How to Build a Backyard Play Set

Planning the Play Set

• 1

  Visit an existing business that sells backyard play sets to select the style and size appropriate for both your yard size and children’s ages. List on a notepad the items included, such as monkey bars, ladders, slides and platform houses. Count the number of posts and the dimensions. Scan catalogs and websites to research an additional three or four play set models.

• 2

  Sketch an illustration of a backyard play set that is closest to the child’s interest level and physical abilities. Project how active the child will be in the future and if the play set will sustain his interest.

• 3

  Measure space in the back yard where the play set will be placed. Measure the area needed for a platform or base and extensions used for swings and ladders. Plan the maximum number of children playing on the set, and build the play set to handle the weight.

• 4

  Revise the illustration on graph paper or plain paper using a ruler. Label posts with the needed lengths and all necessary lumber, such as 2-by-4-inch boards, dowel rods, bolts and plywood. Count the number of corners needing brackets. List all parts on a paper or computer spreadsheet.

  Log on to a lumber supply website to budget the total cost for all parts. Remember that store prices will vary. Plan ahead to wait for coupons and sales on supplies. Select stores or websites to order slides, swings and additional accessories.

Constructing the Play Set

• 5

  Purchase the materials, pick them up or have them delivered. Lay them down in an approximate position for the structure. Dig holes for the posts two- to three-feet deep depending on the height you are planning for the play set. Drill holes and reinforce with bolts near the base.

• 6

  Connect all of the pieces using mostly screws and bolts. Fasten screws about halfway until final determination is made that everything is correctly fitted and in place. Then, tighten all screws securely.

• 7

  Check for loose screws, bolts and loose wood every six to nine months. Paint and varnish as needed. Invite the children to give their input on colors and designs. To protect against falls on hard ground, you should cover "the area under and around the swing set with 6 to 12 inches of wood chips, sand or mulch," advises Good Housekeeping magazine.