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Metal or wooden playground equipment?
When it comes to designing a new playground, you have a choice to make – metal or wooden playground equipment. There are pros and cons to using either material for your new equipment, and we’re going to talk you though them.
Pros of metal playground equipment
There are lots of benefits to using metal playground equipment. Metal is long lasting and durable. You can be sure that any metal equipment will stand the test of time. It can take the battering of the UK weather and show no signs of wear.
Metal equipment is also able to withstand many years of play. No matter how many excited children run, jump, swing, climb and play on the equipment, it’ll last and remain pristine. You can also be certain of safety with children when they are playing on metal playground equipment too.
Metals are easily customisable too, so you’ll be able to get your perfect playground design.
Pros of wooden playground equipment
Wooden playground equipment is a fantastic choice, especially if you want to keep a more natural look for your play area. It offers children a chance to get closer to nature and encourages their interest in the natural world. We all know how difficult it is to get children off their screens and into the outdoors!
Wood is an incredibly popular playground material and is considered one of the safest available. It’s a very durable material and is cost effective to install and maintain. Properly treated and maintained, it can last for over a decade.
You also have a fantastic range of customisation options with wood. Our design team love bringing your ideas to life and getting creative with this brilliant material.
Cons of metal equipment
Metal is not a natural material so, if not sensitively installed, it has the potential to look unappealing in a natural setting. Many design elements can help overcome this, however, and in shopping centres and other built-up areas, metal equipment can be more in keeping with the design than wood.
Over time, if not treated properly, metal playground equipment can rust. This can compromise the equipment and will require a full replacement before children can safely use it again.
Metal play equipment can get very hot in summer or very cold in winter. The material reflects the temperature of the season, which can be uncomfortable to touch during play.
Cons of wooden equipment
Wooden playground equipment is easier to vandalise than metal. It is, however, very easy to clean or replace should the worst happen.
Treating wooden playground equipment is done with chemicals, which while perfectly safe, can worry some parents and care givers. It also requires regular maintenance to keep it in good working order.
Want to talk?
If you want to discuss options for your new playground, our expert team are on hand to discuss your ideas. We offer a free site survey and 3D design with every playground we work on and are bursting with creative ideas for your space
Interested in seeing what our designers can create for you?
Our team have years of experience planning and designing playgrounds. We can help you choose the equipment that best suits your requirements, budget and space.
Why not drop us a line today and get the ball rolling?
Get started today
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