If you’re interested in buying a backyard swingset for your family, you’ve probably browsed through a lot of websites and catalogs looking for the perfect one. Maybe you’ve found that you like specific options on different playset models, but you can’t seem to find a design that brings together everything you want. The good news is many playset manufacturers allow you to customize your own playset if their standard designs don’t meet all of your needs.
Is this swingset meant to entertain children who are years apart? You’ll need activities and accessories for every age group. Are your kids crazy about slides? Add two and make sure they’re twisty! Do you want your playset to subtly blend into your backyard? Choose color options that complement your own home.
Our experts suggest taking the following steps in designing a custom playset that has all the features you’re looking for.
1. Choose Your Colors
Whether you want something simple and understated or something lively and fun, there are plenty of colors to choose from. Vinyl playset components are available in wood grain, white, or almond. Your add-ons can be designed in red, yellow, green, or blue.
2. Start with a Base
When you design your own playset, everything builds from a tower base. You’ll want to start with a base that includes enough access points to add whatever climbers or slides you choose. Base options are also available that include a built-in playhouse. If you’re designing a larger playset, you can connect two bases with a rope bridge or climbing tunnel for more room to play.
3. Choose Your Ladders & Climbers
You can add a simple ladder to access the tower base, but you can also choose from upgraded options as well. Popular choices include ramps, rock climbing walls, and cargo nets. Be sure to also include safety features such as hand railings and hand bars on your access ladders.
4. Add Some Slides & Twists
What goes up, must come down. Depending on the base you’ve chosen, you can add two or even three slides to your custom playset. Design your own playset to include a waterfall, turbo twister, or tunnel slide option.
5. Get Swinging
Extending from the base of your playset, the manufacturer will add a swing beam. Swing beam options are available from one-position up to four-position beams. You can fill your swing beam with various swings, like belt swings or infant swings, gliders, and trapeze bars. You can always upgrade your swing options as your children grow, so choose options that fit their current ages and abilities.
6. Accessories Make it Fun
Here’s the step in your playset design where you can add all the fun extras. Little explorers and spies would enjoy a functioning telescope or binoculars. Kids can take flashlight tag to a new level with a spotlight perched from a tower. You can even add water park fun to your swing set with a water cannon or water slide accessory.
7. Don’t Forget the Finishing Touches
Not only does wood mulch, rubber mulch, or playground turf finish off your backyard playground, they are also much safer than grass when it comes to cushioning falls and preventing injuries. Choose a color that compliments your play structure. Then add landscape timber to give the entire design a polished look.
