When we first moved in to our current home, we decided that we really needed a playset complete with swings, slide and climbing apparatus. Of course, it couldn’t be just any play system. After doing a lot of research, my husband declared that only a Rainbow Systems play set would do. It was actually the only one that we had really been exposed to, so we really have nothing else to compare it to. It could be that other systems are better, probably cheaper.
We visited the showroom, stood firm against the upgrades and declared the system that we wanted. We even put down a deposit for it and had a delivery date. When it turned out that we couldn’t get the space in the backyard cleared in time (our house stood, literally, in the middle of the woods), we had to cancel. Naturally the kids were disappointed at the delay.
The next time we went looking, money was a bit more tight, so we explored other options.
Buying a new off-brand system that we would have to install ourselves. Home improvement and even warehouse grocery stores sell various pieces that you can select to essentially build your own set. Need a rock wall, pick that up. Extra swings? You’ll need another arm plus the swings themselves. By going with this method, you’ll have to purchase some basic pieces but can then add on as your budget allows.
Buying a used set on Craiglist: This is the way that we eventually went. We bought a set that another family had outgrown. It wasn’t all shiny and new, but it was sturdy. These things seem indestructible. The previous owner also threw in a higher quality sandbox and an outdoor playhouse, too. If you buy used, be prepared to dissemble, deliver and reassemble the system yourself. The previous owners may help. You can also hire Rainbow Systems to do it for a fee, if you purchase that brand.
Getting a swing set or play system for free. Both Craigslist and freecycle may offer swing sets and play systems for free. You will probably be solely responsible for getting it off of the property, and it may need repair work.
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