How Long Do Backyard Playsets Last? | AAA State of Play (2024)

FAQs

How long do backyard playsets last? ›

On average, well-maintained wooden playsets last about 20 years. However, several factors can impact the lifespan of a wooden playground set. One of the most significant is the quality of the materials used to construct it. If the wood is of poor quality, it may warp, crack, or rot easier than high-quality wood.

There is no set age when a child decides they've gotten too big for the jungle gym. In general, from the feedback we have gotten from our clients, kids as old as 16 were still enjoying these beautiful wooden swing sets.

From our experience, a well-built swing set or play set will absolutely add resale value to your home — and can even make your house a must-buy for the right person. Of course, lots more homeowners want to take their sets with them when they move.

When to Replace Playground Equipment. Playground equipment updates should be performed every 8-10 years to keep them maintained. However, many playgrounds can last well beyond 10, 15, 20 or more years. Weather, usage, and quality affect the actual lifespan of your playground.

Any wooden playset will need a layer of sealant if you want it to last through the seasons. Sealing a wooden swing set is simple and will only take a few hours.

Once a year, preferably before the first play session of the spring, we suggest applying a sealant to the wood. Your wood product is coated with a water-based stain. Sunlight will break down the coating, so we recommend applying a water repellent or stain on a yearly basis.

Yes, it is completely normal for 12-year-olds to play with toys. At this age, many children (boys or girls), regardless of gender, engage in toy play. It's a healthy part of development, with no specific age limit for outgrowing toys. Many adults continue to enjoy toys as well.

A new study from the folks at Let's Play reveals that once kids hit age 9, they stop playing as often.

As children grow and become teenagers, their relationship with toys evolves. From the age of 9, playing with toys begins to gradually decrease, and the bond with technology grows. However, it is important to note that even in adolescence, many teens continue to collect toys as a special part of their lives.

Do playsets add value to home? ›

"High quality playsets that are in good condition can definitely add resale value to a home," he says. "These can be great selling points for buyers who have kids, grandparents who have grandchildren or people who think they may have kids one day."

Wood playsets usually have the advantage over metal swing sets in terms of durability. Quality wood swing sets are made from rot-resistant wood like cedar, so they can withstand the elements.

Unlike wood sets, vinyl swing sets will never splinter, warp, or rot – giving your kids an entire childhood of playful memories! Of all models on the market, expect an Amish vinyl swing set lifespan to be the longest. With the proper care and attention, a vinyl swingset's lifetime can last 25-30 years!

How Often Should Mulch be Replenished? No matter what type of mulch you use in your lawn or garden, the timeframe to replenish it is about the same. On average, you should replace mulch every 1-2 years.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends children should have at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. The playground is the perfect place for it.

Durability. The durability of metal versus wood swing sets is highly dependent on the quality of your frame. On average, you can expect a high-quality wooden frame to last approximately 20 to 30 years. Metal swing frames made with galvanized steel tend to last about 15 years depending on weather conditions.

A pour-in-place playground surface will generally last about 10 years (depending on foot traffic) before any type of upkeep is required — no need to truck in new surface filler every spring. With proper maintenance, it can last as long as 12-15 years.