The Family team at lifestyle concierge can help source play equipment, give you some great ideas for fun in the garden and advise on domestic safety, so contact them if you’d like assistance. Here are their tips on things you need to know before you buy.
Location and materials
‘When it comes to choosing outdoor play equipment for your children, the first thing to consider is where to put it,’ says Allison Crisp, one of our family experts. Swings and outdoor gyms require a fairly large, level piece of ground, so you might need to have some groundwork done first. Small, moulded plastic sets don’t need as much space but they are only really suitable for children aged five and under. Our home and family experts will be happy to recommend the top-ranked sets to you and can even order pieces to be delivered to your home on your behalf.
‘If aesthetics are important, timber equipment will stand out less than brightly coloured plastics,’ Allison comments, ‘but for durability I would recommend metal-framed outdoor equipment, which requires very little upkeep.’ Alternatively, you could construct a trellis to section off the play area from the main garden, although this might make it difficult to supervise children at play.
Solid hardwood is the most durable wood for outdoor use, as it’s weather resistant and doesn’t require much maintenance. Play sets made from this are typically of good solid construction. Pine is another – usually cheaper – option, but be sure it isn’t the chemically-treated variety that can be harmful to children. Pine will also need regular weatherproofing with a sealer. Any equipment that needs painting should be done so with non-toxic and low-lead paint – if lead paint flakes, it can be inhaled and harmful to children.
Safety
‘All new garden play equipment should comply with European safety standard BS EN 1176,’ says Allison. If you’ve bought some equipment already and aren’t sure whether it does, let us know and we can find the information for you.
When selecting swing sets, check that they are age-appropriate (very small children will need a harness seat), are solid enough not to topple over, or can be secured to the ground. Some need to be set in concrete. ‘If there are two or more swings on the frame, they need to be spaced far enough apart to avoid collisions,’ Allison advises. If you’re unsure, we’ll be happy to arrange for someone to come over and assist you.
Slides should have side guards to prevent slipping off, as well as safety rails or a cover at the top of the ladder to prevent falls.
Gym play sets – all-in-one options that include various apparatus – are typically sold in age-appropriate sections. ‘Check that timber is smooth, that there are no bolts or hardware protruding from the construction and that any raw edges have covers,’ Allison advises.
Trampolines vary greatly in quality, which is usually reflected in the price. Things to look out for are sturdy springs, a galvanised (rather than zinc powder-coated) steel frame, thick, water-resistant pads that cover the springs and the edge of the frame and a non-abrasive mat. Mesh safety surrounds are available to help prevent falls. ‘Ask us for a list of our members’ favourite trampolines to help you decide which one will work best for your family,’ Allison comments.
Groundwork
As some falls are to be expected, the ground around play equipment needs to be clear of any objects such as fences. It should be covered with an impact-absorbing material, such as shredded rubber, mulch, sand or wood chips, which need to be kept about 30cm deep and extended two metres beyond the edges of the equipment. Poured rubber is another option, although a more expensive one. ‘We can provide landscape gardeners who are experienced in laying safety surfaces,’ says Allison.
Finally, before making a purchase, find out whether delivery and installation is included or offered – especially for larger equipment that may require a trailer to transport. If it’s not, we’ll be happy to take care of all the details for you.
