Installing Outdoor Playsets & Swing Sets: Safety, Ground Preparation

Outdoor playsets & swing sets are a popular choice for Australian backyards and give kids a great reason to spend more time outside (& get away from their screens!). While playsets are often designed for home assembly, installation can be more involved than people expect. Depending on the size / type of playset and your skill level it can be worth hiring a professional to ensure safety and longevity.

Before you make a purchase, consider where you’ll install it, what you’ll use for a soft fall  surface underneath and whether you have the time and skills to install it yourself or to engage a professional.

Choosing the Right Spot in Your Backyard

Start by choosing the best spot in your backyard to install your outdoor play equipment. A flat, well-drained area makes installation much easier and helps keep the structure stable over time. Sloping ground can cause problems unless it is levelled properly (it might still be possible to install on a slight slope but it’s best to get the advice of a professional first).

Leave enough space around the playset for safe use. Swings and slides need clear areas around them, with no fences, walls or hard surfaces nearby. Sun exposure is another important factor to consider, as equipment can heat up quickly in summer. Installing near shade or planning for a shade sail can make the area more comfortable to use (some people also install a shade sail above play equipment).

Access is also worth considering. Playsets are often delivered in multiple boxes, so having a clear path to the install area can save a lot of effort on the day.

Ground Preparation Matters

It’s important to get the ground preparation right for both safety and practical reasons.

Placing a playset directly on grass or soil can cause problems over time as the ground settles or shifts after rain. This can lead to the structure leaning or becoming uneven.

It’s also important to ensure that the area under the playset has a soft-fall surface. Grass is usually not recommended as the earth can become compacted. Natural materials such as pea gravel, sand, mulch and synthetic options such as rubber matting or fill are better alternatives.  

Remember that the fall zone will extend beyond the edge of the playset. The area required for the fall zone will depend on the type of play equipment. For example active play equipment such as a swing will require a larger fall zone than an elevated cubby house. The manufacturers assembly manual should provide further guidance.

Anchoring the Playset Correctly  

Anchoring a playset properly is essential. Most outdoor play equipment is designed to be fixed into the ground and should never be left freestanding.

Depending on the design, this may involve ground stakes, concrete-set anchors or bolt-down brackets. Using the wrong fixings or skipping anchoring altogether can increase the risk of movement or tipping during active play. Anchors should be supplied with the swing set but if not you can purchase ground anchors from most hardware stores.

It is also important to use the correct hardware and install as indicated in the assembly manual. Over-tightening bolts or substituting screws can weaken timber and joints instead of strengthening them.

Taking Your Time with Assembly

Assembly often takes longer than expected, especially for larger or elevated playsets. Taking your time reduces the chance of mistakes.

Before starting, lay out all parts and check them against the manual. Read through the instructions fully and follow the recommended order. Many components rely on earlier steps being done correctly.

It’s helpful to have two people during assembly so someone can hold larger parts while the other person uses an electric screwdriver or drill to attach screws and hardware.

When to Hire a Tradie

Most backyard playsets are suitable for DIY installation, but there are situations where hiring a tradie makes sense.

Professional help is a good idea if your chosen spot needs levelling or concrete work before it can be installed, the playset is large or elevated, anchoring requires structural fixings, or you are unsure about installation requirements. Also if you are not handy at all and have no experience with Ikea flatpacks hiring a professional will save you many hours and a lot of frustration.

A tradie can prepare the site properly, install anchors correctly and make sure everything is level and secure. This can help avoid future issues and provide peace of mind.

Ongoing Checks After Installation

Once installed, outdoor playsets still need occasional checks as weather, ground movement and regular use can all loosen fixings over time.

Check bolts, anchors and the surrounding ground periodically, especially after heavy rain or strong winds. Fixing small issues early helps keep the playset safe and in good condition.

If you have a wooden swing set it is recommended to give it a light sand and re-stain paint every 12-18 months to extend its lifespan and protect the wood.

Summary

Getting an outdoor playset or swing set for your backyard is a wise investment however it’s important to do your research before you start installing it. Spending some time considering site prep, fall zones, anchoring and assembly before you start will make a big difference in the long run.