It is very exciting for parents and children to build a DIY playground. Children do not need to go to the park or playground, but can experience the fun of playing at home. Create a playground for your child based on his or her age, interests and physical ability. Here is a guide to building a playground to help you get started.
Common DIY play equipment
There are usually swings, slides, climbing frames, sand pools, seesaws, obstacle courses and more. If you don't know how to build a playset, you can first confirm the classic core facilities and then add creative facilities. Then you can create a playground with rich facilities.
5 steps to DIY playground
1. Early stage planning
Choosing a playground location is very important. First, use a tape measure to measure the length and width of your backyard and record the data. Observe the backyard slope, drainage, low trees, power lines, etc. Find a place that can be easily seen from home. Avoid areas with direct sunlight and build under large trees.
You can make it yourself playground, which can meet the children's play needs very well. Add the children's favorite amusement facilities. Make a budget plan based on the selected facilities. You can find suppliers online or offline. You can also use idle items at home, such as old tires and discarded wooden boards, to transform them into swings and cabins.
2. Playground planning and design
You can first place large amusement facilities such as swings and slides in an open, flat area to ensure that children have enough space to move around. Then integrate swings, climbing frames, sensory toys, etc. Plan clear and convenient passages to connect various play areas. It is convenient for children to run freely and for parents to observe their children's dynamics.
3. Get approval for your playground
Some municipalities or homeowners associations require a local building permit or other prior approval to build a playground in your backyard. There are also certain size and height restrictions for playgrounds. Sizes range from about 120 to 200 square feet. The maximum height limit is 12 feet. Be sure to do your research before you start.
4. Installing amusement equipment
First, clean the play area and make sure the ground is flat and solid. Place the equipment and leave enough room for movement, with at least 1-1.5 meters of open space around it. Avoid children colliding with obstacles while playing.
Prepare installation tools, such as measuring tape, screwdriver, hammer, electric drill, saw, etc. Concrete is usually needed for better and more stable installation. You also need to prepare shovels, buckets, mixing tools, etc. Hardware materials for the installation of amusement equipment, such as screws, nuts, metal connectors, etc.
Swing installation, if it is a homemade swing frame, the distance between the two pillars should be 5-6 feet. If it is a metal swing frame, fix the bracket to the ground with expansion bolts according to the instructions. It is more appropriate to hang the seat 1-2 feet from the ground.
Slide installation, install the slide on the bracket, ensure that the slide is tightly connected and smooth, and the angle between the slide and the ground is generally controlled at 30-45 degrees. Rubber pads or sealants can be used to deal with gaps to prevent children from being pinched.
Climbing frame installation
Frame assembly, assemble the climbing frame according to the design drawings or product instructions. During the installation process, use a level and tape measure to measure to ensure that the frame is vertical and horizontal, and the dimensions of each component are accurate.
5. Safety protection and inspection
It is necessary to lay protective mats under the amusement equipment. Rubber mats, EVA mats, etc. can be used. The thickness should not be less than 2 inches to reduce the risk of children falling. Install guardrails with a height of not less than 4 feet to prevent children from falling and getting injured.
After installation, fully check whether the connections of all parts of the amusement equipment are firm. You can shake it to test. Make sure it will not move or tip over.
Cost of DIY Playground
Building a DIY playground yourself is cheaper and more flexible than a prefabricated playground. The cost of building a playground yourself is between $700 and $1,600. Common amusement facilities can achieve the desired effect within a lower budget.
You already know how to build a playground. Bring your kids along to build your own playground. It's a fun place for the whole family.
