Plastic vs Wood Swing Sets

Research goes a long way when adding a brand-new swing set to your home or playground. Understanding the difference between plastic vs wood swing sets affects everything from installation to long-term durability.

Each material has benefits and drawbacks to consider. For example, wood requires extra maintenance and upkeep but offers a unique aesthetic that blends well with rustic backdrops. Conversely, plastic is easy to maintain and weather-resistant, but can be more challenging to customize.

We’ll cover everything you need to know in this guide. You’ll learn how to choose the best material for your family or community, including both short- and long-term considerations.

You’ll find the best selection of heavy-duty swing sets for residential and commercial use here at Swing Set Mall. We’ve helped thousands of families and park managers over the last 3 decades.

We offer over 1000 products, including a diverse collection of playground and backyard swing sets, slides, monkey bars, and other accessories. We also offer a 30-day price-matching guarantee and speedy shipping across the USA. Contact us anytime with questions you may have about playground equipment!

Pros and Cons of Plastic Swing Sets

Let’s take a look at each half of the plastic vs wood swing sets debate individually. We’ll start with plastic sets. Note that many sets use plastic combined with other materials. For example, the Lifetime Big Stuff Swing Set combines high-density polyethylene (HDPE) with powder-coated steel.

Pros

• Low-maintenance beyond occasional hosing or wiping down
• Excellent weather resistance when using HDPE
• No splinters or heat risk compared to wood or metal swing sets
• Relatively lightweight, making it easy to assemble and move
• Vibrant color options and customization
• Reasonably priced
• Rounded and smoothed surfaces make for a safe play area

Cons

• Aesthetics aren’t ideal for rustic backdrops
• Can accumulate heat without proper shade
• Some surfaces (e.g., towers) are challenging to customize years down the line

Pros and Cons of Wood Swing Sets

Let’s switch gears to the other half of the plastic vs wood swing sets debate. Wood swing sets come in several different cuts, from cedar and pine to sturdy redwood. They’re absolutely stunning, but this comes at the cost of additional maintenance requirements. 

Pros

• Natural beauty that creates an organic and rustic feel
• Stability that won’t wobble or shift when properly installed
• Customization is simple, including staining, painting, and adding on platforms
• Temperature regulated; mitigates the risk of heat during summer hours
• Renewable and eco-friendly
• Longevity when maintained properly

Cons

• Maintenance can be overwhelming. Annual sealing and staining, inspecting for rot, sanding down splinters, and replacing boards are all required
• The weather has a massive impact on wood sets. Rain, moisture, snow, heat, and UV rays can all damage your swing set. Mold, mildew, and rot are inevitable without proper maintenance
• Splinters are inevitable
• Insect damage from bees, termites, ants, and beetles can compromise structural integrity
• Higher upfront and long-term costs. Sealants, sanding equipment, repair tools, and professional assistance can cost an extra $1,000+ in maintenance over the set’s lifetime
• Installation is difficult. Relocating the set after installation is also tricky due to its weight and construction
• Safety concerns over the long term due to structural integrity issues

Plastic vs Wood Swing Sets: Which is Right For You?

You’ll want to consider your unique needs when weighing plastic vs wood swing sets. Consider the dimensions of your outdoor area, your budget, and how much time you want to spend on upkeep.

The Aesthetic Side of Things

Looks are subjective to an extent, but they are still a reliable way to compare plastic vs wood swing sets.

Wood swing sets have a natural appeal. Cedar, pine, and redwood reflect wonderfully in many outdoor spaces. They create an organic vibe that gives the swingset a classic and timeless feel. Keep in mind that wood swing sets require extra upkeep, however. You’ll need to keep up with staining and sanding to maintain the same appearance.

Plastic swing sets are appealing in their own right. HDPE sets often feature vibrant colors, such as the Lifetime Adventure Tunnel Play Set. They serve as a lovely backdrop for imaginative play. Many swing sets offer customization options when you place an order, so you don’t have to worry about painting it yourself.

Overall, this category boils down to your personal preference. Wood swing sets have a slight advantage for creating an organic feel, while plastic is better suited to bright designs.

Longevity and Structural Strength

Longevity is one area that many homeowners and park managers get wrong.

At first glance, it may seem like there’s a clear answer regarding the durability of plastic vs wood swing sets. You don’t typically think of plastic as a sturdy, long-term option in other areas.

However, it all comes down to the quality of plastic. Yes, a cheap, flimsy add-on to an inferior swing set may break easily. But the best plastic swing sets are made of HDPE, a durable material used in industrial settings.

HDPE is UV- and weather-resistant, meaning it won’t crack, warp, or rot like wood. It also has functionally no maintenance requirements, save for an occasional hosing or wipe-down. A high-quality plastic set can last up to 2 decades with ease.

Wood swing sets have varying lifespans depending on the type of lumber used. Low-quality pine might only last 7 years, while redwood or cedar can reach 20 years.

