Constructing a wooden swing set requires decisions to be made about the type of wood you are going to use. The recommended wood for durable swing sets is pressure treated pine. This type is fine if the swing set is for older children, but is not for use by small children who have a tendency to put everything in their mouths. The pine is treated with chemicals that are poisonous.
An alternative to using pressure treated lumber is a plastic-coated lumber designed for durability and usage. The parts to join and attach the various components are made from steel or lumber. California Redwood and Cedar are also types of wood used in construction of swing sets.
Many parents would prefer wooden swing sets over metal ones because of the way they look and feel, Metal tends to give a cold impersonal feeling, whereas wood is warm and cozy. Wooden swings have a better ambiance in a natural setting and their construction is often a family activity, especially in a city where everything tends to be made of steel and concrete. Swing sets made of wood do not get as hot during the hot weather, so there is less chance of children burning themselves on the material. Wooden sets are also able to hold approximately fifty pounds more than metal sets.
Wooden swing sets must be maintained regularly to keep them splinter free. Different colour wood stains are available to help the wood last longer and to prevent insect infestation or dry rot.
