How to Choose Kids Play Equipment

The Complete Swing Set & Fort Buying Guide

Choosing the right swing set or kids fort transforms your backyard into an active play zone that promotes physical development, builds confidence, and creates lasting childhood memories. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about selecting, installing, and maintaining the perfect outdoor play equipment for your family.

Timber vs Metal: Choosing Your Material

One of the first decisions is selecting between timber and metal construction. We offer both options to suit different preferences and needs.

Timber Swing Sets & Forts

• Aesthetics: Natural appearance blends beautifully with garden landscaping
• Customization: Can be painted any color to match your style
• Feel: Warmer to touch, doesn't heat up as much in sun
• Flexibility: Easier to add custom modifications or attach accessories
• Maintenance: Requires regular painting (every 2-4 years) for protection
• Longevity: up to 10 years with proper maintenance
• Color Options: Can customise with different colour accessories
• Best for: Families who enjoy customization and don't mind maintenance

Metal (Painted) Swing Sets & Adventure Equipment

• Durability: Painted steel - can minimise weather damage, but is susceptible
• Maintenance: Lower maintenance - touch up painting is required
• Strength: Excellent strength-to-weight ratio, very stable
• Temperature: Can get hot in direct sun, may feel cold in winter
• Longevity: up to 10 years
• Color Options: Only the 1 colour available
• Best for: Families wanting low-maintenance, long-lasting equipment

Which Should You Choose?

• Choose timber if you want natural aesthetics, plan to customise colors, or prefer traditional appearance
• Choose metal if you prioritise minimal assembly and preparation
• Both materials are safe, durable, and provide excellent play value when properly maintained

Types of Swing Sets, Forts & Play Equipment

Understanding the different styles helps you choose the right outdoor play structure for your family's needs.

Classic Swing Sets

• Description: Traditional A-frame design with 2-3 swing positions
• Best for: Younger children (ages 3-8), focused swinging activity
• Space needed: 4m x 6m minimum (including clearances)
• Features: Multiple swing seats, sometimes trapeze bar
• Available in: Timber or metal construction
• Examples: Lucas Swing Set, Waratah Swing Set, Sunny Swing Set
• Price range: Most affordable option

Fort-Style Play Structures

• Description: Elevated fort platform with swings attached to the structure
• Best for: Mixed-age children (ages 4-12), comprehensive play
• Space needed: 5m x 7m minimum
• Features: Fort deck, swing positions, often includes slide and climbing access
• Popular in Australia: Fort-Style Play Structures combine adventure with active play
• Available in: Timber construction primarily
• Examples: Georgia Swing Fort, Henry Hideout, River Fort Set, Rusty Fort
• Price range: Mid-range

Adventure Playsets & Play Forts

• Description: Comprehensive play structures with multiple activity zones
• Best for: Active families, multiple children, ages 5-12+
• Space needed: 6m x 8m+ minimum
• Features: Monkey bars, climbing walls, multiple swings, slides, fort platforms
• Fort elements: These playsets combine the appeal of a fort with comprehensive play features
• Available in: Timber or metal construction
• Examples: Adventure Playground, Matilda Play Set, Poppie Playset
• Price range: Premium investment

Monkey Bars & Climbing Frames

• Description: Dedicated climbing and upper body strength equipment
• Best for: Older children (ages 6-12), fitness-focused play
• Space needed: 3m x 5m minimum
• Features: Overhead bars, climbing configurations, sometimes integrated with swings
• Available in: Metal and Timber construction primarily
• Examples: Standalone Monkey Bars
• Price range: Varies by complexity

Choosing the Right Size Swing Set

Size selection depends on available space, number of children, and activity preferences.

Compact Swing Sets (Under 3m wide)

• Yard space needed: Minimum 7m x 10m including clearances
• Best for: 1-2 children, smaller backyards, younger ages (3-7)
• Typical features: 2 swing positions, basic frame
• Swing clearance: 2m front and back, 1.5m sides
• Play capacity: 2 children simultaneously

Medium Swing Sets (3m-4m wide)

• Yard space needed: Minimum 8m x 11m including clearances
• Best for: 2-3 children, average backyards, ages 4-10
• Typical features: 2-3 swing positions, may include trapeze or additional features
• Swing clearance: 2m all directions from swing arc
• Play capacity: 3 children simultaneously

Large Fort & Adventure Sets (4m+ wide)

• Yard space needed: Minimum 10m x 12m+ including clearances
• Best for: Multiple children, large yards, ages 5-12+
• Typical features: Multiple swings, fort areas, slides, climbing features
• Swing clearance: 2m+ all directions, additional zones for each feature
• Play capacity: 4-6+ children in different activity zones

Essential Swing Set Features

Swing Seat Types

• Standard Swing Seats: Plastic seats, safest for most ages
• Infant Seats: Enclosed seats for toddlers, provides back and side support, ages 1-4
• Disc Swings: Platform-style for standing or sitting, encourages balance and core strength
• Trapeze Bars: Upper body strength development, suitable for ages 6+
• Rope Swings: Advanced option requiring grip strength, ages 7+

Frame Construction

• A-Frame Design: Traditional triangular top beam provides strength and stability
• Ground Anchoring: Posts should be secured to prevent movement
• Connection Quality: Heavy-duty bolts and brackets at all joints

Additional Features to Consider

• Slides: Add variety to play, typically wave slides in various colors
• Climbing Walls: Physical challenge and skill development
• Monkey Bars: Upper body strength and coordination
• Fort Platforms: Elevated play space, often 1.2m-1.5m high
• Sandpit Bases: Some designs incorporate sandpit under fort area
• Shade Options: Consider adding shade cloth or positioning near natural shade

Safety Guidelines for Swing Sets

Safety is paramount when choosing and using kids swing sets.

