How to Install a Wooden Playset

A backyard playset can be installed easily to expand your outdoor living space for the kids.

Backyard wooden playsets are the stuff of long summer afternoons and happy kids. Adding one to your backyard doesn't have to mean calling a contractor, as home supply stores sell ready-made kits with detailed instructions. Several variations and additions can be made to the wooden playset, but a basic central construction allows for your choice of add-ons. With a few tools and some pre-planning, your backyard will be your kids' paradise.

Things You'll Need

• Hardware kit for playset
• Ratchet set
• Drill
• Screwdriver
• Stainless steel screws
• Galvanized screws
• Hammer
• 1 by 2 treated wood stakes

Instructions

1. Choose the components of the wooden playset according to the space you have available, the ages of your children and their needs. A basic construction generally consists of a central two-story play house, a swing extension and a slide. Additions such as rock walls, sand boxes, extended houses and canopies can be added. Be sure to purchase the recommended hardware in the correct amounts for the components you've chosen.

2. Lay out the lumber for the central frame of the playhouse. Bolt together the structure's main posts, starting with the supports. Tighten the bolts with the correct size ratchet until you cannot tighten them further. Secure the supports by driving in stainless steel screws for added stability. Be sure no screw points protrude through the opposite side of the lumber, to avoid injury.

3. Install decking and any wood plank walls once the frame is together. Screw the decking and wall planks in place with galvanized screws.

4. Add the swing to the area of the frame provided for its installation. Be sure there's enough ground clearance. Install the hardware securely to the frame, and attach the swing.

5. Install any components such as a rope ladder, climbing wall or slide with the hardware provided, according to the instructions.

6. Pound wood stakes made from 1-by-2 treated lumber into the ground, fitting them tightly against the wood support beams or bottom framing. Screw these stakes to the supports and frame with galvanized screws to stabilize the frame and keep it from moving.

7. Check the structure for safety issues. Be sure there are no gaps between planks or steps, or on climbing ladders, that are between 3 1/2 and 9 inches. The gaps should be either smaller or larger than those dimensions to avoid an entrapment hazard.

8. Add a pad of wood chips below the structure if possible, for a softer area in case of falls, and to avoid muddy areas when grass is eroded by heavy use.

References

• Ron Hazelton: How to Install a Backyard Playset
• Good Housekeeping: Backyard Playset Advice