Ultimate Guide to choosing a swing set for your garden

How to Choose a Swing Set for Your Garden: The Complete Guide

Choosing a swing set might seem straightforward, but there is more to consider than simply choosing a frame that fits your garden.

The age of the children, the space available, the type of swing seat, the quality of the timber, the suspension system and how the swing will be installed can all make a difference.

There is also an important distinction between residential and commercial swing equipment.

Residential or Commercial: Which Type of Swing Do You Need?

The first thing to consider when choosing a swing is where it will be used.

A swing for a private family garden is different from a commercial swing installed at a school, nursery, pub, hotel, holiday park or public playground.

Residential swing sets

Residential swing sets are designed for private domestic use. They are available in different sizes and designs, including single and double swing frames and swing modules that can be incorporated into a climbing frame.

For a private garden, your main considerations will usually be:

• The age of the children.
• The space available.
• The type of swing seat.
• The quality and treatment of the timber.
• The ropes and other suspension components.
• The manufacturer’s weight limits.
• How the swing will be anchored.
• The surface underneath and around the equipment.

Commercial swing sets

Commercial swings are designed for a much higher level of use and must meet the requirements applicable to commercial play equipment, including EN1176.

Commercial swing seats use commercial-grade components and are generally suspended using chains, rather than the rope systems commonly found on residential swings. Commercial equipment also needs to be securely anchored into the ground in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation requirements, with appropriate impact-absorbing safety surfacing.

Commercial swing equipment can also be used in a private garden. Some families choose a commercial swing because they want a particularly robust system or want equipment designed for heavier or more demanding use.

At Active Garden, we supply both residential and commercial swing equipment, so if you are looking for a commercial-grade swing for your garden, you can find suitable options within our range.