Space & Clearance Requirements

• Swing Arc Clearance: Minimum 2m in front and behind swing at full extension
• Side Clearance: 1.5m-2m on each side of swing set frame
• Between Swings: Minimum 600mm spacing between adjacent swings
• Fall Zones: All clearance areas should have impact-absorbing surface
• Overhead Clearance: No tree branches, power lines, or structures within 3m overhead
• Ground Surface: Level, well-draining area with soft landing surface

Surface Options for Under Swing Sets

• Mulch/Wood Chips: Cost-effective, natural appearance, needs replenishing, 300mm depth minimum
• Rubber Mulch: Longer-lasting than wood, good impact absorption, more expensive, 250mm depth
• Sand: Soft landing, children enjoy playing in it, can become compacted, 300mm depth minimum
• Artificial Grass: Low maintenance, clean appearance, moderate impact absorption, professional installation
• Safety Mats: Excellent impact protection, expensive, very low maintenance
• Not Recommended: Concrete, pavers, hard-packed dirt, or thin grass over hard ground

Age-Appropriate Use

• Ages 3-5: Standard swings with adult supervision, lower platforms, simple features
• Ages 6-9: All swing types, moderate height platforms (1.2m), climbing features
• Ages 10+: Advanced features like monkey bars and higher forts (1.5m+)
• Weight Limits: Check manufacturer specifications, typically 50-70kg per swing
• Capacity Limits: One child per swing, don't exceed total capacity for fort areas

Supervision & Usage Rules

• Always Supervise: Adult supervision required at all times for children under 10
• One Per Swing: Never allow multiple children on one swing
• Sit and Swing: No standing, kneeling, or lying on swings
• Clear Before Dismount: Teach children to check area is clear before jumping off
• Controlled Swinging: No twisting chains, jumping off while swinging, or pushing empty swings
• Weather Conditions: Avoid use during rain (slippery), thunderstorms, or high winds
• Proper Footwear: Closed-toe shoes recommended, no loose clothing that could catch

Swing Set Installation

Site Preparation

1. Select Location: Level area with good drainage, away from fences and obstacles
2. Mark Layout: Use string and stakes to mark exact footprint plus clearance zones
3. Check Level: Site must be level within 50mm across entire area
4. Clear Vegetation: Remove grass, weeds, and debris from installation area
5. Plan Drainage: Ensure water won't pool under or around swing set

Foundation Options

Ground Anchors

• Metal anchors secured into ground
• Easier installation than concrete
• Can be removed if relocating swing set
• Suitable for most swing set types
• May need reinforcement in sandy soils

Surface Mount (Least Recommended)

• Posts sit on surface, held by weight and base design
• Only suitable for very small, lightweight swings
• Risk of tipping with vigorous use
• Not recommended for most family swing sets

Assembly Process

• Read Instructions Completely: Understand entire process before starting
• Organise Components: Lay out all pieces and hardware
• Work on Level Surface: Assemble major components near final location
• Don't Fully Tighten: Leave hardware slightly loose until structure is squared
• Check Level Frequently: Use spirit level on all major components
• Two Adults Minimum: Required for lifting and positioning large sections
• Final Tightening: Once structure is level and square, fully tighten all hardware
• Safety Inspection: Test stability, check all connections, verify clearances

Swing Set Maintenance

Monthly Inspections

• Check all bolts and hardware for tightness
• Inspect swing chains/ropes for wear or rust
• Examine swing seats for cracks or damage
• Look for splinters or rough areas on timber
• Verify ground anchors remain secure
• Check that impact surface material hasn't compacted or thinned

Seasonal Maintenance

• Clean timber with mild detergent and water
• Check for any mould growth and clean if needed
• Touch up paint on worn or chipped areas
• Lubricate moving parts (swing hangers) with appropriate lubricant
• Replenish mulch or impact surface material
• Inspect structural integrity of all joints
• Check fort platforms and climbing features for stability

Annual Deep Maintenance

• Comprehensive structural inspection
• Consider repainting if needed (typically every 2-3 years)
• Replace any worn swing seats, chains, or ropes
• Check and reinforce ground anchors
• Inspect and seal any gaps or cracks in timber
• Verify all safety clearances remain adequate (vegetation growth, new structures)
• Test weight capacity by having adult carefully use swings

Painting & Protection

For Timber Swing Sets & Forts:

• Apply quality primer (Dulux 1 Step Prep recommended)
• Use exterior-grade paint (Dulux Weathershield)
• Minimum 2 coats of topcoat
• Paint all surfaces including undersides and end grain
• Repaint every 2-4 years depending on conditions
• Touch up chips and scratches promptly

For Metal Swing Sets:

• Painted finish requires some maintenance
• Check annually for any coating damage or rust spots
• Touch up small areas with rust-inhibiting paint if needed
• Clean with mild soap and water to maintain appearance
• Inspect joints and welds for any corrosion

See our comprehensive Painting & Maintenance Guide for detailed instructions on timber maintenance.

