05-10-2008, 02:41 AM
I've built a couple of them but it's been a few years
They are not hard to build if you have very basic skills -
- can measure and cut wood
- can use a framing square
- can use a level
- can drive a nail, drill a hole, use a wrench to tighten a bolt
I don't know that you really need "plans" per say - just need a plan
Look at the one you like and get rough measurements and from there you can figure out a materials list.
Use galvanized or stainless steel fasteners and treated lumber
Use a belt sander to knock off the sharp edges that will be splinters if you don't
Start small - tower / slide / sandbox base. You can always add the swing set arm later.
The "just add lumber" kits might be a deal if you need all the related stuff (swings , slide, etc ...)
Price it out separate to be sure you aren't buying stuff you will not use.
Treated wood looks pretty good if you stain it the second year
The one's that we built lasted 15+ years with a little maintenance every few years.
added -
> I don't have tons of room
If you have swings you will need some "runway" area
The tire swing is a good option (don't use real tire) because it is not a "jump from" swing
* Full disclosure - I started Mr Big Stuff on his road to ruin giving him a basic materials list
and pointed to basic plans for his shed. We haven't heard from him in awhile !
: -)
They are not hard to build if you have very basic skills -
- can measure and cut wood
- can use a framing square
- can use a level
- can drive a nail, drill a hole, use a wrench to tighten a bolt
I don't know that you really need "plans" per say - just need a plan
Look at the one you like and get rough measurements and from there you can figure out a materials list.
Use galvanized or stainless steel fasteners and treated lumber
Use a belt sander to knock off the sharp edges that will be splinters if you don't
Start small - tower / slide / sandbox base. You can always add the swing set arm later.
The "just add lumber" kits might be a deal if you need all the related stuff (swings , slide, etc ...)
Price it out separate to be sure you aren't buying stuff you will not use.
Treated wood looks pretty good if you stain it the second year
The one's that we built lasted 15+ years with a little maintenance every few years.
added -
> I don't have tons of room
If you have swings you will need some "runway" area
The tire swing is a good option (don't use real tire) because it is not a "jump from" swing
* Full disclosure - I started Mr Big Stuff on his road to ruin giving him a basic materials list
and pointed to basic plans for his shed. We haven't heard from him in awhile !
: -)