How to Protect a Wooden Swing Set

Wooden swing sets offer versatility and a natural alternative to metal or plastic swing sets. Although they are usually more expensive, they tend to last longer and add value to your home. In order to keep your swing set strong and attractive, you must perform regular maintenance on it to protect it from the elements and from falling apart. Protecting wooden swing sets is not difficult as long you know how to care for the separate parts of the swing set.

Things You'll Need

• Pressure treated wood or varnish
• Bug repellent
• Tools

Instructions

1. Buy pressure treated lumber for your swing set to give it the best chance against the elements. If you do not get pressure treated lumber, apply varnish to the wood, following the directions on the package for application instructions. These chemical seals will help keep the wood from splitting and moisture from seeping into the wood.

2. Spray the perimeter of the swing set area at the beginning of each season with bug repellent. This will prevent ants and other bugs from burrowing into the wood and weakening the structure.

3. Tighten all nuts and bolts on the swing set in the beginning of the season. Oil the metallic moving parts and check for excessive rust or cracking in the swing. Replace any parts showing wear.

4. Bring plastic swings and other plastic materials inside for the winter to prevent deterioration. Once the temperature drops below 0 degrees Fahrenheit, it is unsafe to use the swing set.

References

• Swing-N-Slide: Swing Set Maintenance
• Outdoor Swing Sets: The Magic of Wooden Swing Sets