Adding a swing set to your playhouse gives your kids even more fun to enjoy in the back garden. A playhouse with swing set is an exciting play space that will capture your kids’ imaginations, offering countless hours of fun.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step involved in adding a swing set to your kids’ playhouse. From the initial prep stages to the final steps of securing, and inspecting the set-up, we’ll cover all of the essentials.
Whether you’re building a playhouse that has a swing set provided with it, or you’re adding a swing set to your existing playhouse, this article will tell you everything you need to know about adding a swing to your kids’ playhouse. By following these instructions, you can turn your back garden into a safe and enjoyable play area.
Choosing the Right Playhouse and Swing Set Combination
Before starting the installation, it is important to choose the right playhouse and swing set for your garden and your kids.
From metal swing sets to wooden swing sets, there is a range of sets on the market, each offering different features and benefits. When choosing a playhouse with swing or an integrated play set, think about the space in your garden and the children that will be using the swing.
A playhouse with an integrated swing set is an all-in-one package, whilst a separate swing set can be added to an existing playhouse for more flexibility.
Preparing Your Outdoor Space
Once you’ve decided which playhouse and swing set you are going for, proper preparation is the next step.
Choose a flat and level area in your garden that is clear of fences, trees or other structures. There needs to be enough clearance room around the playhouse and swing for your kids to play safely.
You should also think about the ground in your garden and the weather conditions in your area. Make sure you don’t put the playhouse and swing set somewhere that is prone to flooding or standing water, as this can impact the stability of the ground.
A flat, well-draining area is the best place to build your playhouse and swing set, for safety and also for the durability of the playground equipment.
Assembling the Playhouse and Swing Set
Now that you’ve chosen the playhouse and you’ve picked the location, you can start collecting the tools and materials you need for assembling.
Typically, you’ll need a drill, screws, anchors, a level and maybe concrete if you want to create a more stable base.
Carefully lay out all the parts before you start building, so you can double-check you have everything you need. Then, read through the assembly instructions to get started. Each playhouse/swing set will have a slightly different set-up process, so follow the instructions carefully. Then, you can start assembling the playhouse according to the instructions.
If the swing set is not pre-attached to the playhouse, you must position and attach it separately. Put the swing set in the right location relative to the playhouse, ensuring it aligns correctly with the pre-drilled holes or mounting points.
Use the provided hardware to secure the swing set to the playhouse, making sure that all bolts and screws are tightened securely. After attaching everything, check the swing set to ensure it’s secure. There shouldn’t be any wobbling or insecurity, so make any adjustments you need to.
Anchoring the Playhouse for Maximum Stability
Anchoring the playhouse is an important step for ensuring it’s stable and safe.
For most playhouses and swing sets, ground anchors are essential. Without ground anchors the constant swinging can move the swing set around, making it less stable and potentially even loosening parts. Use metal or plastic anchors (depending on your soil type) and install them according to the manufacturer’s guidelines, typically at each corner of the playhouse.
If you live in an area with soft soil, or where extra stability is required, think about using concrete footings:
- Dig holes for the footings
- Mix and pour the concrete into the holds
- Allow it to set
- Attach the swingset to the now secured footings
To protect your little ones you should also regularly inspect the anchors, footings, and overall structure, to ensure it stays safe. Any problems should be addressed as quickly as possible.
Adding Elements to the TP Treehouse Play Tower
Adding extra elements to your playhouse, as well as a swing set, can make the experience even more exciting for your little ones.
If you have one of our wooden playhouses, like our TP Treehouse Play Tower, you can add:
- A wavy slide for bouncy thrills
- A fireman's pole for an exciting way to exit the playhouse
- A climbing net, so your kids can get up to the top deck of the playhouse
- A basketball net so your kids can shoot hoops outside of their playhouse
- A rock climbing wall which will help your kids with balance, coordination and strength
Just make sure any attachments that you purchase are safe and compatible with your kids’ playhouse.
Final Safety Checks and Maintenance
Once you’ve chosen your playhouse, picked a spot in the garden, prepped your outdoor space, built your playhouse, and added any extras you have chosen, give the construction a final once over before you let your kids go wild.
Test the swings, and the structure, make sure there are no loose parts or sharp edges, and also give it a regular once over now and then in the future. It’s also a great idea to give your kids some ground rules, for safe play.
Conclusion
Adding a swing set to a playhouse can enhance your outdoor space, giving children a fun and safe environment to play outdoors. By carefully choosing the right playhouse and swing set combination, preparing your outdoor space, following step-by-step assembly and anchoring instructions, and adding elements, you can create a play area that offers both enjoyment and peace of mind.
Prioritise maximum safety with regular inspections and proper maintenance to make sure your kids’ outdoor playhouse and swing set is a safe space for years to come.
