FAQs About Swing Set Maintenance

A swing set provides children with hours of entertainment in their own back yards; however, routine maintenance of a swing set is often overlooked after it is purchased. Proper care extends the useful life of a swing set and ensures that it remains safe for decades. Read these FAQs about swing set maintenance to learn more about this important subject.

Q: How do you maintain metal swing sets?

A: Start by loosening and tightening each screw and bolt, and replace any that are worn or missing. Check the metal swing set for rust spots, and scrub any rust spots away with steel wool or a stiff brush. Consider coating the affected area with a quick spray of Rust-Oleum to prevent future rust from forming.

Q: How do you maintain wooden swing sets?

A: Caring for wooden swing sets starts with sanding any rough components. After sanding, apply a stain or a clear sealer if desired. This keeps rain water out and prevents rotting and pitting. Apply a new coat of sealer once a year.

Q: How do you maintain ropes, chains and other accessories?

A: Inspect ropes and chains every couple of months. Replace any ropes or chains that show signs of wear before they break and cause injury. Plastic parts on swing sets wear out quickly and need replacing every couple of years. Do not wait until they break to do so.