How To Build An Outdoor Swing Set

Who else enjoys to make things with their own hands... an really makes them happen? Is that you? If so, you will enjoy the process of building an outdoor swing set - it's moderately challenging and very rewarding project. If you are not a real DIY enthusiast and your only intend is to save money, I still have good news for you - there are easy ways to build it and save money.

For beginners and people who don't want to spend their time cutting building in the backyard there are "ready to assemble" kits. Using such a kit isn't really building - it will take you a day, you have all the parts prepared and all you need to do is to assemble the kit. If you are really novice even this can be a bit challenging to you, but if you really want to build a swing set yourself, "assembling" does not at all cover the entire process.

The moderately complicated option is to get a "build-it-yourself" kit. These kits allow much more creativity in assembling and require more work. Usually they cost 50% or more less than the "ready to assemble" kits and the ready swing sets, but you need to carefully check what's included. Usually accessories aren't included which means you have to spend 1-2 times more money than the price of the kit is. Building your swing set with such a kit requires basic tools and woodworking skills and can take from several days to about a week.

What if you want to build your swing set really from scratch? No problem, that's is possible and not as hard as it may look. Here are few steps you need to follow:

1. Obtain building plans. Unless you really have experience and know how to design a swing set, don't try to do it. Trust the professionals and buy or download for free plans that are measured, calculated and tested. You can find such plans for free or buy a whole set with them for $10 - $15 - the investment is well worth it.

2. Prepare the ground. Swing sets usually don't need real foundations like other outdoor building projects but you still need to find a smooth and stable ground and dig the holes where the swing will be attached. Some projects will require small concrete foundations under the pillars but usually that can be avoided.

3. Get the required materials. You will need stocks, metal A-frame brackets, angle brackets, several different pressure treated boards, screws, eye-bolts, a saw, squares, carpeter's level and several other tools. If you want to build cushion swing you will need fabric and pillows.

4. Prepare the parts. The plan should contain detailed drawings of each parts and additional instructions. Try to follow as closely as possible otherwise you may have problems assembling the swing set.

5. Assemble the outdoor swing. You can work on the part at home or in your workshop, but the assembling must happen in place so you can attach the swing set to the ground. Try to follow the same sequence that is given in the plans.

6. Treat, paint and secure your swing set to the ground. Now you can be proud of it and let your children enjoy swinging outside.

By: Sandra De Charo

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It's great to build your own wooden swing set this way. Building from scratch is experience that have no equivalent - even if you are just building a simple tree swing!