How to Level Ground for a Swingset
A backyard swingset can provide hours of family fun and healthy outdoor play, but it is important to follow safety guidelines when installing any home playground equipment. A safe, sturdy swingset begins with choosing and preparing a suitable site, including leveling the ground. While swingsets do not need to be placed on perfectly level ground, significantly uneven terrain can increase the risk of trips and falls, as well as creating drainage issues that can lead to standing water and slippery, muddy footing. Fortunately, it is fairly easy to level ground for a swingset using common tools and inexpensive supplies. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Wood or plastic stakes
- String
- Level
- Long board (e.g., 8-foot 2x4)
- Shovel
- Tape measure
- Yard marking paint (optional)
Instructions
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Installing a Swingset
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1
Measure the site. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recommends a "use zone" of 6 feet around all sides of playground equipment. To the front and back of swings, the use zone should extend to twice the distance between the ground and the swing hangers. Based on these guidelines, measure the site for your swingset, including the use zone.
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2
Place the stakes. At each corner of your site, place a wood or plastic stake.
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3
Run lines. Use strong, low-stretch string to connect the stakes and mark the perimeter of your site.
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4
Check level. Use a level to identify high and low spots within the site. If necessary, place the level atop a long, flat piece of lumber, such as an 8-foot 2x4, to help you evaluate longer spans of terrain. If desired, use yard marking spray paint or additional stakes to mark key areas.
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5
Dig the site. Because falls from playground equipment are common, the CPSC recommends placing 6 to 12 inches of a protective, loose-fill substance, such as mulch, gravel or synthetic material, underneath. With this in mind, use a shovel to dig to the desired depth throughout the site. Keep in mind that low spots may already be deep enough (or nearly so).
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6
Recheck level. As you work, periodically use a level to check your progress and avoid unnecessary effort. Once the ground is roughly level at the proper depth, you are ready to install your swingset.
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