grass

November 28, 2011

Wooden Swingset on Grass Versus Wood Chips?

garden swing bench Wooden swingset on grass versus wood chips?

We bought my son (2) a wooden swing/play set. I have seen these set up on both grass and also wood chips. I would like opinions on which is preferable and why. also if you think wood chips are the way to go, do you have information on what I need to do to make a wood chip area (I have a lawn) and also is it uncomfortable for bare feet? with grass, would I need to treat the wood with something special since sprinklers would be hitting it every day (the wood has been 'stained' already)? thanks everyone!

Go with grass, the wood chips bring a lot more bugs than grass does and not to mention a higher risk of termites that can eat the swing set. Grass will hurt less if your son accidently falls off the swing and easier to maintain.

I wouldn't use wood chips, primarily because it would cause splinters and serious abrasions if your son fell.

There are new products specifically designed for use beneath play ground equipment—I think it is made from old tires, so it is cushiony, does not break down or need replaced, doens't stain, etc.

If you don't want to spend the money, stick with lawn and treat your wood.

I would not recommend the wood chips. I work at a school and we have wood chips on our playground. There are so many reasons why I hate them. first, they aggravate allergies because mold tends to grow in them. Second, they hurt when the kids fall on them. They get all scraped up. last, they get into your shoes and poke your feet. I've been poked hard several times by them and it has bled. you would not be able to walk on them with bare feet, it would be very uncomfortable.

The downside of grass is that it can get worn away if the set is used heavily, especially at the bottom of the slide, under swings, etc…Then you end up with mud. also, it is a chore to mow around the set and trim around all those darn posts!! The good thing is that it is cheaper. if you choose to put some other material down, I would suggest using wood landscape timbers to form a wall around the area to hold everything in. I think there are many different choices in wood chips available, and one that would work well for you. go to a landscape place and see what they suggest.

Wooden swingset on grass versus wood chips?