Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

PLAYSETS

 

There are so many different play sets. How do I know which one to choose?

When choosing a play set it is important to consider a few questions.

 

How are your play sets different from what is sold at big box retail stores and from online retailers?

Though they may appear nice, the play sets sold at big box retail stores and online retail outlets are constructed from thin and small dimension lumber. Many of the 4×4 and 4×6 beams from these play sets are made from what we term as “popsicle stick lumber.” These big beams are made by gluing small strips of lumber together. This “popsicle stick lumber” coupled with small hardware and cheap slides will lead to a play set that is rickety after a short period of time. Many of our “high end” competitors use this same type of construction.

 

I see other play sets with posts and beams that are wrapped in colored plastic. What is this?

Some play set manufacturers wrap their lumber in plastic. This is called encapsulated lumber. This is done as a cost cutting measure. The lumber used inside of the plastic is not insect or decay resistant wood. Therefore, it is less expensive. However, when wood is wrapped in plastic, the plastic can trap moisture. This can lead to rot and decay from the inside. Another disadvantage is the inability to inspect the wood. These posts may form cracks which may lead to structure failure. Also, many of these encapsulated lumber posts are not made from solid lumber. They may be manufactured by gluing or bolting several pieces of wood together.

 

My yard is unlevel. Can you accommodate for a sloped yard?

Yes we can. All of our play sets are designed to adjust for some amount of slope. Though, some of our play sets are more adjustable than others. Please check the job photos page of our web site for examples of some play sets on sloped yards. There is not much we cannot do.

 

I have a small backyard. Do you have a play set that will fit my yard?

If you believe that space is a concern, we encourage you to take some simple measurements of your yard and contact us. All of our play sets are customizable and configurable. We have many different models and configurations that will fit most any yard.

 

How much space is recommended around my play set?

We recommend a six foot perimeter around all sides of the play set. If you do not have room for this safe perimeter, please contact us. We can help you choose a play set that will fit safely in your yard.

 

What if I move? Can I take a play set with me?

Yes. If you move, you can take any of our play sets with you. Also, we offer a service to move the play set for you for an additional fee.

 

Do your play sets require staking or anchoring to the ground?

Unlike cheap play sets sold at mass retailers, none of our play sets require staking or anchoring to the ground.

 

What type of wood are your play sets made of?

All of our play sets are made from redwood and/or cedar. Redwood and cedar are ideal for use in outdoor applications due to their natural decay and insect resistant properties. Beware of chemically treated lumber.

 

What kind of maintenance is required for the play set?

As with any outdoor wooden structure, we recommend that you clean and stain the play set periodically. This will keep the play set attractive and in peak condition. The frequency with which this needs to be done will vary based on weather, site conditions, and amount of use. Generally speaking, most play sets should be cleaned and stained about once every two years. We also, suggest that you inspect all hardware prior to every use, and tighten through bolts if necessary.

 

I do not see any pricing for the Woodplay play sets. Why is this?

Due to manufacturer’s restrictions, we cannot post pricing on our website. Please contact us, and we’ll send you a complete price list. Also, if you find a lower price on an identical item, we’ll match it.

 

How long does it take to get my play set once it is ordered?

Variables, such as, manufacturing, shipping dates, and installation availability factor into the turn-around time for the play set. As a general rule, most play sets can be installed within 3-5 weeks from the order date. However, if it is in stock, we can typically install it within 1-2 weeks. In some instances, we have installed it the next day.

 

Do your play sets have weight limits?

Though all play sets have a weight limit, all of our play sets are made well enough for Mom and Dad to enjoy with the kids. However, some of our “lighter weight” play sets will exhibit more movement than our “heavy duty” ones when adults play on them.

 

BASKETBALL GOALS

 

Many basketball goals look the same. What is the difference between yours and what I can purchase from a sporting goods store?

Aside from the obvious differences in appearance, most differences are in things you cannot see or would not notice. Things like the size of the pole, how many pieces is the pole made from, the thickness of the steel, and thickness of the glass are important differences in the basketball goals we sell and others found at mass retailers. Our most popular models have one-piece poles, 7 gauge steel (thickest in the industry), and regulation ½” tempered glass backboards.

 

What is the right basketball goal for my family?

Depending on the ages of the children, player’s skill level, and site conditions, there are many different things to consider when choosing the right hoop. Here are some of features to consider:

 

What is the right size backboard for me?

For casual, recreational play, any size will do fine. For very small driveways and areas, 54 inch backboards may be the best option. Our most popular size backboard is 60 inches. For true size, competitive play, regulation 72 inch backboards are best.

 

How long does it take to get my basketball goal once it is ordered?

Factors such as, installation availability, product availability, and underground utility markings have a bearing on the turn around time. Generally, the process is something like this:

 

The utility companies will mark your area within 3 business days of your purchase.

The contractor can typically set the anchor system in concrete within 1-3 days of the markings.
The pole and backboard can be assembled 1-3 days after the concrete has set.
Typically, if the goal is in stock, you can play on your hoop in 7-10 days.

 

How are your basketball goals secured to the ground?

All of our basketball goals are anchored 4′ deep in concrete.

 

What if I move? Can I take the goal with me?

Absolutely! All of our goals can be removed from the anchor system and relocated to your new home. A new anchor system is all that is required.

 

TRAMPOLINES

 

 

Why are your trampolines more expensive than what is sold elsewhere?

Everything that goes into the trampoline is of a higher quality. The steel is thicker, there are more and longer springs, the padding is thicker and more UV resistant, and the net is stronger. Many of the trampolines we sell are to people that previously spent $300 – $500 on a trampoline from an online or mass retailer. These trampolines typically last 1-2 years before the net collapses and the padding disintegrates.

 

What are the weight limits on your trampolines?

There are many different factors that determine the weight rating of a trampoline. The thickness of steel, quality of springs, and number of springs are just a few of these factors. Most cheap trampolines have a weight rating of around 200 lbs. Our most popular models have weight ratings between 245 and 330 lbs. with real world combined weight of over 800 – 1100 lbs.

 

My yard is un-level. How can you accommodate for a sloped yard?

Although a flat area is best for a trampoline, we can accommodate for some slope by using build up material on the downhill side of the slope. Depending on the amount of slope and required material, additional charges may apply. For most yards, additional charges are not necessary.

 

I have a small yard. How much space is necessary for the trampoline?

Depending on the particular trampoline, the amount of recommended room will vary. Most trampolines need about a 3′ safety perimeter. We have many different sizes and shapes to suit almost any yard.

 

How long does it take to get trampoline once it is ordered?

Many variables, such as, manufacturing, shipping dates, and installation availability can factor into the turn-around time for the trampoline. We have many trampolines in stock. As a general rule, most trampolines can be installed within 1-2 weeks from the order date. In some instances, we have installed it the next day.

 

SAFETY SURFACING

 

Should I consider using a safety surface under my play set?

Absolutely. Most playground injuries are the result of falls from the equipment. We recommend a resilient surface under your play set to reduce the likelihood of injuries. The safety surfacing has a secondary benefit of making it easier to maintain your yard around your play set.

 

What type of safety surfacing should I use?

Depending on the type and depth of material, many loose fill materials will provide a resilient surface. Rubber mulch and playground wood chip mulch are the most common materials. Wood chip mulch is the most cost effective on the front end, but it can be more expensive long term. Rubber mulch has many advantages: