its features. The sales staff should be able to help you identify an appropriate model for your needs. Climb on the swing sets to get a feel for their roominess and structural integrity and apply the "grab and shake" test to rule out wobbly designs.

Enjoy the experience.
Although there are many things to consider when purchasing a woorden swing set, it's an exciting time for parents and children. Ultimately, a good swing set investment is measured by the joy and fun it brings to your child, helping to develop lifelong skills and create priceless memories throughout their growing years.

In its 20 plus years of building childhood memories, Rainbow has sold over 500,000 play systems worldwide, always maintaining their tradition of creating the finest residential play systems manufactured using premium redwood and western red cedar. For more information and to find a Rainbow Showroom near you, please visit Rainbow Play Systems Swing Sets online.

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