However, wood swing sets require the most maintenance of any swing set material. You have to seal or stain it annually, check for warping and rot, and sand down any splinters. It’s a constant chore that you have to prepare for before installing it on your property.

One final note: if you prefer wood swing sets overall, you may get better mileage by investing in a vinyl set. Vinyl features a wood base and a vinyl exterior, providing long-term durability without the risk of rot or insect damage. 

However, despite the differences in vinyl swing sets vs wood equipment, both are more expensive relative to their lifespans than plastic or metal sets.

Safety and Stability in Daily Use

Aesthetics and long-term value are important factors. But safety is paramount in the plastic vs wood swing sets debate.

The good news is that both materials are safe and stable. Wood swing sets have high weight capacities and won’t wobble or shift easily. They are better suited for handling multiple children simultaneously.

However, wood swing sets are prone to splinters. A pointy wood shard can be traumatic to a kid, so you need to be especially vigilant.

Plastic swing sets are stable. They are lighter, but won’t sway with anchoring. Plastic is less likely to retain heat than metal swing sets, which is why many brands use a combination of the two materials. You also don’t have to worry about rot or splinters.

Maintenance Demands Across the Seasons

When we look at the differences between plastic and metal vs wood swing sets, the upkeep requirements stand out.

Plastic is simple to maintain. Hose it down if you see dirt or pollen build up. You don’t have to worry about winterizing, staining, sealing, sanding, or constant inspections. Plastic gives you the lowest costs, both in terms of money and time.

And then there’s wood swing sets. They are a never-ending project. You have to apply a fresh sealant or stain at least once a year, typically in the summer. This takes time and will prevent kids from enjoying the set. You also need to inspect the set for damage, rot, and insects at least once a month.

In the winter, you have to cover the swing set in frigid weather. Otherwise, the wood may deteriorate just from freezing conditions. You should also tighten all hardware, as climate changes can jostle screws and bolts.

Meanwhile, you’re constantly sanding each surface in a permanent battle against splinters. All of this maintenance is incredibly time-consuming and may require specialized equipment. You won’t really want to contract this out to a professional, either, unless you have a few thousand dollars to burn over the course of the set’s lifespan.

Size, Expandability, and Add-On Options

Wood swing sets are slightly more customizable than plastic equipment. They require more upfront skill for installation as a trade-off.

For example, you can add a climbing wall by bolting one onto existing support structures. Many wooden swing sets have room for expansions and accessories. It’s also easier to build a DIY swing set from wood, though it still requires professional skills and equipment for a safe, stable result.

Plastic swing sets are customizable, too. You can swap in new types of swings, provided you consider free clearance areas in all directions. There are plenty of size options available for both plastic and wood sets, so you can choose one that best fits your outdoor area.

Don’t stress too much about future add-ons, though. You can also install any play structures near the playset, like monkey bars, tire swings, and climbing domes. Just make sure you follow the guidelines for safe landing zones (typically a minimum of 6 feet in each direction from the structure).

Overall Cost and Long-Term Value

Plastic sets win in terms of price tag upfront and over the long term. They are more affordable than wood swing sets, since they aren’t typically custom-built. Plus, plastic sets require virtually no maintenance.

Wood swing sets are more expensive and require tools such as sandpaper, sealants, and paint for upkeep. Most wood sets have similar lifespans to plastic, meaning you don’t even get long-term value.

The Perfect Swing Set For Your Home or Park is a Click Away!

After going through the research, you’re ready to add a fantastic swing set to your property. Plastic swing sets are a winner across several key categories, including cost, durability, upkeep, and safety. HDPE is an industrial-strength material. When you pair it with powder-coated steel, you get the best of both worlds.

That’s why we carry several excellent options here at Swing Set Mall. We curate our inventory from reputable brands like Lifetime, Component Playgrounds, SportsPlay Equipment, and more. We prioritize sets that deliver safety, fun, aesthetic value, and long-term durability. We offer customization options on several sets to help you match the surrounding architecture.

Our family-owned business has helped grandparents, school districts, park managers, and new parents find the perfect outdoor equipment for their children. We’re happy to help you, so don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have!

You’ll find over 1,000 products in our online store, including swing seats, swing set accessories, tools, and complete sets. We also offer free shipping on orders over $150 and a 30-day price matching guarantee.

Parting Thoughts on Plastic vs Wood Swing Sets

Wooden swing sets aren’t a bad option on paper. They offer a stable play experience and blend well in rustic settings. However, many homeowners and property managers are shocked when they realize the upkeep and costs involved.

A wood set may leave you with more than you intended between splinters, staining, sanding, and fending off rot.

We recommend plastic sets for that reason. They require minimal upkeep, are weather-resistant, and offer customization options to meet your aesthetic desires.

You’ll find the best collection of metal and HDPE plastic swing sets at Swing Set Mall. We hand-picked our inventory to include the most durable, safe, affordable, and fun playground equipment.

Join thousands of homeowners and park managers who trusted us. Our friendly team is here to help you turn your outdoor play space into the backdrop of countless memories.