Pairing Swing Sets with Cubby Houses

Many families create comprehensive play spaces by combining swing sets with cubby houses. This combination offers both active physical play and imaginative role-play, engaging different aspects of development.

Layout Planning for Combinations

• Maintain 2m clearance between swing arc and any cubby structure
• Position so children can move naturally between structures
• Consider sightlines for supervision of both areas
• Ensure each structure has dedicated safety zones that don't overlap
• Place in relation to sun exposure (cubby shade, swing area sunshine)

Interested in adding a cubby house? Visit our Cubby House Buying Guide to explore options.

Need help deciding which to buy first? Read: Cubby House vs Swing Set: Which Should You Buy First?

Frequently Asked Questions

What age are swing sets suitable for?
Most swing sets are suitable for children aged 3-12 years. Simple swing sets suit younger children (3-7), while fort-style and adventure sets engage older children (6-12+). Always follow manufacturer age recommendations and supervise younger children.

How much space do I need for a swing set?
Minimum space depends on swing set size. A basic 2-swing set needs approximately 7m x 10m including clearances. Fort-style sets need 8m x 11m+. Adventure playsets require 10m x 12m+. Always account for 2m clearance around all swing arcs.

What's the best surface under a swing set?
Loose-fill materials like mulch (300mm depth) or rubber mulch (250mm) provide good impact absorption at reasonable cost. Sand works well and children enjoy it. Safety mats offer best protection but cost more. Never use concrete, pavers, or hard-packed dirt.

How do I anchor a swing set?
Ground anchors are easier to install and allow relocation. Surface mounting is only suitable for very small, lightweight swings. Always anchor swing sets - tip-over is a serious hazard.

Do swing sets need to be painted?
Timber swing sets: Yes, timber requires proper painting just like cubby houses. Apply quality primer and exterior paint before or during assembly. Without painting, timber will weather and deteriorate faster. Expect to repaint every 2-4 years.
Metal swing sets: No, our metal swing sets come with painted finish that doesn't require painting. Just check annually for any damage to the coating.

Can adults use swing sets?
Most swing sets are designed for children and have weight limits of 50-70kg per swing. Adults can use them for testing stability during inspections but shouldn't use regularly as it exceeds design specifications and accelerates wear.

What's the difference between timber and metal swing sets?
Timber offers natural aesthetics, can be painted any color, and feels warmer but requires regular maintenance (painting every 2-4 years). Metal (painted steel) requires less maintenance, won't rot, and is very durable but can heat up in sun. Both are safe and long-lasting options - choose based on your maintenance preferences and aesthetic goals.

How far should swings be from fences?
Maintain minimum 2m clearance between the full swing arc and any fence, wall, or structure. This prevents injuries from swinging into obstacles and stops children from using fences as climbing aids to reach swing set roof areas.

What's better: 2 swings or 3 swings?
Depends on number of children and space. Two swings reduce wait times for 1-2 children and need less space. Three swings better for families with 3+ children or frequent playdates but require wider frames and more yard space.

How long does assembly take?
Simple swing sets: 3-4 hours. Fort-style sets: 5-7 hours. Large adventure playsets: 8-12+ hours. Two adults recommended throughout. Pre-painting components adds time but makes painting much easier and more thorough.

Can I add features to a swing set later?
Some features can be added after initial installation (additional swings, trapeze bars, climbing rocks) if frame supports it. Major additions like slides or fort platforms usually require specific frame designs. Consider future additions when selecting initial swing set.

Are metal or timber swing sets better?
Both have advantages. Timber offers natural appearance, customisability, and can be painted any color. It requires more maintenance but integrates beautifully with backyard landscaping. Metal sets require less maintenance but can get hot in sun, rust over time, and have limited color options. We specialize in quality timber construction.

Why Choose Hide & Seek Kids Swing Sets

When shopping for swing sets for sale, families choose Hide & Seek Kids for several key reasons:

• Quality Timber Construction – Solid timber frames built for durability and longevity
• Safety Focus – Designs meet safety standards with proper dimensions and secure construction
• Comprehensive Range – From simple swings to adventure playsets for all ages and spaces
• Australian Designed – Created specifically for local families and backyards
• Exclusive Paint Discounts – Special Dulux pricing for our customers
• Detailed Support – Assembly manuals, maintenance guides, and customer service
• Flexible Payments – Afterpay and lay-by options available
• Nationwide Delivery – Shipping throughout the country

Note: Adult supervision is required at all times during play. Regular maintenance and safety inspections are essential. Please read all safety guidelines and installation instructions before assembly and use.