Metal vs Wood Swing Sets: Pros & Cons
What are the pros and cons of metal vs wood swing sets? And which option is best suited for your backyard playground? At American Swing, these are some of the most commonly asked questions we hear. Building a new swing set can feel like an overwhelming task, but it doesn’t need to be! Read on to discover which swing set best suits you. Or, browse our residential collection of playground equipment, below.
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Durability
The durability of metal versus wood swing sets is highly dependent on the quality of your frame. On average, you can expect a high-quality wooden frame to last approximately 20 to 30 years. Metal swing frames made with galvanized steel tend to last about 15 years depending on weather conditions. If you’re leaning toward a wooden frame, always ensure that the equipment is made with weather-resistant wood. Keep in mind that frames constructed with softwood, such as cedar, tend to deteriorate much more quickly.
Maintenance
While wooden swing sets tend to have a greater lifespan, they also come along with some hefty maintenance. When investing in a wooden frame, you’ll want to be sure that you set plenty of time aside for tasks such as staining and sealing the wood. Otherwise, you’ll find that a wooden swing set can rot quickly and become prone to other natural troubles, like wasps and termites.
Metal frames also require some maintenance to prevent rusting, but the time spent is significantly less when compared to a wooden frame. To prevent rusting on a metal swing set, you should invest in a frame made with galvanized steel. Additionally, maintenance painting with a metal primer is highly recommended.
Installation
When it comes to installation, you’ll have quite a bit of heavy lifting to do with a wooden frame. On the other hand, metal frames are typically much simpler to install. If you prefer to complete your backyard projects yourself, we highly recommend a metal frame. However, if you choose a wooden frame, you’ll likely need the help of professionals. Improper installation can result in safety hazards. Keep in mind that with every purchase you make with American Swing, directions for professional and proper installation are always included, making assembly easy as can be.
Price
When it comes to pricing, metal swing sets generally cost less than wood swing sets. On average, a quality metal swing set frame will cost significantly less when factoring in the cost of replacement parts and maintenance. If cost is important to you, then a metal swing set is a perfect choice.
Shop American Swing Today
Now that you know the pros and cons of metal vs wood swing sets, it’s time to start building the backyard playground of your dreams! At American Swing, we are proud to offer a full range of residential and commercial swing set equipment that is affordable, safe, and built to last. Whether you’re building a tire swing or a small swing set for your toddler, you’ll find everything you need in our extensive online shop. Add your desired products to your cart, and our team will do the heavy lifting by delivering your swing set directly to your home. Your new playground awaits! Shop today.
